Matvei Michkov at risk of being scratched, says Flyers HC John Tortorella

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Nov 01, 2024 11:48 GMT

Philadelphia Flyers coach John Tortorella said rookie Matvei Michkov might be scratched in future games. NHL insider Adam Kimelman tweeted about Flyers coach John Tortorella benching rookie Matvei Michkov for part of the first period.

Tortorella benched Michkov for a few shifts due to poor defensive play. He explained his decision, saying:

“He may miss games, who knows? I don’t know what’s going to happen.” Tortorella sees this as part of Michkov’s learning process.

At 19, Michkov is adjusting to the NHL's speed and higher competition. He joined the Flyers in July after signing his entry-level contract and was drafted seventh overall in 2023.

Michkov has impressed early, with nine points (four goals, five assists) in 11 games. Michkov has shown his offensive skills, including three multi-point games and a two-goal night against the Edmonton Oilers. However, he has struggled in 5-on-5 play, with a plus-minus of -5 rating.

Tortorella described benching Michkov as a "teaching moment," noting he has been clear about expectations.

“If I think other guys are going and you’re struggling in certain situations and it’s repetitive, you’re gonna have to sit and watch,” he said.

Tortorella is confident Matvei Michkov will learn, but he expects accountability from the young player as he grows in the NHL.

Philadelphia Flyers won against the Blues with reduced TOI for Matvei Michkov

The Philadelphia Flyers earned a 2-1 win over the St. Louis Blues on Thursday at Wells Fargo Center. Garnet Hathaway scored first for the Flyers, breaking a 29-game goal drought at 11:12 in the first period. Samuel Ersson made 20 saves, keeping the Flyers in control.

The Blues tied it in the third period when Nathan Walker scored on a rebound. Bobby Brink regained the Flyers’ lead late in the period, scoring off a give-and-go with Joel Farabee. Coach John Tortorella was pleased with Brink's play.

"I'm happy for Bobby Brink," Tortorella said per NHL.com. "He has gone through a little bit of an up and down with me as far as the defensive part of the game, but the puck follows him. ... I think the play before he scores the goal, it's in traffic, and he just pushes it wide and goes to the net. It's a really good offensive play."

Matvei Michkov only played 13:56 and took one shot on goal. Tortorella has been limiting Michkov’s ice time, focusing on developing his defensive game.

With this win, the Flyers have won back-to-back games for the first time this season. The Flyers also blocked 24 shots, with key blocks from Rasmus Ristolainen and Noah Cates in the final minutes.