Vladimir Krikunov, the former head coach of the Russian national hockey team, and Roman Rotenberg, who leads SKA St. Petersburg, publicly supported the decision to remove Nikita Gusev from the squad due to alcohol-related issues. Rotenberg stressed that it was the right move: if a player has already been drinking, the priority is to focus on the game and give the team a chance to compete at the highest level. He added that once a player is back in good form, the team will expect him to contribute, and the game plan will require his full commitment in the coming matches. (Источник: Metaratings.ru).
Earlier, Match TV reported that Gusev had been sidelined from the primary lineup because of a pattern of beer consumption. The plan, as described, is for the player to receive ongoing support and rehabilitation initiatives. The aim is to help him regain form while the squad pursues its ambitious goals in the season, ensuring he can rejoin the group when the moment is right and under medical or coaching supervision. (Источник: Metaratings.ru).
In the Western Conference final of the Continental Hockey League (KHL), SKA and CSKA Moscow have split the first four games, with the series tied at 2-2. The fifth game is scheduled to take place on April 10 in St. Petersburg, with a start time of 19:30 Moscow time. This matchup has drawn substantial attention from fans across Russia and Canada, highlighting the enduring rivalry and the high stakes as the two powerhouses push toward the Gagarin Cup. (Источник: Metaratings.ru).
Looking ahead, the field is shaping up for a potential lineup shift. The teams known for their deep rosters and tactical coaching will be aiming to seize control in the next bout, with the winner of the SKA vs. CSKA clash awaiting the victor of the Eastern Conference final. The narrative around Gusev’s situation adds an additional layer of complexity, as the organization balances competitive ambitions with player welfare and long-term performance. (Источник: Metaratings.ru).