'He's Just Scratching the Surface': Flyers Legend Praises Matvei Michkov

Philadelphia Flyers legend Bobby Clarke knows a thing or two about talent—and when he sees it, he’s not shy about sharing his thoughts.

Recently, Clarke had high praise for 20-year-old Flyers forward Matvei Michkov, acknowledging the impressive adjustments Michkov has made to the NHL game while highlighting just how much untapped potential remains in the young Russian phenom.

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A Bright Future Ahead

Michkov has already shown an understanding of the game well beyond his years, along with razor-sharp vision, dazzling creativity, and a ferocious competitive streak in his debut NHL season, impressing viewers with his skills.

Despite the challenges of adapting to the smaller North American ice and facing more structured defensive systems, Michkov’s competitive nature and intelligence have kept him effective and dangerous. Clarke, who knows the grind of establishing yourself in the NHL, is confident that Michkov’s best years are still ahead.

"He's going to be a good one. He's going to be really good," Clarke said. "He's really smart and really competitive and just 20 years old. But as good as these kids are, you're going to have to wait to see their true potential. Look at [Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard], he's setting the league on fire and it's his second year. These kids, they'll hit their stride at 23 or 24 in a few years. They look good now, but they're just scratching the surface."

Clarke makes a crucial point that many people have forgotten when it comes to evaluating Michkov in his rookie year: even the most talented young players need time to fully blossom. For the young Russian forward, this season is about building a foundation for future success.

Adapting to the NHL Game

Coming from the ice surfaces of the KHL, Michkov has faced a bit of a learning curve. The tighter confines of NHL rinks mean less time and space to make plays, and opposing teams have already started keying in on his movements. Clarke recognized this adjustment period as a natural part of Michkov’s development.

"When you've played on the big ice [in the KHL], there's a lot more ice to work on," Clarke explained. "Now teams see him coming. Coverage against him is much tighter, guys are on him, so he's got to check more to get the puck. He's learning the game, but he's very competitive, so that's good."

That competitive edge has been a defining trait of Michkov’s game. Even when opponents have limited his offensive opportunities, he’s found ways to make an impact, whether through puck battles, defensive positioning, or setting up teammates. His hunger to learn and improve is evident, and it’s a quality that Clarke believes will serve him well as he continues to grow.

The Best Is Yet to Come

As Clarke noted, patience is key when evaluating young players. Michkov has already demonstrated that he belongs in the NHL, but he’s far from reaching his ceiling. His adaptability, hockey IQ, and relentless work ethic suggest that he will only become more dangerous as he gains experience and continues to refine his game.

Flyers fans have every reason to be excited about Michkov’s trajectory. While the present shows promise, the future could be even brighter. Clarke’s endorsement underscores that sentiment: Michkov may just be scratching the surface now, but when he hits his stride, he has the potential to be one of the league’s premier players.

For now, watching him navigate the challenges of his first NHL season is a thrill in itself—and a reminder that greatness often takes time. As Clarke said, "He's going to be really good."

Related: Matvei Michkov On Adjusting To Flyers And Grind Of NHL Season

Related: Matvei Michkov's Quiet Determination To Grow: How A Russian Star Is Thriving With The Flyers

Related: Bedard, Michkov & The Draft That Could Have Been: A Look Back At The 2023 NHL Draft