CSKA Moscow pulled off a solid win over Ak Bars Kazan in the second game of the KHL final playoff series. The showdown took place in Kazan, and the capital team claimed a 3-0 victory that echoed through the series’ rhythm. Three players found the back of the net for the Red-Blues this time: Vladislav Kamenev, Yaroslav Dyblenko, and Mikhail Grigorenko. The win evened the Gagarin Cup final at one game apiece and set up a tense deciding clash later in the week. The decisive third encounter is slated for April 21, with Moscow hosting the pivotal matchup.
In the broader context of the season, CSKA’s leadership remained stable as head coach Sergei Fedorov confirmed his continuation at the helm for the upcoming campaign. Despite rumors linking him to NHL interest, including from the Columbus Blue Jackets, Fedorov reaffirmed his commitment to guiding CSKA through another championship push. Fedorov’s long association with CSKA runs deep, and his resilience as a player-turned-coach has helped shape the team’s structure and competitive mentality. During his time in the league, he has spent substantial stints with CSKA, as well as stints with the Detroit Red Wings, Anaheim Ducks, Columbus, Washington Capitals, and Metallurg Magnitogorsk, contributing to a rich, worldwide pro hockey resume.
On the player side, Dmitry Gurkov, previously with the KHL club Barys, has publicly opted to decline Russian citizenship to pursue opportunities with the Kazakh national program. His decision underscores the evolving dynamics of player eligibility and national representation within professional hockey circles, where national team ambitions can intersect with club commitments and personal goals.