Matvei Michkov on leaving Russia early: ‘I don’t know’

Good news for the Philadelphia Flyers and Flyers fans: There is a possibility Matvei Michkov will leave Russia early, if only because he isn’t sure that there isn’t a possibility.

In an interview with MatchTV’s Pavel Lysenkov, Michkov discussed a wide range of different topics, including Connor Bedard, Macklin Celebrini, his Michigan attempt against Magnitogorsk, and perhaps most importantly, his current contract in the KHL. When asked by Lysenkov if there was any chance he would leave for the NHL earlier than 2026, Michkov responded (roughly translated), “Honestly, I’m not ready to answer these questions yet. Because I don’t know. Yes, I have a valid contract with SKA. Therefore, all its requirements must be observed.”

So… yeah. Essentially, Michkov is playing the politician and avoiding giving a direct answer, instead deferring to the fact that he has a contract that has to be honored. It’s not a yes, but most importantly for the Flyers and Flyers fans, it’s not a no either. Later in the interview, Michkov also acknowledged the Flyers’ fans and Philly media covering him (that’s us!).

Lysenkov asked the 19-year-old whether he sees how Flyers fans react to his latest highlights and how they talk about him on social media. Michkov answered, “Honestly, lately I got out of these social networks. I try to spend more time without a phone. But apparently, fans are watching and writing, that’s understandable.”

Speaking of the NHL, Michkov didn’t offer much on comparisons with Bedard or how he would fare in the NHL had he played there this season, but was careful to note that “Whatever league I perform in, I do not like to lose.” Whether AHL or NHL, the future Flyers star only cares about winning.

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