Martin Lapointe now finds himself in an embarrassing situation as Matvei Michkov, selected after David Reinbacher in the 2023 draft, is preparing to join the NHL before the latter.
This reality contradicts the justifications of Lapointe, co-director of recruitment, who had highlighted the uncertainties surrounding Michkov to explain the choice of Reinbacher.
Indeed, during an interview with TVA Sports following the draft, Lapointe explained that the decision was not based on a direct evaluation of the talents of the two players, but rather on the many unknowns concerning the arrival of Michkov in the NHL.
“It’s certain that the fans would have liked a “sexy pick”, a guy who scores goals”he declared, affirming that despite Michkov’s undeniable talent, the possible three years of waiting had weighed heavily in the balance.
“We did not disdain his talent, he is very talented, competitive, works well at the bottom of the ice. In the other direction of the rink, it’s a little less good, but you live with your mistakes. But also, there were so many unknowns, three years of waiting, so we leaned towards David.
Lapointe also affirmed that the choice of Reinbacher was unanimous within the recruiting team.
“David, for us, was a very important player, he ticks all the boxes that a defender can bring to a hockey team, he will solidify our defense”he said, adding that Reinbacher had been on their radar for a long time and had gradually climbed their rankings over the months.
Unfortunately, the speed with which Michkov was released from his KHL contract to join the Flyers puts Lapointe in an uncomfortable, even humiliating position.
Montreal Canadiens fans and the majority of analysts who rate prospects are questioning the decision not to select Michkov, especially now that he will make his NHL debut ahead of Reinbacher, who will obviously be in Laval next season .
Lapointe, who spoke too much, must now face his words which haunt him today and the criticism concerning this serious error.
This situation shows how risky recruiting decisions can be and how quickly they can backfire on those who make them, especially when you don’t select the best player available.
Lapointe, tormented by this choice even if he will never want to admit it, will have to live with the weight of this decision and the expectations of fans who hoped to see an explosive offensive talent join the ranks of the Canadian.
While Michkov will create sparks in Philadelphia, Lapointe will have to hope that Reinbacher can become a top defenseman in the NHL
Otherwise, he will forever be known as the guy who told the media…that the risk was too great…
