Much had been said about Matvei Michkov in the days leading up to the 2023 NHL Draft. There were rumblings that Michkov was very difficult to meet with, and really didn't seem interested in taking calls or answering questions. Now, there's word Michkov told one team ahead of the draft that he would not play for them if they selected him.
Absolutely Not
"Absolutely not" was reportedly the answer Michkov gave the Arizona Coyotes when asked if he had any interest in playing for the team.
"The Coyotes really liked Michkov, but were forced to pivot elsewhere after his draft interview knowing he would never sign with them.
H/T: Frank Seravelli, Craig Morgan - NHLBreakers, Instagram
Character
Michkov's attitude had been called into questions several times before the Philadelphia Flyers decided to take him seventh overall in the 2023 Draft this week. Arizona had the previous selection and shocked many by going completely off the board with Dmitriy Simashev, who was expected to go somewhere in the second round. This is likely the reason why. There isn't much sense of drafting a player who won't report.