Yahoo Sports Matvei Michkov On Adjusting To Flyers And Grind Of NHL Season
Transitioning to the NHL is never easy, even for players as supremely talented as Matvei Michkov.
The Flyers’ rookie has dazzled at times with his skill and creativity, but his first NHL season has also presented its fair share of challenges.
In a candid conversation, Michkov opened up about his adjustment to life in the world’s top hockey league, offering thoughtful insight into his journey so far.
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Adjusting to the NHL's Demands
For Michkov, the shift to the NHL’s relentless schedule has been one of the toughest aspects of the transition. The pace and intensity of the league, combined with the smaller rink size and the need for split-second decision-making, have been eye-opening.
“NHL games happen almost every day,” Michkov admitted. “Honestly, it's tough to prepare myself mentally for each game. I need to learn how to ensure I have the energy to play at 100% every game. NHL rinks are smaller, the pace is faster, and decisions need to be made more quickly. I'm still adjusting to this.”
Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey News
Michkov’s ability to process the game at high speeds was one of the attributes that made him a top prospect, but even he has found the step up in competition to be challenging at times. However, his comments reflect a maturity and willingness to adapt, key traits that bode well for his continued development.
“This is my first NHL season; some moments are challenging for me,” he acknowledged. Yet his determination to learn and improve is evident in his approach.
Support Systems and Staying Grounded
As a young player adapting to a new league, a new country, and a new culture, Michkov has leaned on his support systems to stay grounded. He highlighted the importance of his family’s presence in helping him manage the mental and emotional challenges of life in the NHL.
“My English is getting better every day, but there are still things I don't understand,” Michkov said. “Adaptation is going well. And having my family nearby makes it easier... With all the stress, it's important to let your mind rest and spend time with family.”
Matvei Michkov said his mom and brother were here, said the goal was for his family. Egor Zamula translated for him. pic.twitter.com/riImixylHx
— Jordan Hall (@JHallNBCS) September 14, 2024
Even as he works to integrate himself into the team and the league, Michkov remains conscious of the need to balance the pressures of professional hockey with moments of rest and enjoyment. He recounted spending New Year’s Eve in Las Vegas during a team event, jokingly noting, “There [was] a team event, but I [wasn't] allowed to go to the casino.”
This balance between focus and relaxation will be critical as Michkov continues to grow as a player and adjust to the demands of his first NHL season.
Learning From Tortorella's Leadership
Working under Flyers head coach John Tortorella has been an important part of Michkov’s development this season. The young winger expressed respect for Tortorella’s straightforward style and credited the coach for helping him learn the ropes of the NHL.
“He's the coach, so he knows best,” Michkov said. “Tortorella is very experienced, and there's a lot I can learn from him. I try to listen to everything he says and follow all his instructions. For now, we communicate only through an interpreter. I can understand him, but I can't respond yet.”
Despite the language barrier, Michkov appreciates Tortorella’s honesty, a quality he holds in high regard. “For me, the most important quality in a person is honesty, and John Tortorella is a very honest person with everyone. If something is on his mind, he says it. People like that are highly valued in my encirclement.”
Megan DeRuchie-The Hockey News
While Michkov’s adjustment to the NHL is still a work in progress, he has shown the resilience and drive needed to succeed at this level.
Whether it’s focusing on his on-ice development, improving his English, or navigating the mental challenges of the NHL grind, Michkov is taking each challenge in stride.
As for the Calder Trophy race, Michkov has chosen not to dwell on it. “I wouldn't say I follow [the Calder Trophy standings], but I know the guys are playing well. The competition is really strong, but I try not to think about it. When you start thinking about it, things don't go as you'd like. My goal is to go out on the ice and help my team.”
With his skill, maturity, and work ethic, Michkov’s rookie season is just the beginning of what promises to be a bright future in the NHL. For Flyers fans, watching him navigate this journey is as exciting as his on-ice playmaking, and the best is surely yet to come.
Related: Danny Briere Is 'Excited' For Matvei Michkov's Arrival; Sets Expectations For Flyers Debut
