Former Russian national team head coach Vladimir Krikunov has shared his analysis of the key strengths of both finalists in the current Gagarin Cup playoffs, where Lokomotiv Yaroslavl will face Ak Bars Kazan.
When asked to name the main strong points of Lokomotiv and Ak Bars, Krikunov said:
“Lokomotiv is a system-based team, very balanced across all lines—from the goaltender to the forwards. Everything is sharp, stable, and refined down to the smallest details. In my view, Hartley has slightly restructured the team after Nikitin: Igor paid a lot of attention to defense. I wouldn’t say it was overly defensive hockey, but Lokomotiv looked organized, conceded few goals, and always scored when needed.”
“Ak Bars have started playing very consistently, scoring a lot and showing great efficiency. Yet at the same time, they can win 1-0. Kazan is a battle-hardened playoff team. And let’s not forget that among their advisors is Zinetula Bilyaletdinov—an experienced man who helps the coaching staff and offers advice. Ak Bars are now playing as if Bilyaletdinov is at the helm. True, they don’t have a line or players who can decide a power play 100% like Zinoviev, Morozov, Zaripov, or Kapanen. But now, all four forward lines in Kazan can score. You never know where the danger will come from. It’s going to be a fascinating series!”
The final series of the Gagarin Cup between Lokomotiv and Ak Bars begins tomorrow, May 11, in Yaroslavl.