CSKA Moscow advanced to the final stages of the Western Conference by outlasting St. Petersburg SKA in a decisive meeting that sealed a spot in the Continental Hockey League playoffs. The series’s sixth game, played in Moscow, saw the army team secure a clean 3-0 victory over their rival from the North, paving the way for a climactic collision in the Gagarin Cup final.
For CSKA, the scorers were Maxim Sorkin, Konstantin Okulov, and Darren Dietz. Their goals established a strong, disciplined performance that reflected the team’s craft and resilience throughout the run of the series. By taking the sixth game, CSKA completed the series with a 4-2 tally, demonstrating depth in scoring and a steady defensive approach when most needed.
In the championship bracket, CSKA will meet Kazan’s Ak Bars, who defeated Avangard Omsk 4-1 in the Eastern Conference final to reach the last stage of the tournament. The current holders of the Gagarin Cup now face a new challenge as Ak Bars looks to claim the title for themselves and add another storied chapter to their franchise history. Ak Bars has already lifted the trophy on three separate occasions in the league, underscoring the rich competitive tradition surrounding this matchup.
Beyond the on ice action, there were reports from various media outlets about personnel matters within SKA. It was noted that forward Nikita Gusev was temporarily suspended from the main squad during the series with CSKA due to an issue related to beer consumption. The organization indicated that a path of support and rehabilitation would be provided, and the player was expected to rejoin the team in due course as those efforts continue behind the scenes. The news highlighted the ongoing responsibilities teams carry in maintaining player wellness amid the pressures of a deep playoff run.
Separately, the Continental Hockey League club Dynamo Minsk announced through its official channels that Dmitry Kvartalnov would take on the role of head coach for the Belarusian side. The appointment reflects Dynamo Minsk’s commitment to leadership stability and strategic direction as the league evolves and expands its competitive footprint across the region. Kvartalnov brings a wealth of experience to the bench, and his arrival aligns with the league’s emphasis on strong coaching, player development, and tactical adaptability as teams pursue top-tier results and enduring success.