Matvei Michkov was still supposed to be playing in the KHL this season. At least, that was the expectation for him when the Flyers drafted him in the first round (seventh overall) in the 2023 NHL Draft. There was speculation he could possibly get across the pond a year earlier than expected if the KHL team he was playing for let him go and released him prior to his contract ending. But the Flyers brass were there front and center when Michkov arrived in the U.S. He was here to start his career early and Flyers fans rejoiced.
Although the first year under John Tortorella had its lows and highs, Michkov was essentially snubbed for a Calder Trophy nomination despite racking up 67 points.