Major Boost: Philadelphia Flyers confirms the signing of another top star
The New York Rangers and other teams in the Metropolitan Division likely took note when the Philadelphia Flyers signed the 2023 first-round pick, following the unexpected termination of his KHL contract.
If this news slipped through during the busy start of NHL free agency, the Flyers made sure to highlight “Michkov Mania” with a grand welcome as the 19-year-old forward arrived in the U.S. on Tuesday. His arrival at JFK Airport, located in Rangers territory, was met with a large reception, captured in videos and photos. Flyers GM Daniel Briere even helped carry Michkov’s hockey sticks, accompanied by a smiling team president Keith Jones.
Michkov embraced the moment, donning a Flyers golf shirt and a Philadelphia Phillies cap.
Originally, this moment wasn’t anticipated for another two years. When Michkov was drafted with the 7th overall pick last year, he was under a three-year contract with SKA St. Petersburg in the KHL. However, his release from the team in late June opened the way for him to join the Flyers.
Last season, Michkov impressed in the KHL with 41 points (19 goals, 22 assists) in 48 games. He’s a highly skilled offensive player, though he still needs to develop other aspects of his game.
His talent has led FanDuel to list him as the top favorite for the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year for 2024-25, even ahead of San Jose Sharks center Macklin Celebrini, the top pick in the 2024 draft.
Ladies and gentlemen, we got him. #LetsGoFlyers pic.twitter.com/xkc0lVhOP6
— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) July 23, 2024
Rangers still class of division despite Flyers big addition
Michkov’s entry into the NHL this season is unlikely to drastically alter the power dynamics within the Metropolitan Division. However, his presence should enhance a Flyers offense that ranked 27th in the league in scoring for the 2023-24 season. Michkov’s “elite puck touch and playmaking ability,” as noted in scouting reports, will be a notable addition to Philadelphia’s roster.
Despite their surprising near-playoff berth last season, the Flyers are expected to compete for a third-place finish or a wild-card spot again this year. The Rangers are projected to stay at the top of the division, with the New Jersey Devils and Carolina Hurricanes also vying for the top spots. The Flyers will have a tough time matching up against the Rangers.
The Capitals and Penguins are likely the Flyers’ main rivals.
Michkov’s arrival, however, does accelerate Philadelphia’s path to becoming a serious contender, much like the impact of defenseman Jamie Drysdale and goalie Ivan Fedotov last season. Former Rangers coach John Tortorella has a promising young team in Philadelphia, and it will be intriguing to see how he manages the 19-year-old star. Tortorella’s history with young talent has been inconsistent.
The Rangers may face Michkov for the first time on November 29 during their annual Black Friday game against the Flyers. This matchup could mark the beginning of a significant rivalry with the 5-foot-10 winger, who has already been compared to Capitals icon Alex Ovechkin at this early stage in his career.