When the Montreal Canadiens chose David Reinbacher with the 5th overall pick in the 2023 draft, many fans expressed their disappointment that Kent Hughes opted not to select Matvei Michkov. The Philadelphia Flyers subsequently took a chance on Michkov just two picks later, and Daniel Brière’s risk proved worthwhile as Michkov is now competing in the NHL.
The situation appears less favorable for the Canadiens now that Reinbacher is expected to be sidelined for much of the 2024-2025 season due to an injury sustained in a preseason match against the Toronto Maple Leafs during training camp. However, according to Danslescoulisses.com, the young forward’s future in Montreal might have been uncertain even prior to the 2023 draft.
TSN 690 reporter Mitch Gallo noted that Matvei Michkov was not interested in playing for the Canadiens. Similar to Cutter Gauthier, who was drafted by the Flyers the previous year and subsequently traded to the Anaheim Ducks, the 19-year-old forward sought to control his own destiny by choosing where he wanted to play. The Canadiens weren’t the only team that overlooked Michkov during the 2023 draft, as some experts considered him the best player in the draft besides Connor Bedard.
It’s somewhat unclear whether Michkov outright rejected the idea of playing in Montreal, but various theories suggest that he preferred to join the Philadelphia Flyers. Before determining if Daniel Brière’s decision was wise, Michkov will have his rookie season during 2024-2025, and he will certainly be a contender for the Calder Trophy.
As for David Reinbacher, let’s reserve judgment and give him a chance to prove himself.
