Unexpected change in Matvei Michkov’s development thanks to Sidney Crosby!

Matvei Michkov was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers with the 7th overall selection in the NHL Draft back in June. It was however expected that he would return to Russia and keep his slot on the roster of the KHL’s SKA St. Petersburg.
The preseason got underway on Thursday and it came as a surprise to many that Michkov was being used as a center.

Michkov, who naturally plays on the wing, entered the game centering the team’s second line. The result was stunning for a first time down the middle as the young Russian forward registered two points and a shootout goal as well.

The SKA is likely to experiment with Michkov as a centerman this upcoming season. The first-rounder was reportedly the one who was interested in learning how to play center. His head coach was quicker than Michkov and approached him with the idea for the start of the preseason.

Michkov admitted that he studied Sidney Crosby’s games to prepare for becoming a centre.

These are some highlights of what Michkov managed to do at center:

The Flyers aren’t necessarily deep at center and, whenever Michkov is ready to come to the NHL, he would provide Philadelphia with another option down the middle. It’s too soon to tell what kind of team the Flyers will present at that point in time, but adding Michkov’s skills will definitely boost the club up front.

Can’t wait to see if Michkov can find his inner Crosby… for the Flyers, that is.

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