Photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
During the 2023 draft, many were disappointed to see that Kent Hughes did not select young Matvei Michkov.
What followed was a sort of smear campaign against David Reinbacher, who ultimately became the Montreal Canadiens’ pick at 5th overall. The cynicism toward the Austrian defenseman continued afterward, as he has been injured more often than not since arriving in North America.
But things are starting to change, and Michkov’s perception is becoming less and less positive around the NHL. With each passing day, more negative information surfaces about the Russian forward.
“Yes he’s a great goal scorer, and he has a lot of skill. I think just have to find a way to contribute, helping the team win in other ways, you’re not always scoring. I’ve seen improvement in not cheating as much.”
– Sean Couturier
The list, as Mitch Gallo shows, is starting to get long.
“Recap Michkov:
– called out by vet captain
– yelled at veteran coach on the bench
– showed up out of shape
– got in some accident in Dubai where the details are shady
– he cheats for offense doesn’t and back check
– question marks in his draft year, had issues with coaches in KHL
You know what… Trust Kent Hughes.”
– Mitch Gallo
Pierre Dorion understands why Kent Hughes passed on Matvei Michkov, but with the information he had, he thought the Canadiens would draft Ryan Leonard instead
In light of all this, it is understandable that the Canadiens did not select Michkov. Even former Ottawa Senators GM Pierre Dorion agrees with the decision. What he does not understand, however, is why Kent Hughes and his team chose David Reinbacher instead of Ryan Leonard.
“I wasn’t surprised that the Canadiens didn’t select Michkov; I was surprised that they didn’t select Ryan Leonard, based on the information I had at the time.”
– Pierre Dorion
It was an acquisition many had predicted, but one that ultimately never materialized for the Canadiens at the draft. Since joining the Washington Capitals, Leonard has played 24 NHL games, recording a total of eight points. He has three goals and four assists in 15 games in 2025-2026.
It will be interesting to see whether he gets a chance to prove himself this season with the big club or if they prefer to have him continue developing under Pascal Vincent.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics