Philadelphia Flyers head coach Rick Tocchet said he regrets publicly criticizing Matvei Michkov's fitness multiple times last season and believes the forward is better prepared heading into the 2026-27 campaign.
"I think it's a learning lesson for both of us," Tocchet told The Athletic's Kevin Kurz. "I think the relationship has been overblown, and I think he's talked about it. In saying that, in February, I was frustrated. I should have probably kept the remarks about him being out of shape - I had already said it four times; I don't think I needed to say it a fifth time. As any coach, you learn a lesson. So, I would take that back."
In February, Tocchet told the PHLY Flyers Podcast that Michkov showed up to last season's training camp out of shape. The fallout from the comments led to a team meeting and a public vote of confidence in Michkov from general manager Daniel Briere.
Michkov regressed from 63 points as a rookie to 51 under Tocchet last season. He was a healthy scratch multiple times in the playoffs as the Flyers reached the second round.
"He has high expectations for himself," Tocchet said. "I really want to help him right from the gate, and really get him in a situation to be comfortable on the ice. I want him to be creative. I want him to come in my office and (ask), 'What do you think about this?' But there are still some non-negotiables. We have to have them as a coach. But I'd be crazy not to let him be creative or take a guy one-on-one or make plays off the rush. That's his gift. I want him to do that. I think he's done (the work) this summer to prepare himself for that."
The Flyers drafted Michkov seventh overall in 2023. He was scouted as one of the most skilled prospects of his draft class but fell down the board due to his contractual obligations in the KHL. He ended his deal in Russia early to join Philadelphia ahead of the 2024-25 season and has produced 114 points in 161 career games.
