Danny Briere handled the recent “PR Storm” around Matvei Michkov and Head Coach Rick Tocchet pretty smartly today. There’s been growing noise and speculation in Flyers circles—fan frustration, media chatter, and some perceived drama—about Michkov’s ice time, development, coaching feedback (like comments on treatments), and even wild trade rumors.
Some outlets and fans have criticized the handling of the young star’s usage under Tocchet, especially after a strong rookie year but amid the team’s ongoing rebuild struggles. Brière stepped up pre-game to address it directly and calmly:
- He shut down any trade talk flat-out: “One thing I can tell you is Matvei Michkov is not going anywhere. Let’s make that clear. Matvei is going to be here for a long time. He’s going to be a good player here for the Flyers.”
- On the coach-player dynamic: He framed it as tough love, comparing it to “raising a child.” Tocchet wants Michkov to succeed and become the best he can be, with “tough lessons” along the way. Things can get “fiery” (especially when the team isn’t winning), but they always circle back because everyone wants what’s best for the team.
- He clarified that Tocchet’s recent remarks: “I know there were some comments regarding missing treatments from Rick Tocchet at the Carnival. Those comments were made to try and explain how players are learning along the way. He wasn’t targeting Matvei. Him and Matvei have a good relationship.” Briere said they were about the pro process for all young players (training, recovery, etc.).
- Overall, he emphasized transparency (“We have nothing to hide”) and staying focused on building a Cup contender without getting rattled.
It was a measured, no-nonsense response that quelled a lot of the speculation and reaffirmed commitment to Michkov as a long-term cornerstone.
Elliotte Friedman even noted it felt like “The Briere Signal” to put an end to the external noise.Smart move by the GM to step in publicly and keep things steady during a bumpy rebuild phase. Michkov’s talent is undeniable—Flyers fans just want to see it maximized.
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