© Photo by Len Redkoles/NHLI via Getty Images

VOORHEES, N.J. — Matvei Michkov understands the massive expectations that come with him joining the Philadelphia Flyers.

But, the sole focus of the 19-year-old forward is onl

“I am solely focused on winning,” Michkov expressed through a translator during Wednesday’s practice session at the Flyers facility. “My primary goal is to contribute towards the team’s victory. By playing my own style, I am determined to ensure triumph.”

Michkov is known for his high-skill offensive playing style. During his loan spell with Sochi in the Kontinental Hockey League last season, he managed to accumulate an impressive 41 points (19 goals, 22 assists) in just 47 games. This made him the top scorer among all under-20 players in the KHL.

After a disappointing season where Philadelphia ranked 27th in the NHL for scoring (2.82 goals per game) and placed last in power play efficiency (12.2 percent), the team is in dire need of an offensive boost. Their struggles resulted in finishing four points behind the Washington Capitals, missing out on the second wild card spot for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the Eastern Conference. This marked the fourth consecutive season in which Philadelphia failed to qualify.

However, general manager Daniel Brière is adamant that Michkov is just one piece of a larger puzzle that leads to the Flyers’ return to championship contention.

Briere clarified that they do not view him as a savior, emphasizing that they are not burdening him with such expectations. Recognizing his young age, their intention is for him to grow and develop his skills. While they have high hopes for his potential, they are not placing the responsibility of saving the team solely on his shoulders. Their focus is on constructing a team that functions cohesively, with multiple contributors. Ultimately, they aspire for him to become an integral part of this collective effort.

Michkov surprised the Flyers by joining their team earlier than anticipated. Despite having a three-year contract with SKA St. Petersburg, Philadelphia selected him as the No. 7 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft.

However, the last two seasons of that contract were ended on June 25th. Subsequently, Michkov proceeded to sign a three-year entry-level contract with the Flyers on July 1st.

Michkov expressed that while the process was lengthy, he had no direct involvement in it as it primarily concerned SKA and the Flyers. His focus primarily revolved around preparing himself to transition and play in his current location, thus remarking on his immense joy of being present there.

Briere mentioned that the Flyers had initially planned to wait until 2026 for Michkov’s arrival, but they are now thrilled to have him join them earlier than expected.

Briere expressed surprise at the current situation, stating that they did not anticipate it when they selected him last year. They believed he would have been chosen much earlier, but they were fortunate to be able to wait for him to join the team in three years.

Having this opportunity is truly incredible. Being able to have him, a 19-year-old, learn under the guidance of a coach like John Tortorella and our exceptional coaching staff, I believe it presents a wonderful chance for both him and us to have him at such an early stage.

Michkov said he was looking forward to meeting Tortorella, and has been in touch with several teammates, including Ivan Fedotov, Egor Zamula, Sean Couturier and Erik Johnson.

Michkov expressed that he has been in touch with numerous individuals. He expressed gratitude for the warm reception and eagerly anticipated meeting each person in person.

The Philadelphia Flyers recognize the significance of supporting Michkov beyond the rink, acknowledging that his adjustment off the ice is equally crucial. To assist him during training camp, Flyers consultant Slava Kuznetsov will act as a translator, while the team has also recruited an English-language tutor specifically for Michkov’s needs.

“We also have a pretty tight locker room, guys like  Nicolas Deslauriers and Garnet Hathaway, Erik Johnson, that are great veterans that understand, that have been around a long time, make sure that he fits in and they’re going to help him out,” Briere said. “That’s why having good veterans is a key when you bring young guys out of their comfort [zone]. It’s really important.

We will make our best effort to find everything or provide assistance to him along the way.

Johnson, who maintains regular communication with Michkov, is represented by the same agency.

“On July 11, Johnson expressed his efforts in connecting with him through Instagram, and the translation tool has made it quite convenient,” Johnson stated. “My goal is to make him feel at ease and address any queries he may have. I’m going the extra mile by exchanging phone numbers and providing assistance in any way he requires, helping him adjust to Philadelphia and the NHL.”

Before facing the media, Michkov was already on the ice Wednesday morning. He chose to keep his personal goals for his rookie NHL season private, emphasizing that his primary objective is the success of the team.

He stated that the initial goal is to secure a spot in the playoffs. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of consistently contributing to the team’s victories, enabling fans to increasingly relish the games.