Michkov Arrives In U.S. For NHL Draft; Capitals & Flyers The Frontrunners?

Matvei Michkov is Nashville-bound for the 2023 NHL Draft. Will it come down to the Capitals and Flyers?

Prospect Matvei Michkov has arrived in the United States from Russia, and he's Nashville-bound for the 2023 NHL Draft as the first round's most enigmatic player available.

Michkov touched down in New York this weekend and is spending some time taking in the city before heading to the draft. The festivities kick off on Wednesday in Tennessee.

Michkov, who has been pegged as a top-4 talent and arguably the most talented forward option behind Connor Bedard, has landed in numerous spots when it comes to NHL mock drafts, from No. 4 all the way down to No. 8, where the Washington Capitals are on the clock.

In 27 games on loan with the KHL's HC Sochi this season, he had 20 points as he put up better numbers than even Alex Ovechkin in his pre-draft year. However, there are concerns surrounding him, given the fact that he is under contract overseas until 2026, and there are also reported character concerns.

Looking at the latest surrounding the Russians, it appears that there could be two main frontrunners: the Capitals and the team that picks immediately before them: the Philadelphia Flyers.

Now that he's in the States, Michkov is reportedly making himself available to teams before Wednesday after being nearly impossible for NHL representatives to get in contact with during his time playing for the KHL's SKA Saint Petersburg.  He also did not attend the NHL Combine, which was another opportunity for teams to interview prospects.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman speculated that, based on the Flyers' press conference with new general manager Daniel Briere and assistant Brent Flahr, Philadelphia could very well be open to taking Michkov if he falls to No. 7.

There is also apparently a team that is willing to take him despite the concerns and lack of flexibility on his part to meet with teams earlier.

"Someone said to me they think there's a team or teams that will take him sight unseen," Friedman said. "Like they'll just say, 'You know what? We believe in this kid's talent; we can sort it out.'"

It's unclear what club that is, but Washington has been said to be "seriously aimed" at taking him, and if he falls to No. 8, it's almost certain D.C. will select him. Though Friedman admits, while it may be "premature," the Flyers certainly seem like a potential landing spot just one pick prior.

It's also worth noting that the Capitals are reportedly exploring options to move up from eighth overall. Is that to secure the 18-year-old sensation?

We'll have to wait and see.