Maksim Sokolovskii, the Flyers’ 2026 first-round pick (27th overall), expressed strong excitement about his first (unofficial) NHL game in the team’s rookie series against the New York Rangers on September 12, 2026.
The 6’8, 240-pound Left-Shot Defenseman (born July 12, 2008, in Petropavlovsk, Kazakhstan; raised partly in Russia) played for the London Knights (OHL) last season and is committed to the University of Maine for 2027-28. In the rookie game at PPL Center in Allentown, the Flyers won 3-2. Sokolovskii was physical throughout, used his stick to disrupt rushes, and tried to contribute offensively, though he took two penalties (roughing on a high hit and a retaliatory hit). Reports noted the size-related nature of one call and that it was otherwise a solid showing for the big, raw shutdown-style prospect.
His comments reflected pure enthusiasm:
- Before the game: “So excited for my first NHL game. So excited.”
- After: “So excited. I wait for this, for the game, for first my NHL game. Long time. I’m so excited.” He also said he wanted “to show my game, keep working towards my dream.”
This was part of Flyers rookie camp/showcase games (not regular-season NHL action). Sokolovskii is viewed as a long-term project with high defensive upside due to his rare combination of size, skating, compete level, and physicality.
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