Flyers winger Matvei Michkov fined $2,000 for second diving infraction
Under NHL Rule 64 (diving/embellishment), Michkov was fined for his actions against the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 24. He previously received a warning on Dec. 3.
In a sophomore season full of hits, Matvei Michkov took another Tuesday, as the NHL fined him $2,000 for his second diving/embellishment infraction of the season.
The incident that led to the fine happened on March 24 against Columbus, when Michkov dropped to the ice after being cross-checked in the midsection by Blue Jackets defenseman Dante Fabbro at 17 minutes, 24 seconds of the second period. Fabbro (cross-checking) and Michkov (embellishment) were assessed minor penalties on the play. Michkov’s previous warning came from a Dec. 3 dive against the Buffalo Sabres.
The NHL implemented the fine system beginning in 2014-15 to more seriously penalize players — and teams — who repeatedly dive and embellish to try and draw penalties. After one warning, players are fined on a graduated scale for future offenses, beginning with a $2,000 fine on the second offense. A third offense carries a $3,000 fine, a fourth a $4,000 penalty, and a fifth infraction results in a maximum $5,000 fine, as well as a fine for the team’s coach.
While Michkov may have gone down a tad too easily, the minor penalty and subsequent fine seem harsh given that he was on the receiving end of a legitimate and retaliatory cross-check from Fabbro. Michkov’s immediate appeal to the referee with his hands up probably didn’t help his case.
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Michkov, 21, has been no stranger to discipline from officials, as he leads the Flyers with 69 penalty minutes and has, at times, displayed a short fuse.
The fine comes amid a largely frustrating season for Michkov individually, as the Russian winger’s production has dipped from 26 goals and 63 points as a rookie to 17 goals and 43 points entering Tuesday’s game. He has also dealt with questions, and a subsequent media firestorm, regarding his conditioning and relationship with new coach Rick Tocchet.
Michkov has been more productive and looked quicker since the Olympic break, as he has four goals and 14 points in 21 games since the restart. Over his last 11 games, Michkov has 10 points, including a three-point night (one goal, two assists) Friday in a massive win at the New York Islanders.