Andrei Michkov, the father of 18-year-old Russian hockey star Matvei Michkov, has tragically passed away at the age of 51.
The Russian Hockey Federation announced on Twitter that Michkov was “passed away in unexplained circumstances. The federation offered its condolences to his family.
According to the Izvestia newspaper in Russia, preliminary data shows that Michkov “drowned in a pond on Old Believer Street.” Michkov reportedly left the apartment building that he rented and was said to be missing for two days before his body was found.
The 5-foot-10 Michkov is widely expected to be a top-three selection in the upcoming NHL Draft. Connor Bedard of the WHL’s Regina Pats is considered a generational prospect and the consensus choice to go first overall in the Draft.
Michkov led Russia to a gold medal at the 2021 Hlinka Gretzky Cup tournament, leading his team to a win over Slovakia. Michkov also won a silver medal with the Russians at the World U18 Championships, where they lost to Canada.
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NHL stories via Google! Follow Us
A star for SKA St. Petersburg of the KHL, Michkov is under contract with the club through 2026. But given his incredible skill set and high ceiling, it would be a surprise if Michkov was unselected after three picks.
Michkov was loaned to the Sochi HC club for the remainder of the 2022-23 season. Through 27 games, the 18-year-old phenom has nine goals and 20 points in 27 games. He also appeared in three games for SKA Saint Petersburg this season prior to joining Sochi HC.
Condolences to Michkov’s family and friends.
