Just over a week after Flyers head coach Rick Tocchet’s comments about Matvei Michkov stirred up headlines, general manager Danny Briere stepped in to steady the ship - and make one thing crystal clear: Michkov isn’t going anywhere.
Speaking to the media ahead of the Flyers' game against the Capitals, Briere addressed the growing buzz around the young Russian forward. Tocchet had made some pointed remarks about players missing treatments and not being fully committed - comments that many interpreted as being aimed squarely at Michkov. But Briere was quick to clarify: those were broader comments about the team, not about Michkov specifically.
And while the Flyers' recent slide in the standings might have some fans uneasy, Briere and President of Hockey Ops Keith Jones aren’t hitting the panic button. This season was never about chasing the top of the Metro Division. It’s about building something sustainable - and they’re still on that path.
But perhaps the most telling moment came when Briere spoke about the dynamic between Tocchet and Michkov. He didn’t just offer a vague vote of confidence. He made it clear that Tocchet is invested in Michkov’s development, and that the coaching staff is in it for the long haul.
“It’s going to make him a better player along the way, and Rick Tocchet wants that. He wants to be here for the long haul to lead this team,” Briere said.
That line raised a few eyebrows - not because it was controversial, but because it hinted at where the organization’s priorities lie. If it ever came down to choosing between the coach and the star player, it sure sounds like the Flyers would side with Michkov.
Briere doubled down later in the presser, emphasizing that Tocchet understands how central Michkov is to the team’s future:
“Rick knows how important [Michkov] is to the future of the organization; he wants to make it work.”
That’s exactly the kind of reassurance Flyers fans needed. This isn’t the first time the franchise has faced a crossroads between coach and players.
Just a few years ago, former GM Chuck Fletcher chose to back Alain Vigneault after a disappointing 2020-21 season. That decision led to a flurry of roster shakeups - including parting ways with Shayne Gostisbehere and swapping Jake Voracek for Cam Atkinson - only for Vigneault to be fired a month into the following season.
But this situation feels different. Michkov isn’t just another talented player - he’s a potential franchise cornerstone.
And while the relationship between him and Tocchet may have gotten off to a rocky start, there’s no indication it’s beyond repair. A strong offseason from Michkov, a clean slate, and a little patience could go a long way.
Still, if things don’t improve, it’s clear the Flyers know where their long-term investment lies. This is Michkov’s team to grow with - and the front office isn’t going to jeopardize that future for anything less than the right fit behind the bench.