Flyers’ Michkov jokes about not getting first career hat trick
Still learning a new language and not quite comfortable speaking English in front of reporters, Matvei Michkov showed a lighter, amusing side to his personality Monday night after Philadelphia’s 2-1 win over Nashville. Michkov, who had two assists, was asked about his quasi-breakaway chance in the first period when he caught an “alley oop” pass from Travis Konecny, tossed it down and nearly put one by Predators goalie Justus Annunen.
“The puck went up in the air, but the lights were too bright and I got blinded for a second and didn’t score,” Michkov said through interpreter and Flyers coach Slava Kuznetsov. “Normally it would be in the net.” Then, like a seasoned comedian, Michkov delivered the punch line. “Unless it’s empty,” Michkov said which caused some laughter among the media there during the scrum. The rookie was obviously referring to last Thursday’s game against Montreal where Michkov had a chance for his first career hat trick. Konecny fed Michkov a pass in the dying seconds but Michkov’s shot hit the post, causing some including coach Brad Shaw to hold his head in disbelief.
When asked if the streak he’s been putting together has been a bright spot for him, Michkov initially downplayed the points. “The points aren’t important, what’s important is that we keep winning,” Michkov said. “But the points are nice as well.”
Whether it’s the team’s mini-winning streak, the fact he’s putting up points down the homestretch and making the case for the Calder, or the obvious change behind the bench, Matvei Michkov seems to be having a good time. Asked if he was just settling into the rigors of being a professional National Hockey League player, Michkov didn’t state one specific thing. “Nothing happened really, started to just enjoying the game,” he said. “Just started getting more comfortable with the game. That doesn’t have anything to do with the coach. There’s only six games left and I’d like to enjoy the game as much as I can. It’s the end of a season and a long, long break. So I’m trying to seize every single moment on the ice.”
Finally, Michkov was asked about how the season has been for him in a new country, a new league and all the things that come with it. “There are certain difficulties, there are a lot more games. The whole season you are basically fighting with yourself. Hopefully the second season should be a lot easier but I can’t relax at any point.”
Michkov and the team will — outside of practices — essentially have the week off, not playing against until Saturday when the team heads to Montreal to play the Canadiens.
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