John Tortorella Is Remaining Healthy And Is Ready To Scratch; Rookie Matvei Michkov Is Untouchably OK.

However, to the delight of many of its followers (myself included) there was another solution – creating the impression of movement by simply pausing. But no, these days most people seem more content to simply keep on moving! John Tortorella of the Philadelphia Flyers has shown himself consistent when it comes to not hesitating to bench players, such as Sean Couturier last season; on Thursday he made Matvei Michkov a healthy scratch for Philadelphia’s game against Tampa Bay after starting off his NHL career on an impressive note by being named Rookie of the Month for October. Michkov had an outstanding early production rate – posting nine points over his first eight games – yet has seen his output slip since, recording just one point over his past five. His ice time has steadily been decreasing from 21:54 in his fourth game to just 13:57 during Tuesday’s match-up against Toronto. Tortorella clearly isn’t doing something right here. He can select any lineup he deems suitable despite some doubts surrounding Philadelphia being capable of benching their top rookie player. Tortorella made his decision clear. Michkov has played in the KHL before and at 19 is more experienced than many of his freshman counterparts, yet Tortorella did not hesitate to defend it when making this choice. Tortorella explained his decision to bench Michkov as being meant to aid his development: he wants “younger guys [like him] watching games as much as they possibly can and helping him.” “That is our aim – trying to help him.” Tortorella can often be counterintuitive; but in this instance, we can see where his logic lies. Michkov shouldn’t become too comfortable in his current role and sitting in the press box will keep him humble.” The Flyers haven’t hit their stride yet this season and currently sit eighth in the Metropolitan Division with a 4-8-1 record, serving as an indicator that there remains much work for this team to do before any sense of urgency can take hold as wins become tangible goals for this group. Michkov doesn’t need to play 20 minutes per night or every game for him and the team to advance properly. At certain moments this season, Michkov has looked like one of the top contenders to claim the Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year. Michkov has not performed to his standard right now and his defensive play – or lack thereof – provides ample opportunity for growth through observation. Thus it should come as no shock that Michkov would leave the lineup. Tortorella has noted Michkov’s reduced playing time recently and said previously that, like almost all young players, Michkov may experience moments where he sits and watches rather than participates. Nothing to get worked up about. #LetsGoFlyers– Siobhan Nolan (@SGNolan), November 7 2024Tortorella has never shied away from challenging his players to step up their games through cutting opportunities when necessary; Michkov now faces his first taste of hardship in world’s premier hockey league; it will be fascinating to witness his response to it all. Michkov will likely return to the lineup shortly, but at present he must demonstrate he can withstand Coach Hextall’s intense scrutiny and emerge with enhanced skills as an overall player. Otherwise, we could face even bigger problems for them going forward. But more likely he takes Tortorella’s criticism in stride and adapts his game accordingly. Tortorella can be an exacting bench boss; now is Michkov’s time to adapt. Get all the latest news and stories delivered directly to you with The Hockey News newsletter; express your opinions by leaving a comment here or at our forum!