Overview
- Michkov has nine goals and 23 points in 43 games, with just one goal since Dec. 1.
- Tocchet has repeatedly cited conditioning and skating concerns, shifted Michkov to left wing, dropped him to the second power-play unit, and reduced his average ice time to 14:39 from 16:41.
- Former NHL player Ryan Whitney and many fans on X argue the winger is being underplayed and that coaching decisions are limiting his development.
- Coverage highlights a perceived double standard as the team publicly supports struggling goalie Samuel Ersson while Michkov receives pointed critiques.
- Analytical reports from NHL Edge and Hockey Stats counter parts of the criticism, indicating strong skating metrics and above-average on-ice impact.