Swedish defenseman Robin Press made a clear choice in the spring of 2022 to remain in Russia, a decision he described as anything but easy. The moment called for weighing multiple paths, with concerns about leaving the country and the team he had grown to rely on. Press explained that the conversations among foreign players were intense and varied, yet he chose to stay and see how the situation would unfold. The defender emphasized that his priority was to stay true to his responsibilities and to the teammates who had trusted him since the season began in September. He noted that continuing to play for Severstal was a way to honor the commitment and the work already put in. The decision, while challenging, reflected a commitment to the season and to the partners on the rink. Press framed his stance as simply doing his duty, focusing on his role and the goals of the squad. (Sports24)
Since joining Severstal in the 2020/21 season, Press has become a staple on the blue line. In the previous campaign, he appeared in 64 regular season games, netting 11 goals and tallying 31 assists, figures that positioned him as the club’s most productive defenseman. His contributions extended into the playoffs, where he posted 2 goals and 4 assists over seven games, underscoring a consistent two-way impact that helped his team compete at every turn. Beyond the numbers, his presence on the ice offered stability and leadership when the outcome of tight matches hinged on disciplined defending and timely offensive pushes.
As hockey in the Kontinental Hockey League continues to evolve, the new season opened with a high-profile matchup that underscored the league’s competitive depth. The curtain-raiser on September 1 featured the clash between last season’s Gagarin Cup finalists, CSKA Moscow and Ak Bars Kazan, a game that highlighted the intensity and parity that teams across the KHL strive to achieve each year. For players like Press, such openers are more than calendar events; they are tests of conditioning, team chemistry, and the ability to adapt to the pace and physicality that define modern European hockey.
Former KHLers from North America who have played in Russia often share a nuanced view of life on and off the ice. One Canadian player who previously spent time in the league offered thoughts on what draws players back to the Russian hockey scene, noting the unique blend of tradition, fan support, and the demanding schedule. These personal reflections, while varied, collectively paint a picture of a league that rewards resilience and steady development while posing continual challenges in travel, language, and cultural adjustment. For a player like Press, adapting to these factors while maintaining high performance remains a central aspect of his professional journey and his ongoing contribution to Severstal. (Sports24)