"Topper played road hockey?" "Get him to bat 9th tonight": NHL fans react to wholesome interaction between Rob Thomson and Matvei Michkov

Philadelphia is a sports town, one that Matvei Michkov will soon take by storm. The city is home to the Philadelphia Flyers, Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia 76ers, and more, all of which play in front of dedicated fans. There is a strong bond among the teams, as evidenced by Phillies manager Rob Thomson welcoming the Flyers star to the city on Monday.

Michkov responded by giving him a gifted hockey stick. The manager said to the player:

"I'm Rob Thomson, nice to meet you. For me? So this is a funny story. I used to play hockey on the ice right-handed. When we played road hockey, we called it road hockey in Canada, I shoot lefty. For what reason? I don't know."

Michkov promised to make Thomson a right-handed stick so that he could shoot either way he wanted. This interaction had Philadelphia fans buzzing in the comments.

"Topper the Ambassador! Got to love it!" one fan exclaimed.

"This kid is gonna be the real deal!!" another added.

"So thrilled to have you in Philly, Matvei! Can't wait to see you bring the heat to the ice!" one said.

"This is a wholesome interaction between a grandson and his pop pop," another joked.

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Matvei Michkov tosses ceremonial first pitch

Philadelphia Flyers star Matvei Michkov was given the honor to throw the ceremonial first pitch by the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday.

Matvei Michkov tossed the first pitch (Imagn)

After meeting Rob Thomson for the first time, he went out on the field and delivered a strike to the catcher waiting at home plate. Fans cheered him on, showcasing how they might treat him when he's on the ice this year.

Regrettably, the Phillies could not keep the good vibes rolling. The New York Yankees blasted six home runs en route to a 14-4 drubbing, taking the opening game of a key series for both squads.