Matvei Michkov attempted to score a ‘Michigan’ on Charlie Lindgren in the Philadelphia Flyers’ 4-3 loss on Thursday night. Michkov was stopped by the Washington Capitals goaltender and denied his first career hat trick on the play.
“I saw him get it on his stick, and then I said, ‘Oh boy, I better climb this post here, or –,’” Lindgren said. “Pretty impressive.”
A day later, at Flyers’ practice, an undaunted Michkov was “repeatedly practicing the Michigan” at the team’s skate, per PHLY’s Charlie O’Connor.
Michkov is repeatedly practicing the Michigan right now after failing to score on it last night. pic.twitter.com/eYruyqRJqh
— Charlie O'Connor (@charlieo_conn) February 7, 2025
Maher Media’s Chris Maher also posted on X another view of Michkov’s ‘Michigan’ work from his spot behind the goal.
Michkov flips the puck to himself between his legs and hits the Michigan 🤢 pic.twitter.com/fLWqqQoYBK
— Chris Maher (@_ChrisMaher) February 7, 2025
Michkov’s heavy practice of the move comes despite John Tortorella’s condemnation of the trick play this season. The temperamental Flyers head coach wanted his young superstar to make a higher percentage play rather than try the fancy lacrosse move. However, Torts recently admitted he “lost the battle” despite wanting it “out of the game.”
While Michkov’s ‘Michigan’ work might frustrate his head coach, the young Russian proved to be an excellent teammate at the same practice. Michkov was reportedly the last player on the ice with Andrei Kuzmenko, who the Flyers acquired in a trade from the Calgary Flames on January 30. Michkov and Kuzmenko were previously teammates in the KHL with SKA St. Petersburg.
After practice concluded, the young Russian participated in an autograph signing at Willow Grove Park Mall with fellow flyers Owen Tippet and Tyson Foerster. Videos posted to social media showed a big line well out the door and extending into the mall.
