Ilya Mikheyev #95 of the Chicago Blackhawks high fives teammates after scoring a goal against the Colorado Avalanche (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
On October 10, Ilya Mikheyev, a player who had been traded from the Vancouver Canucks to the Chicago Blackhawks earlier that summer, quietly marked his 30th birthday. The season had just kicked off, and the team was focused on their early games. There was little time for any kind of celebration. Mikheyev, who had spent much of his previous seasons in Vancouver, was still adjusting to life with a new team. While a few of his teammates took a moment to acknowledge his special day during the morning skate, Mikheyev’s attention was entirely on the game ahead, marking the beginning of his latest chapter in the NHL.
As the season has progressed, Mikheyev’s presence on the ice has been undeniable. Despite the Chicago Blackhawks’ struggles—currently sitting in second-to-last place in both the Western Conference and the NHL overall—Mikheyev has managed to make his mark. With 10 goals and 19 points to his name, he has proven himself as a significant contributor, especially given the team’s offensive challenges. His role extends beyond just his goal-scoring ability, as Mikheyev plays a crucial part in the team’s penalty kill.
His plus-minus rating of -2 stands out when compared to many of his teammates, reflecting his solid, consistent play even on a team with significant defensive and offensive struggles. For context, Nick Foligno has a -12, and the highly touted rookie Connor Bedard has a -22 rating. Mikheyev’s ability to maintain a relatively neutral or positive rating is especially impressive on a team struggling to keep pucks out of their own net.
Chemistry on the Ice
One of the key factors in Mikheyev’s success this season has been his developing chemistry with winger Teuvo Teräväinen. Since joining the Blackhawks, Mikheyev has formed an impressive connection with Teräväinen, who is known for his high-level playmaking ability. The two players have consistently linked up to create scoring chances, with Mikheyev scoring most of his goals off assists from Teräväinen. Mikheyev has expressed his appreciation for the way Teräväinen moves the puck and sets up opportunities.
“Just open up for him correctly, and you’ll definitely get the puck comfortably,” Mikheyev explained in a one-on-one RG interview, highlighting Teräväinen’s ability to create space and provide perfect passes in key situations.
Their on-ice synergy has been one of the few bright spots for the Blackhawks this season, and Mikheyev knows that their combined efforts will be essential for the team moving forward.
Off the ice, Mikheyev has also found himself developing a bond with rookie Connor Bedard, a relationship that transcends the rink. Despite a significant age gap—Mikheyev is 11 years older than Bedard—the two have become close, spending time together outside of practices and games. Mikheyev is impressed by Bedard’s work ethic and the maturity he brings to the table, particularly for such a young player.
“Connor is always the first to arrive at training,” Mikheyev said.
“He stays on the ice after the sessions and works hard in the gym. He doesn’t put on airs and does all the work young players are expected to do, like collecting pucks. It's rare to see a first overall pick so grounded and focused.”
Mikheyev’s praise for Bedard is a testament to the young player’s potential, and Mikheyev’s insight into his development shows that Bedard is already well on his way to becoming a major asset for the Blackhawks.
Mikheyev doesn’t just stop at praising his current teammates; he also reflects fondly on his past experiences with elite players like Auston Matthews during his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Mikheyev recalls how Matthews, a perennial Hart Trophy candidate, left a lasting impression on him with his skills and work ethic.
“Matthews was on a different level,” Mikheyev recalled. “You’d see things and think, ‘Why am I even playing hockey?’”
Mikheyev admits that it was sometimes difficult to keep up with Matthews' natural ability, but he appreciates how Matthews' high standard motivated him to raise his own game. Mikheyev continues to be impressed with Bedard’s progress, acknowledging that the young star is already demonstrating a similar drive and dedication.
