Matvei Michkov continues to dazzle with highlight reel goals

During the 2024-25 season, Matvei Michkov has most definitely fed the appetite of many fans and analysts alike with his “flair for the dramatic”. With five game-winning goals (3 OT, 2 Shootout) beyond regulation, the young Russian is proving he can likely mature into the highly-anticipated all-star Flyers fans are badly craving.

Since returning from the NHL 4 Nations break, Michkov has found himself amid an offensive eruption. He was recently named the NHL’s February Rookie of the Month for the second time this season with 10 points in seven games played.

On Saturday night, the Flyers (surprisingly) rose to the occasion of beating the NHL-leading Winnipeg Jets on their home ice with a 2-1 shootout win. Another unexpected highlight of the victory was the absolutely stellar play from their backup netminder, Ivan Fedotov, who started his first game in nearly a month. Fedotov earned a .967 SV% after stopping 29/30 shots and all three of the Jets' attempts in the shootout. To Fedotov's credit, going head-to-head with one of, if not the best goalie in the NHL in Connor Hellebuyck is no easy feat for even the sharpest of goaltenders.

Michkov Magic

After 65 minutes of truly exciting, back and forth hockey, the Jets and Flyers headed to the infamous shootout that most of the hockey faithful call a "skills competition". Enter Michkov, a rookie who has shown that his skill repertoire is anything but predictable.

Starting at an average speed, Michkov veered wide to the right side, cut to the middle, then unleashed a convincing upper body fake before seamlessly pulling the puck to his backhand and beating Hellebuyck on his glove side. Similar to the highlights of Connor McDavid, the sequence can only truly be appreciated in slow motion. However, something tells me #37 in blue most definitely won't enjoy re-watching this play.

Earning his first "Hockey Night in Canada" towel, Michkov claimed he "closed his eyes" before releasing his backhand. Although he clearly didn't shut his eyes when he sniped a perfectly placed backhand, one can appreciate his seemingly humble attitude. After all, his on-ice celebrations are anything but humble due to his fierce, competitive nature. Needless to say, there's much more to come from #39 and Flyers fans are thrilled to be a part of the ride.