Rinkside Roundup: Ivan Demidov and Matvei Michkov thriving in new situations

The 2024–25 season is officially underway. From NHL pre-season action to the KHL and the resumption of junior hockey, top prospects are back on the ice and delivering noteworthy performances. Russian wingers, in particular, have started the season in fine form, generating abundant offence on both sides of the Pacific.

Matvei Michkov has scored six points through half as many preseason appearances for the Flyers, delivering elite offensive sequences even when the puck fails to cross the goal line – and when stationed in his office behind it: 

2025 draft prospects have already begun lighting up the CHL, as well, with a pair of dynamic centremen making strong cases for con