Star Philadelphia Flyers forward Matvei Michkov doesn't lack supporters in and around the NHL these days, but he's just received even more big praise.
In a recent interview with Tatar-Inform, former Flyers prospect Maxim Sushko dished on Michkov, predicting a rise to super-stardom.
"I think [Michkov could become the face of the Flyers]. Philadelphia management loves Russian hockey players and is happy to invite them to the team," Sushko said.
"Matvei had a great debut season in Philadelphia. If he continues to progress, he will become the team’s main star in the future. It’s a pleasure to watch him and his game. I sincerely wish him a great career in the NHL."
For those who may not remember Sushko, the Belarusian forward was drafted 107th overall by the Flyers in 2017 and made his only two NHL appearances in Feb. 2021.
Flyers Coach Rick Tocchet Has Exciting, Simple Plan for Matvei MichkovNew Philadelphia Flyers head coach Rick Tocchet has revealed his simple, preliminary plan to get the most out of star rookie Matvei Michkov going forward. It's not rocket science.
And, while Sushko has been in the KHL since the 2022-23 season, his words about Michkov (and the Flyers, especially) carry significance as someone who has been there and seen that.
Michkov, 20, led all rookies in goals last season with 26, and also finished joint-second with Macklin Celebrini in rookie scoring (63 pts), trailing only Lane Hutson (66).
What comes next for the Flyers star remains to be seen, but it's reasonable to expect small improvements around the edges to bring him at or near 30 goals, 50 assists, and 80 points.
The addition of Trevor Zegras and, in due time, Jett Luchanko, will give Michkov more speed and support down the middle, allowing him to do new things.
Flyers' Matvei Michkov Dishes on Rookie Season: 'There Is No Limit to Perfection'Budding Philadelphia Flyers star Matvei Michkov had quite the strong rookie season in the NHL last year, but he's already looking ahead to bigger and better things in the future.
And new head coach Rick Tocchet is also prepared to let the Russian sensation do his thing, as he's said multiple times already this offseason.
Everything seems to be trending in the right direction for the young Michkov, but the next step will be executing and putting it on the ice next season.