Mike Richards

Mike Richards is a Canadian center on the Philadelphia Flyers.

Richards was drafted by Philadelphia in 2003, after a successful career with the Kitchener Rangers in the OHL, in which he won the Memorial Cup in 2003. Richards scored in his first NHL game on October 5, 2005. Later that season, he scored a hat trick, including two short handed goals.

In 2007-08, despite only playing 73 games, Richards led the Flyers with 75 points. Richards is a rare combination of offensive talent and defensive skill. His scoring ability and physical toughness have drawn comparisons to Bobby Clarke, who rejuvenated the franchise in the 1970s. Richards signed a 12 year contract for $69 million in 2007.