McMichael took a massive step forward with his game in 2023-24 after Niklas Backstrom was ruled out for the season and earned himself a two-year contract extension worth $4.2 million ($2.1M AAV). The 23-year-old averaged 5:21 TOI/GP more than his previous career high last season which led to his 18 goals and 33 points in 80 games played.

McMichael will return to face the Lightning on Saturday after missing the last two games with an illness. He is expected to reclaim his role as Washington's second-line centre. McMichael has six goals and seven assists in 28 games this season.