LATEST | Michkov reveals Bedard's family's extended heartwarming gesture: The Canadian hospitality on full display

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Cooper Godin
September 4, 2023 (4:26 PM)

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Matvei Michkov may not be coming over to play for the Philadelphia Flyers until 2026, but on the international stage, he's formed a rivalry with North Vancouver native Connor Bedard.

Before Russia's ban by the International Ice Hockey Federation, Michkov and Bedard went head-to-head at the 2021 World U18 Championship. The pair faced each other in the gold medal game, with Canada walking away victorious, while Michkov was named tournament MVP.

After Michkov's father passed away, Bedard reached out to him to offer his condolences. Then, in a recent interview in Russia, Michkov said that Bedard's parents spoke with him at the NHL Entry Draft and said that if he's ever in Vancouver, their door is open and he's welcome to come to their home.

"His family came up to me...they told me if I ever come to Vancouver, I have a home to stay...I told him [Bedard] you aren't likely to be in Russia but if you are any time you have my number. I'm always happy to see you." Michkov said.

It's always great to hear stories like this and it's going to be fantastic to see these two do battle in the National Hockey League once Michkov comes over to North America. Because they're in different conferences, they'll only face each other twice a year, but those games will most definitely be must-watch TV.