Perhaps the biggest storyline from the Philadelphia Flyers‘ 2025–26 season has been their handling of 21-year-old forward Matvei Michkov. After leading the team in goals and putting up 63 points as a rookie, his usage has caved under new head coach Rick Tocchet.
Beyond a perceived lack of opportunity, some fans have been frustrated by Tocchet repeatedly playing Michkov on the left wing. Despite spending his whole career on the right side, that has changed this season—he’s a full-time left-winger. When asked about his thoughts following a Feb. 24 practice, the youngster spoke up on the situation for the first time.
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“I was always playing the right. I was always there. Now I’m playing on the left. It’s a new role. If the coaches see me there, I have to adapt as quick as I can,” PHLY‘s Charlie O’Connor transcribed. He continued, “For me, on the right, I can create a lot more moments. Now I have to switch everything to the left and do the same thing.”
Michkov on getting shifted to LW this season, and how that's went for him:
— Charlie O'Connor (@charlieo_conn) February 24, 2026
"I was always playing the right. I was always there. Now I’m playing on the left. It’s a new role. If the coaches see me there, I have to adapt as quick as I can."
It should be noted that, in O’Connor’s eyes, Michkov “took responsibility” and “denied having a bad relationship with Tocchet.” However, switching to the left wing has been a major adjustment.
The data backs up Michkov’s thoughts. According to NHL Edge, he is historically a much better finisher on the right side of the ice. He’s willing to endure the growing pains of switching sides, but his comments are valid.
What do you think? Should the Flyers pull the plug on the left-wing experiment and put Michkov back on the right side? Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comment section!
