In a new episode of the “On Air” program, Anton Klimanov, Natalia Clark, Leonid Weisfeld, and Gagarin Cup winner Anton Burdasov discussed the most pressing topics in the Continental Hockey League (KHL) over recent days.
Analyzing Ak Bars` Slow Start
The experts thoroughly analyzed Ak Bars` unexpectedly weak start to the season. Anton Burdasov expressed bewilderment, given that Ak Bars boasts one of the strongest rosters in the League, suggesting the team might have fallen into a “routine.” Leonid Weisfeld emphasized the urgent need for all team members—from management to players—to identify the true reasons for their performance slump. He noted that despite their high skill level, Ak Bars is playing overly cautious hockey when they should be more aggressive on the ice.
Anton Burdasov added that if the entire team demonstrates the same dedication and fight for every inch of ice as their fourth line (Fisenko-Dynyak-Katalevesky), Ak Bars` results are bound to improve.
Neftekhimik`s Phenomenal Start to the Season
Discussing Neftekhimik`s surprising success, Anton Burdasov attributed it to the coach`s leadership and a strong team dynamic. He noted that players aren`t afraid to make mistakes and actively try new combinations, indicating trust in coach Grishin`s system. Leonid Weisfeld contrasted Grishin`s current, more high-risk style with the systemic and cautious play Neftekhimik exhibited under Oleg Leontyev. Weisfeld stressed the importance of players fully believing in the new coach`s philosophy.
Vadim Epanchintsev`s Departure from Sibir
Regarding the reasons behind Sibir`s parting ways with Vadim Epanchintsev, Leonid Weisfeld suggested a potential lack of unity between the coaching staff and club management. He questioned the decision-making process for transfers, specifically regarding goaltender Dömöng. Anton Burdasov wryly pointed out that the goaltender failed to perform, yet the coach was dismissed. Weisfeld further commented that Sibir`s transfer policy looked decent on paper when individual players were assessed, but the effectiveness of their combination became questionable, and the performance of Vladimir Tkachyov, on whom high hopes were placed, has been rather mediocre.
Anatoly Golyshev`s Return to Avtomobilist
To conclude their discussion, the experts also touched upon the return of veteran forward Anatoly Golyshev to Avtomobilist`s lineup.
Neville Woodall