Veterans on display. Week 4 top imports
Kampfer, Jaskin lead the way for Traktor and Ak Bars, while Press keeps on producing despite Metallurg’s lack of success. KHL.ru presents the best players from each country.
USA
D, Traktor, 3 G, 4 (0+4) points
Steven Kampfer of Traktor was named the Best Defenseman of the week for the second time in his KHL career after an impressive performance over three games. Kampfer contributed 4 points, all assists, and demonstrated his defensive capabilities by blocking six shots and intercepting a pass. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the ice helped solidify Traktor’s defense while generating offense from the blue line.
Kampfer’s latest accolade comes after previously earning the same honor while playing for Ak Bars during the 15th week of the 2021-2022 season. His consistent presence on the ice, combined with his leadership and experience, continues to make him one of the standout defensemen in the league. With his well-rounded game, Kampfer has once again shown why he's a key player for Traktor and a crucial figure in the KHL’s defensive elite.
Canada
D, Sibir, 2 G, 3 (0+3) points, +1
For the first time in his career, Trevor Murphy of Sibir has been named the Best Defenseman of the month, other to posting standout performances last week. In two games, Murphy recorded 3 assists, and posted a plus-1 rating, showing his ability to impact both ends of the ice. His performances last week were part of a larger trend, as he collected 12 points (2 goals, 10 assists) over 11 games in September.
Murphy’s contributions have been key to Sibir’s strong start to the season, helping solidify their place as a top contender. In addition to his point totals, Murphy also tallied 31 shots on goal, blocked nine shots, and recorded two takeaways throughout the month. Sibir is enjoying a promising season, and Murphy’s leadership and consistency on defense play a crucial role in their success.
Sweden
D, Metallurg, 3 G, 4 (0+4) points, +1
A fixture in this column, the Swedish blueliner had another productive week despite his team’s lack of success. Press started off the week with a pair of helpers as Magnitka defeated Salavat Yulaev at home – he also had a plus-2 differential that night. Press repeated the feat two nights later, but this time Metallurg lost to Spartak (3:4). On Friday, Metallurg returned to action, this time against Ak Bars, but Press failed to score any point and accumulated a minus-3 rating. All in all, Press had an excellent week, but Metallurg is struggling to repeat last year’s success.
Czechia/Russia
F, Ak Bars, 3 G, 3 (2+1) points, +1
The dynamic forward is currently on a scoring streak that stretches out from the previous season and is currently leading Ak Bars with five goals, trailing only Nic Petan and Artyom Galimov in points scored. Jaskin had points in all played games last week, with a tally against Lada and Avtomobilist, and an assist in Ak Bars’ road win over Metallurg. The Tatarstan franchise won all three contests as it’s currently on a six-game winning streak. Ak Bars is, as usual, one of the top clubs in the Eastern Conference, and will be pushing hard for a long playoff run this season, with Jaskin’s production key for its success.
