Matvei Michkov Updates on Flyers Contract Talks Ahead of Training Camp

Young Philadelphia Flyers star Matvei Michkov, who has been eligible for a contract extension since July 1, revealed that discussions have yet to commence and are unlikely to start for several weeks. In a recent interview with RG Media, the 21-year-old Russian winger offered little information regarding his contract status, emphasizing his focus on the upcoming season.

“No, there haven’t been any talks yet. I don’t know. My main task is to focus on next season. And whatever happens, happens. As God wills, so it will be,” Michkov stated during the interview. He also mentioned that there have been no communications with head coach Rick Tocchet, saying, “No talks yet. When everything starts, then we’ll talk.”

The Flyers’ main training camp is set to open on Thursday, September 17, following the Rookie Series games against the New York Rangers at the PPL Center in Allentown, Pennsylvania. This timeline suggests that Michkov and his representatives may be more open to engaging in conversations with the Flyers as the camp approaches.

During the summer, Michkov has primarily been training in Russia, where he recently showcased his skills by scoring a Michigan and a hat trick in a charity game for Artemi Panarin’s team. The 2023 No. 6 overall pick is expected to return to North America in early August, allowing him a short window to conclude his training before joining the Flyers.

Michkov is also cognizant of the recent hefty contract signed by teammate Trevor Zegras, who has now become the highest-paid player on the team after avoiding arbitration. “I congratulated Trevor on his new contract. He’s staying for four more years. I think it’s a good signing for Philadelphia, because he’s a strong player. You could say the whole team is now basically built around him,” Michkov remarked about Zegras and his new four-year, $36.5 million deal.

As it stands, Michkov has one year remaining on his entry-level contract with the Flyers, which carries a $950,000 cap hit and includes potential performance bonuses totaling $3.3 million.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.