With the seventh-overall pick at the NHL Draft, the Philadelphia Flyers have selected Matvei Michkov from SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL.
Once believed to be a top-three pick, the current political climate resulting from the Russian invasion of Ukraine as well as Michkov’s unique contract situation meant his draft stock took a bit of a hit. Since the 18-year-old is under contract with SKA St. Petersburg until the conclusion of the 2026-27 season, his drafting team might have to wait four years before the talented youngster can make the transition to the NHL.
The Russian forward made his KHL debut with SKA St. Petersburg in 2021. Last season, Michkov recorded 20 points (nine goals, 11 assists) in 27 regular-season games.
Sportsnet’s Jason Bukala and Sam Cosentino likened Michkov to Minnesota Wild phenom Kirill Kaprizov, who made an instant impact with the Wild six years after being drafted and collected the Calder Memorial Trophy in the process.