St. John’s is set to feature in the National Hockey League draft discussions, with anticipation building around the next steps for young talents. In Petersburg, SKA’s 18-year-old forward Matvey Michkov has been clear about his current focus and ambitions. He emphasizes that considering a move to an overseas league is not a priority at this moment. His energy is directed toward establishing a strong presence with his home club and proving his value on the ice for SKA, where he believes his future will be forged.
“It’s probably too early for me to think about America. I will do everything possible to secure a place in SKA. This is my primary objective,” he stated. His words reflect a mindset fixed on growth within the Russian system, where steady development and performance are essential for later opportunities abroad. Michkov elaborated that he sees success as a personal mission, a chance to earn more points, contribute to the team’s wins, and help SKA reach its season goals. The emphasis was on consistency, training, and on-ice impact as the path to rising through the ranks. He spoke candidly about how each game offers a chance to demonstrate his talents and to earn trust from coaches and teammates alike.
The NHL Draft is scheduled to take place in Nashville on June 28 and 29, with teams from around the world granted rights to players aged 18 to 21. This event is a pivotal juncture for players who aspire to cross the Atlantic and test their skills in North American hockey, a transition that often shapes the trajectory of a player’s career. For Michkov, the draft represents both recognition of his abilities and the next chapter he will consider when the time is right, always balancing personal development with professional opportunities.
During the 2022/2023 season, Michkov spent time on loan with Sochi, gaining valuable exposure in the KHL. He appeared in 27 regular-season games, tallying nine goals and adding 11 assists. Those numbers reflect his knack for creating scoring chances and his evolving understanding of the game at a high level, where speed, precision, and hockey IQ combine to influence outcomes. Observers in the hockey world have noted his poise on the ice, his ability to read plays, and the potential to translate junior success into professional impact in a top league.
Industry analysts and NHL scouts have projected Michkov as a potential top 10 selection in the draft, given his skill set, skating ability, and offensive instincts. The evaluation takes into account his offensive repertoire, his vision with the puck, and his capacity to contribute in various situations, from power play to sustained cycling in the offensive zone. A top 10 placement would signal strong confidence from NHL teams about his readiness to adapt to the North American game and to grow within a new system and league environment.
Meanwhile Kirill Marchenko, a former forward with the Columbus Blue Jackets, has offered perspectives within the professional hockey community. He has often highlighted the caliber of players who come from the Russian hockey system and the influence of veteran leaders on and off the ice. Marchenko has also spoken about Alexander Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals captain, praising him as an exceptional talent who has left a lasting mark on the sport. His reflections provide context for the broader conversation around Russian players pursuing opportunities abroad and the high bar set by elite performers who have paved the way for younger generations.