Lanny McDonald presents the Hall ring to Sergei Zubov for the 2019 Induction Ceremony at the Hockey Hall Of Fame (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
Russian hockey has always been known for producing world-class players who leave an indelible mark on the sport. Today, two young prodigies are grabbing headlines: Matvei Michkov and Ivan Demidov. Both are seen as the future of Russian hockey, and no one understands their potential better than hockey legend Sergei Zubov.
In a recent interview with RG, Zubov shared his thoughts on the next generation of Russian hockey, the pressure on young stars, and what it takes to become a legend.
Michkov’s Unwavering Focus and Drive
Matvei Michkov is one of the most talked-about young players in Russian hockey, and Zubov had plenty to say about him. Known for his incredible skill and relentless drive, Michkov is quickly becoming a standout player. "He is a very talented athlete. He is persistent and daring, wants to be a leader, and wants to win. He needs to have the opportunity to demonstrate all these qualities daily," Zubov remarked, underlining Michkov’s deep-rooted ambition to succeed.
"He is goal-oriented and constantly wants to score and win," Zubov added, explaining that Michkov’s focus on scoring sets him apart from many other players who often look for extra passes or hesitate to take opportunities.
In fact, Zubov noted that Michkov’s mentality is something many teams could benefit from.
"Our team [Sochi] is currently struggling because the guys sometimes look for extra passes. We do not use opportunities to create scoring chances—unlike Michkov, of course. He is very focused on this."
As Michkov develops, his physicality is also improving. Zubov emphasized that this was just a matter of time. "He is getting stronger physically every year. It was only a matter of time. Now, he has entered a league that monitors this," Zubov said, highlighting how Michkov is growing into a more complete player who can handle the physical demands of top-level hockey.
Beyond physical and mental toughness, Michkov’s flashy goals have also caught the eye of fans. Zubov addressed the buzz around Michkov’s spectacular moves, including lacrosse-style goals, saying, "It doesn’t matter how the puck crosses the goal line. The puck is in the net, the numbers on the scoreboard have changed. This is the most critical part of the game."
Zubov’s pragmatic view underscores that, despite the fanfare surrounding Michkov’s creative style, results on the scoreboard remain paramount.
Ivan Demidov’s Growth
While Michkov is already demonstrating his leadership and goal-scoring abilities in the NHL, Ivan Demidov is another player who has shown immense promise. Zubov sees Demidov as a talented player but noted that consistency will be key to his long-term success. "He is very gifted, and his talent is similar to Michkov's," Zubov said. “But he needs consistency so that he can grow as a player in every game."
One of the crucial elements in Demidov’s development is playing alongside veterans like Evgeny Kuznetsov. Zubov emphasized how beneficial this mentorship can be for younger players.
"In hockey, you have to learn constantly. Not just watch on TV or listen to the coach. Young guys need to be around people who will pass on all these little details necessary for growth," Zubov explained.
Learning from seasoned players gives prospects like Demidov the practical knowledge they need to take their game to the next level.
Russian Hockey’s Future: A Blend of Talent and Tradition
Both Michkov and Demidov represent the future of Russian hockey, but they are following in the footsteps of legends like Zubov himself, Pavel Datsyuk, and other Russian greats. Zubov touched on how the legacy of these past players continues to shape the sport.
Reflecting on his own journey, Zubov discussed how difficult it was for him when he first debuted in North America. "It doesn't matter how you debut in the league. The main thing is to do it and gain a foothold. Only your game and results can help you do this. There is no other way," he said.
These experiences helped shape Zubov into the player he became, and his story serves as an example for young Russian players like Michkov and Demidov as they pursue their NHL dreams.
Learning from the Greats: Pavel Datsyuk’s Hall of Fame Legacy
Zubov also reflected on the importance of hard work, using Pavel Datsyuk’s recent Hall of Fame induction as a prime example. "I am very happy for Pavel. You generally rejoice at such moments, especially if these are players with whom you spent some time. Pavel and I crossed paths only on opposite sides of the ice, but he is an unsurpassed hard worker," Zubov said.
He emphasized that Datsyuk’s success was not just due to his natural talent, but his relentless dedication to improving.
"He raised himself to another level with his work and his persistence," Zubov remarked.
This work ethic is something that Zubov hopes to see in the next generation of Russian stars. Players like Michkov and Demidov have the talent, but it will be their dedication and ability to push through challenges that ultimately define their careers.
A New Era for Russian Hockey
As Michkov and Demidov continue to develop, they represent a new era of Russian hockey—one that blends the flash and creativity of modern stars with the work ethic and determination of legends like Zubov and Datsyuk. With players like these on the rise, Russian hockey’s future looks bright.
Zubov’s insights into their development not only provide a window into what makes these young players special but also emphasize the critical elements of consistency, physicality, and leadership that they will need to become stars on the world stage. According to Zubov, the torch is being passed, and Russian hockey fans have plenty to look forward to.
Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.
