Neftekhimik travels to Omsk trying to secure a top-8 spot!

Tonight’s only game promises to be a high-stakes matchup as Neftekhimik takes on Avangard in Omsk. Neftekhimik will be looking to secure a top-eight spot in the Eastern Conference after their sensational win over Metallurg just two days ago, where d-man Ilya Khokhlov returned to his former club and scored a hat-trick. The defenseman will be eager to build on his recent success and lead his team to another victory.

However, Avangard will be determined to fight back after their disappointing 1:3 loss at home to Salavat Yulaev. The Hawks will be looking to bounce back and earn a crucial win over Neftekhimik. Although Avangard has won twice over Nizhnekamsk this season, the Wolves were able to secure a win in their previous matchup.

In addition to recent form, the history between the two teams is worth considering, as Neftekhimik’s latest win in Omsk was back in 2017. Avangard’s blueliner Damir Sharipzyanov opened the score for the Wolves that night. This fact adds an extra layer of intrigue to the game, and both teams will be eager to come out on top.

16:30: Avangard (35-21-7, 6^th E) vs Neftekhimik (31-28-5, 8^th E)

About the game

Avangard enters the fifth game of an eight-match home series following a loss to Salavat Yulaev on Wednesday (1:3).

Neftekhimik, at its last road game of its regular season schedule, ends a two-game road trip and won its previous three matches.

Avangard has defeated Neftekhimik twice this season (3:2, 3:0) and lost once (1:2). The Wolves had their most recent win in Omsk on Dec 29, 2017 (3:2 OT).

Avangard’s forward Reid Boucher is on a six-game scoring streak with 7 (3+4) points over that span.

Avangard’s forward Arseny Gritsyuk is on a four-game scoring streak, with 4 (1+3) points.

Avangard’s defenseman Semyon Chistyakov had an assist in each of his previous three games.

Injury list

Avangard: Stanislav Galimov, Nail Yakupov.

Neftekhimik: Emil Garipov.