We can say that everything seems to be going well for Matveï Michkov with the Flyers in Philadelphia. The rookie had a very good training camp with seven points including three goals in just four games. Michkov is acclimating well to North American life and he even draws praise from his trainer John Tortorella!
This was also the subject of the conversation between Éric Hoziel and Greg Lanctot on BPM sport earlier today. This may be surprising when we know that Tortorella is known for being a strict and demanding coach with his players while Michkov has a reputation as a sometimes lazy player and spoiled child.
However, as the season begins, the honeymoon between Michkov and his coach still seems to be going well. Tortorella even wanted to calm expectations for the rookie by reminding journalists and fans that “Mishkov is not a savior, he is 19 years old.”
We were therefore entitled to question ourselves about the cohabitation between Torts and the Russian player. In the past, several recruits, particularly offensive players, have had difficulty developing to their full potential under the orders of the veteran. Tortorella demands a continuous 200-foot commitment from his players and if he’s not happy with the effort, he can publicly criticize even his star players.
Well, the coach says that he wants to leave room for Michkov to express himself on the ice, but he still reminds that he will monitor the length of his presences and his defensive withdrawals. How we can chase away the natural…
On the other hand, it’s still refreshing to see the Flyers coach display this kind of enthusiasm for his young player, especially when we know that the team and its general manager, Daniel Brière, have a lot of hope in Michkov .
The Russian’s arrival in North America just one year after his draft surprised many and the Flyers could make several teams, including the Canadiens, regret having passed on the one who was ultimately drafted seventh overall.
We can wonder if the management of the Flyers asked their coach to give favorable treatment to its recruit in order to promote their adaptation and development. Or maybe Tortorella feels he has to deliver results this year (which means making the playoffs) and he wants to give himself all the tools necessary to go for victories.
In short, it’s going to be an interesting story to follow this season!
In burst
– The top 10 NHL players.
– The ceremony is canceled because of the hurricane.
– A brief but notable stint with the Expos.
– Rain doesn’t scare Snoop!
