Contextualizing Greatness: Flyers' Matvei Michkov

We know the Russian phenom has put up fantastic numbers. But just how great are they really?

The Philadelphia Flyers have, arguably, the best prospect in hockey with Matvei Michkov in their system. Selected with the seventh-overall pick in the 2023 NHL draft, the 19-year-old slipping that far was a dream come true for the Orange and Black.

The so-called “Mad Russian,” has played some elite hockey in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) for multiple seasons now. He has top-end offensive instincts with incredible passing ability, shooting, hockey IQ, and vision. But what does Michkov project to be in the NHL?

Just a teenager, playing in the NHL is not quite in the cards yet. Under contract in the KHL through the 2025-26 season, some patience will be required for that day. To better visualize what he could end up being, let’s contextualize his numbers a bit.

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Michkov’s Offensive Dominance by Season (2022-Present)

Watching a single Michkov contest can show you just what all the hype is about. His talent is something the Flyers simply have not had in a prospect in a long time. His numbers might be even better, though.

Matvei Michkov, Philadelphia Flyers (Amy Irvin / The Hockey Writers)

Below are Michkov’s percentile ranks in goals per game (G/G), assists per game (A/G), and points per game (P/G) over his last two seasons in the KHL. For some context: