Daniel Brière Expresses Concern over Matvei Michkov

In an interview with Yanick Bouchard on 98.5 Montréal. Brière admitted that there is obviously some barriers that will make Michkov's development a bit tricky to track, but still has faith in the Flyers top draft choice.

Brière went on to say that he believes that Michkov wishes to come over, but isn't sure as to when. Michkov was said to be eager to play for the Flyers according to reports on draft day.

Michkov, was selected 7th Overall by Philadelphia in the 2023 NHL Draft.
Although questions arose due to his contract with his KHL club, SKA, which runs until 2026, as well as the ongoing War in Ukraine, in which fellow Flyers prospect Ilya Fedotov was accused of evading military service while trying to sign with Philly.

After minimal game time for SKA in 2022-23, Michkov was loaned to fellow KHL club HC Sochi, where he exploded for 9 Goals and 20 Points in 27 Games for the club.

Even with his contract, Michkov said at the draft that his plan is to come over to the Flyers afterwards, with the team willing to wait.

Despite the uncertainty revolving around Michkov, Brière still appears confident in both the talent of his young star, and that the NHL is in his future.

Players such as Kirill Kaprizov and Andrei Kuzmenko have appeared in the NHL from Russia later in their careers, although still young, have managed to translate just fine to the North American game.

Michkov, if he comes over for the 2026-27 season, will be just 21 when he steps on the ice for the Flyers, where the reward still looks to outweigh the risk.

Read More At Hockey Latest - Major: Daniel Brière is worried about Matvei Michkov