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Tocchet Explains Michkov’s Reduced Minutes as Scoreless Start Extends to Three Games

Tocchet points to conditioning from a summer ankle injury as the reason for lighter usage.

Overview

  • Michkov has no points through the Flyers’ first three games and has logged 43:20 total ice time, averaging 14:26 per game.
  • Rick Tocchet said on a podcast that Michkov entered camp behind on fitness due to an offseason ankle issue and that he is working back up to speed.
  • Tocchet described a balancing act between allowing Michkov’s creativity and reinforcing defensive and situational discipline, noting ongoing video work and improved recent practices.
  • Frequent penalties have cut into Michkov’s opportunities since he is not on the penalty kill, and Nikita Grebenkin was used in his spot late in a recent game as a reward for the latter’s play.
  • Underlying indicators suggest chances are coming, including 0.54 expected goals over three games, and Michkov said he is staying patient and confident the points will follow.