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The Philadelphia Flyers take a big swing in the NHL Draft
The Philadelphia Flyers made a bold move in the NHL Draft by selecting Russian player Matvei Michkov with the No. 7 overall pick. This choice was considered to be risky due to Michkov’s uncertain playing status and his current contract in Russia until 2026. However, the Flyers were impressed by Michkov’s talent and his desire to be a part of the team.
General manager Daniel Briere announced the selection of Michkov during the draft in Nashville. He spoke highly of Michkov’s enthusiasm for joining the Flyers, mentioning that they had met with him multiple times and were convinced of his commitment to the team. Despite knowing that Michkov has three more seasons on his contract, the Flyers felt that his talent was too great to pass up.
Michkov himself expressed his excitement at being selected by Philadelphia. He stated that becoming a Flyer was a dream come true for him and that he hoped to join the NHL soon. Winning the Stanley Cup is also a major goal for Michkov.
An impressive player on the ice
Michkov is known for his skills on the ice. Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 172 pounds, he is considered a dynamic player. According to Elite Prospects’ NHL Draft Guide, Michkov is a triple-threat winger who is constantly dangerous around the net. His puck skills are highly praised, with his creativity, handling, and problem-solving abilities standing out. Michkov’s plays on the ice often leave viewers astounded.
The Flyers’ fortunate draft position
The Flyers were fortunate in the draft as no other team traded up to select Michkov before them. This allowed them to have their pick between Michkov and Ryan Leonard, who was described as a prototypical Flyer. While Michkov’s uncertain playing status was a concern, the Flyers ultimately decided to take the risk and draft him.
Rankings and previous coverage
Michkov received high rankings from various sources, including being ranked #4 by Consolidated Ranking, #4 by Eliteprospects.com, #3 by FCHockey, #4 by Flohockey/Chris Peters, #3 by Daily Faceoff, #4 by The Hockey News, #5 by TSN/Bob McKenzie, #5 by McKeen’s Hockey, #4 by TSN/Craig Button, #2 by NHL Central Scouting (EU Skaters), #5 by Sportsnet, #4 by HPR/Shane Malloy, #5 by Recruit Scouting, #3 by Dobberprospects, #3 by Draft Prospects Hockey, and #3 by Smaht Scouting.
For more information on Michkov, previous coverage can be found at Philly Hockey Now, including articles discussing the risk involved in drafting him and the Flyers’ willingness to trade up to secure him.
This draft choice marked Daniel Briere’s first as the Flyers’ general manager, and it certainly made a statement about his vision for the team’s future.
