John Tortorella has been steady in his handling of young talent during his tenure behind the bench in Philadelphia. Read More The post Tortorella’s Handling Of Flyers rookie Matvei Michkov Is Consistent With Recent History appeared first on Metro Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Flyers coach scratching rookie of the month Matvei Michkov is not necessarily a bad thing. It's now up to the Calder Trophy contender to respond effectively.

Head coach John Tortorella and the Philadelphia Flyers made major airwaves after making public the decision to bench, as in fully healthy scratch, rookie sensation Matvei Michkov ahead of Thursday night’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

To be clear, from Day 1 of training camp Tortorella has left little doubt he thinks the world of Michkov. The winger’s work ethic, competitiveness and internal fire have endeared him to the Flyers’ often tough-to-please coach. Yes, there’s a nearly half-century age gap between the two, but there seems to be a real affection there.

Michkov, who is second on the team with 10 points in 13 games, will sit for the first time as a Flyer.

Philadelphia Flyers rookie Matrei Michkov was a healthy scratch Thursday night against the Tampa Bay Lightning, a move coach John Tortorella described as “just part of the process” in the young player’s development.

Philadelphia Flyers head coach John Tortorella's decision to scratch Matvei Michkov for their game against the Tampa Bay Lightning has ignited a predictable wave of fan reactions, with some crying foul over the benching of the young superstar.