For many Flyers fans, one of the most eagerly anticipated aspects of the 2024-25 season was the debut of Matvei Michkov, affectionately named the "Mad Russian" by coaches and fans alike.
Regardless of the success the Flyers saw in maintaining a playoff spot in in 2023-24 season until a late-season collapse, devout fans are well aware that the orange and black are in the midst of a tumultuous rebuild. So, Michkov's arrival in the summer of 2024 was a somewhat unexpected bright point heading into this season.
To say the least, Michkov has shown his highly touted pedigree on the scoresheet, especially in high-pressure situations against some of the NHL's most elite talent. Some would say he has a flair for the dramatic, as some of his highlight reel goals have come in overtime and the shootout. With that being said, what are some aspects of #39's game that can be improved upon in the off-season before his sophomore season?
1. Conditioning/Power Skating
It's no secret that Michkov's endurance was not accustomed to playing NHL talent every other night in an 82-game season. He showed flashes of superb stamina in his transition game or during lengthy power-play shifts, but those bursts were not consistent or overtly noticeable.
Although he likely will never have McDavid-level speed, Michkov could benefit from a power-skating coach to aid him in reaching another "gear" in speed and overall skating skills. As far as stamina goes, one can assume with little doubt that Michkov will personally ensure his stamina is prepared for another NHL season after having his first full season under his belt.
2. Discipline
Michkov may be tied for the NHL rookies lead with 24 goals, but he's also at least ten penalty minutes ahead of the rest of the rookie class with 44 minutes served in the sin-bin through the 76 games he has played. Matvei plays with grit and tenacity in his game as well as a competitive temper.
Some were even surprised by this at the beginning of the season, as many rookies with his skill set don't possess such traits. However, his temper has gotten the better of him several times, and he has found himself in the box more than many would like (even if he has served many bench minors for the orange and black).
3. Cross-Ice Passes
Not unlike all NHL rookies, Michkov has attempted many cross-ice passes on breakouts in the defensive zone and neutral zone. This has led to turnovers and the opposing team cashing in on odd-man rushes. Most notably, this has especially hurt the Flyers in overtime. His "out of the box" thinking has been welcomed in the offensive zone, but making the simple play on breakouts in the defensive and neutral zones would be a welcome change to his game next year.
4. Sharp Angle Shots
We've all seen Michkov attempt to shoot from nearly every angle on the ice. In all honesty, he seems to take more shots from below the goal line than anyone has seen in recent memory. Although he does have a knack for finding the smallest of holes in goaltenders, these sharp-angle shots are rarely successful unless timed perfectly when a goaltender is in the RVH, also known as "Reverse Vertical Horizontal". An example of a goaltender being bitten by dropping to this position prematurely was Lane Huston's goal scored on Sam Ersson this weekend.
As Flyers fans witnessed this November, the statistical chances of success with these shots are low, but not zero. Michkov did score the overtime winner in Ottawa with a similar shot. Regardless, he should learn how to create more predictable and substantial scoring chances deep in the offensive zone.
Ridiculous.
— Pesky Sickos (@PeskySickos) November 15, 2024
Linus Ullmark upset with himself as Matvei Michkov puts this one in from the goal line.
5-4 #Flyers Final in OT. #Sens #GoSensGo pic.twitter.com/8ROWLhWwBw
5. Situational Awareness
We've seen Michkov attempt low-percentage shots in overtime and on the power play. However, when these shots miss the net, it ruins any offensive pressure gained and causes a change in possession in overtime. As he continues to be given ice time in these offensively focused game situations, it would be beneficial if he could be a bit more patient in ensuring the shot he is taking is worthwhile and accurate. After all, these are substantial growing pains for all NHL rookies throughout the league.
Although it may be difficult for some to understand, Michkov is only 20 years old and has shown over the past six months that he's able to react constructively to criticism and mistakes. By no means is he a finished product, but he should be proud of the fact that he's still in the conversation for the Calder Trophy this year, even on a team without much offensive depth and a horrendous power play.
With 59 points (24 G, 35 A, 7 PPG, 8 PPA) in 76 games, Michkov has proven he's worthy of having his name on thousands of jerseys that flood the Wells Fargo Center 41 nights a year. Maybe in the coming years, Philadelphians will even be treated to the spectacle of playoff hockey for the first time in seven years. Without a doubt, that journey will be spearheaded by #39.