Leadership in the Locker Room
The Chicago Blackhawks have a mix of veteran leadership and younger players, and Mikheyev has taken note of how the veterans influence the team's culture. While the team is still in the process of rebuilding, having experienced leaders like Nick Foligno and Pat Maroon has proven invaluable. Mikheyev views these players not only as teammates but as essential figures in the team’s locker room dynamic. Foligno’s leadership has been especially important in guiding the team through difficult times, and Mikheyev is quick to acknowledge the influence Foligno has had on him personally.
"Nick Foligno, Pat Maroon—those are two pillars," Mikheyev said, bringing attention to the importance of veteran presence on a young team.
Maroon, with his three Stanley Cup rings, brings not just experience but also an infectious work ethic. Mikheyev speaks about Maroon’s unique ability to bring energy to the rink, both in practice and during games. His passion for the game, Mikheyev notes, is something that younger players, including himself, can learn from.
Mikheyev has also spent a considerable amount of time with defensemen Alec Martinez and Connor Murphy, both of whom bring a sense of stability to the squad. While Mikheyev’s focus has primarily been on his role with the forwards, he recognizes the crucial contributions that Martinez and Murphy make on the defensive side. Their ability to calm the game and manage difficult situations has given Mikheyev confidence in the team's potential as they move forward.
“Maroon was a nuisance to play against, but now I see the value in having someone like him on your side,” Mikheyev continued. “His work ethic, his passion for the game, it’s contagious.”
Maroon’s leadership style has rubbed off on Mikheyev, who has begun to embrace a more vocal role, helping to guide younger players in a similar way.
Mikheyev also mentions how the younger players look up to these veterans, appreciating how the leadership group, despite the challenges of rebuilding, manages to keep everyone motivated and focused on the long-term goal. Mikheyev sees the presence of these veterans as crucial to the team’s development, and he believes their influence will pay off in the future.
Change Behind the Bench
The Blackhawks also underwent a major coaching change, with Anders Sorensen taking the reins as head coach. Sorensen, the first Swedish head coach in NHL history, has brought a fresh perspective to the team. Mikheyev, who has played for several different coaches throughout his career, has praised Sorensen for his calm demeanor and ability to adapt the team’s style of play. Sorensen has introduced elements of European hockey, particularly the emphasis on puck possession and a more strategic approach to the game. Mikheyev has found that this new approach aligns well with his own style of play.
This shift in philosophy has been welcomed by Mikheyev, who feels comfortable in the system and believes it plays to the strengths of many of the team’s players.
Despite Sorensen’s relative inexperience as an NHL head coach, Mikheyev has seen immediate results from his leadership. Sorensen’s willingness to adapt and learn from his players has resonated with Mikheyev, who values this level of communication and openness. Mikheyev has praised Sorensen’s humility and his understanding that the team needs to work together to succeed.
“The older players are really stepping up to help him out,” Mikheyev added. “The first meeting after he was appointed, he emphasized that we needed to help him because it’s a big challenge for him too. If he succeeds, it might open doors for other Europeans, including Russians, to become head coaches in the NHL.”
Mikheyev’s belief in Sorensen’s potential reflects the overall optimism in the Blackhawks’ locker room. While the team is still in a rebuilding phase, Mikheyev feels confident that Sorensen’s leadership will play a key role in their future success.
Team Challenges and Discipline
The Blackhawks’ struggles this season have been multifaceted, with inconsistencies in both their offensive and defensive play. While the team has had impressive victories, such as wins over the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche, they have also faced significant challenges in maintaining focus and discipline. Mikheyev, who is no stranger to team dynamics, has been vocal about the need for the Blackhawks to find greater consistency in their performances.
“We play well for a couple of games, but then we lose focus for a few,” he admitted. “We need to be more disciplined and simplify our game at times. Our team is young and still lacks experience, which leads to losses by one or two goals.”
Mikheyev’s comments underscore the gap in experience that the Blackhawks are facing, with many players still learning how to manage the pressure of the NHL. He believes that as the team matures and gains more experience, they will start to find a more consistent rhythm and avoid the lapses that have cost them games.
