NHL: Philadelphia Flyers at San Jose Sharks - Source: Imagn — HC John Tortorella makes feelings known about heated exchange with star rookie Matvei Michkov. (Image Source: Imagn)

HC John Tortorella makes feelings known about heated exchange with star rookie Matvei Michkov amid a season-low TOI against Isles

Modified Jan 31, 2025 10:40 GMT

Philadelphia Flyers coach John Tortorella shared his thoughts about a heated exchange with rookie Matvei Michkov during the Flyers' game against the NY Islanders on Thursday.

The incident occurred after the Flyers had allowed a goal with under 10 minutes left in the second period. with Simon Holmstrom putting the Islanders ahead 1-0. Tortorella felt that Michkov made an inappropriate move that contributed to the goal, leading to a confrontation between the two.

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John Tortorella emphasized the importance of Matvei Michkov's development. He refrained from detailing the specifics of their argument but made it clear that his decisions are made with the 20-year-old's development in mind.

"I've said all along here with him, we are so far ahead of the process with him being here this year, and that continues even tonight," Torts said. "We're trying to teach him how things are done, how things are done here, the things of understanding conduct of a pro, all the things you do to play.

"I'm not going to get involved in the situation, something on the bench tonight. I'm not going to give you specifics. You may not believe it, but it's for the right reason because we care about him," he added.

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Tortorella expressed confidence in Matvei Michkov's potential and affirmed his responsibility as a coach to help guide him through challenging situations.

Michkov logged only eight minutes and 30 seconds of ice time in the Flyers' 3-0 loss, which marked his lowest playing time since making his NHL debut earlier this season.

Despite the setback, Michkov has been a standout player for the Flyers, ranking second on the team in scoring, with 34 points, through 14 goals and 20 assists, in 51 games this season.

Matvei Michkov's Flyers lose fifth straight after defeat to Isles

On Wednesday, the Philadelphia Flyers hosted the New York Islanders at Wells Fargo Arena. The Islanders beat the Flyers 3-0 to hand them their fifth straight loss.

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Simon Holmstrom opened the scoring for the Islanders 10:02 into the first period. With less than three minutes to go in the period, Marc Gatcomb doubled the visitors' advantage.

Kyle Palmieri scored the winner for the Isles at 17:08 into the final period, extending the Isles' winning streak to six games. The Isles improved to 23-20-7 and fifth in the Metro Division.

Meanwhile, Matvei Michkov and the Flyers will hope to end their skid when they face the Colorado Avalanche (29-21-2) on Sunday.

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