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Tocchet Pushes Back on Michkov Narrative, Says Bench Exchange Was Routine Instruction

The coach reiterated a team-first approach as the 21-year-old’s minutes and scoring lag his standout rookie pace.

Overview

  • Rick Tocchet voiced frustration with repeated questions about Matvei Michkov, saying “enough is enough” while noting Philadelphia’s 17-10-7 record.
  • He said the broadcast-captured exchange with Michkov involved guidance on when to switch with Denver Barkey and was not an argument.
  • Michkov and Barkey assisted on Travis Sanheim’s power-play goal shortly after the bench conversation.
  • The winger has 19 points in 34 games with average ice time down to 14:43 from 16:41 last season, and his recent slump has influenced deployment.
  • Coverage cites defensive lapses, unnecessary penalties, and perceived cherry-picking as usage factors, while team notes included Aleksei Kolosov’s AHL reassignment and Dan Vladař’s game-time status with Christian Dvorak expected to play.