Mikheyev also mentions the importance of discipline, not only in terms of avoiding penalties, but also in maintaining focus and composure throughout the course of a game. For Mikheyev, playing simple hockey and staying within the team’s system is key to success. Despite the setbacks, Mikheyev remains optimistic about the team’s trajectory and is committed to doing his part in helping the Blackhawks improve.
“We need to keep pushing and grow as a team,” concluded Mikheyev. “It’s a work in progress, but we’re taking steps forward.”
His positive outlook reflects the mindset of many on the team: while challenges remain, there is a collective belief that the Blackhawks are on the right path and that the results will come with time and effort.
Reflecting on The Rift Between Pettersson and Miller in Vancouver
Looking back on his time with the Vancouver Canucks, Ilya Mikheyev’s reflections are mixed with both fond memories and challenging moments. Mikheyev joined the Canucks in 2021, bringing his speed and versatility to the team. A notable point of tension during his time in Vancouver revolved around the locker room relationship between two of the Canucks’ star players, Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller. The media often highlighted these moments of friction, but Mikheyev remained focused on the bigger picture, which ultimately centered around the team’s success.
Mikheyev, a player who has always prided himself on professionalism, was careful not to become embroiled in any locker room drama. When asked about the situation between Pettersson and Miller, Mikheyev speaks highly of both players, underscoring their strengths and the value they brought to the team.
“Miller is a great guy,” Mikheyev begins. “He’s a machine—he never stops. Whether on or off the ice, he’s a constant motivator for the team.”
Mikheyev appreciates Miller's relentless work ethic and his leadership qualities. Miller’s fiery nature and never-quit attitude on the ice often helped lift the team during challenging times, and Mikheyev acknowledges the value of having a leader like him. Miller’s leadership was felt not just in his play but in his interactions with teammates, motivating them to push through adversity.
When it comes to Elias Pettersson, Mikheyev takes a different approach. Pettersson, who is known for his reserved demeanor, doesn’t exhibit the same vocal leadership that Miller does, but Mikheyev sees the Swedish center’s leadership in a different light.
Mikheyev admires Pettersson’s consistency and the way he handles pressure. For Mikheyev, Pettersson’s style of leadership is just as important as Miller’s more outspoken approach, as it adds a different dimension to the team's dynamic.
Despite the media's focus on any potential tension between Pettersson and Miller, Mikheyev chose not to get involved in the internal matters of the team.
“It’s no longer my concern,” Mikheyev said, acknowledging the complexity of team dynamics that often goes unnoticed by the public.
While Mikheyev recognizes the challenges that come with high-pressure environments and the personalities that emerge within them, he emphasizes that his focus has always been on doing his job and supporting his teammates in achieving success on the ice.
“At the end of the day,” Mikheyev added, “it’s about the game and what we can accomplish as a team.”
For Mikheyev, the game itself and the team’s future success were always more important than any personal or internal conflicts that may have arisen. His ability to stay grounded amid these challenges was a testament to his professionalism and commitment to the collective goal.
Igor Rabiner has written for Sport-Express, the biggest Russian sports website, since 1994. He has covered seven FIFA World Cups, seven Winter Olympics, and three Summer Olympics. He is the author of 28 books with total sales of over 500,000 copies. He won an AIPS Sport Media Award for best column and interviewed exclusively Pele, Wayne Gretzky, Franz Beckenbauer, Alex Ovechkin and many other soccer, ice hockey, and tennis superstars. From 2016 to 2021, he has regularly contributed to the Russian version of NHL.com. Has contributed to The Guardian, British soccer magazine The Blizzard, and other world publications. One of the authors of the encyclopedia 'Kings of Ice," which came out in North America in 2002. From 2013 to 2021, Rabiner was a co-owner and teacher in a private sports journalism school in Russia. He has 56,500 followers on X and over 25,000 readers on Telegram, Facebook and Instagram.
