Top prospect Matvei Michkov has his contract terminated

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Josh Tupper
June 25, 2024 (11:06)

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In Philadelphia, the Matvei Michkov era has officially begun, two years ahead of schedule.

There were rumors over the weekend that Matvei Michkov was planning to move to North America in order to start his NHL career in the fall. But his KHL contract with SKA St. Petersburg being dissolved stood in the way.

By Tuesday morning, it seems like a deal has been made to enable Matvei Michkov to travel to North America ahead of schedule.

Matvei Michkov is leaving KHL team SKA St. Peterburg to play for the Philadelphia Flyers in the NHL beginning in the upcoming season, the team announced on social media.

"Matvei Michkov is leaving SKA.

The forward will join the Philadelphia Flyers. His KHL rights remain with our club.

With SKA, Matvei won the 2022 Kharlamov Cup and became the first player born in 2004 to play for our senior team.

Good luck in the NHL, Matvei! #hcSKA" SKA St. Petersburg said.

The Philadelphia Flyers selected Michkov, 19, seventh overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. Many speculate that his Russian contract status was the reason for his slip. It's safe to say that some of the teams that selected ahead of Philadelphia last year aren't too happy about his contract termination and early entry into the NHL.

Michkov had a fantastic season after being loaned to HC Sochi by SKA St. Petersburg last season. He recorded 41 points (19 goals, 22 assists), 45 penalty minutes, and a minus-six in 47 games.

With Michkov's contract in Russia officially terminated, expect him to sign his entry-level deal with the Philadelphia Flyers very soon, potentially as early as today or tomorrow.

Source: Blade of Steel
Matvei Michkov contract terminated