Matvei Michkov Faces Bench Pressing as Flyers’ Rookie Struggles

Matvei Michkov, a rookie for the Philadelphia Flyers, will not play in Thursday's game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. This decision marks the first time the 19-year-old has been a healthy scratch this season. Michkov, who is second on the team with 10 points, has recently struggled with scoring, totaling only one assist in his last five games. Coach John Tortorella aims to use this moment as a developmental opportunity for the young player. Despite being awarded NHL rookie of the month for October, Michkov's performance has dipped, which led to a reduction in ice time. Tortorella, known for benching young players to instill a sense of discipline, believes that observing from the sidelines will aid in Michkov's growth. The Flyers, currently in last place in their division, face challenges in their season, prompting extra scrutiny on Michkov’s contributions and development. Flyers general manager Danny Briere has emphasized the importance of managing Michkov's expectations due to the significant transition from international play to the NHL. The team hopes that by navigating through these ups and downs, Michkov will become an elite player. However, Briere cautions fans that the journey for a young talent like Michkov in the NHL can be difficult and unpredictable. With the Flyers struggling overall, Michkov's performance and development remain crucial for the team's future. The coaching staff remains committed to helping him adjust, ensuring he can eventually fulfill his potential in the league.