Rempal’s surge and Gross’ growth. Week 22 top imports
Rempal keeps on scoring, Gross increases his stature with Dinamo Minsk. KHL.ru presents the best players from each country.
Canada
F, Salavat Yulaev, 2 G, 4 (3+1) points, +2
With Joshua Leivo out with an injury for Salavat Yulaev, Sheldon Rempal stepped up and provided the offensive production the Ufa franchise needed without its top sniper. Last week, Rempal scored goals in both games, starting with a double in Salavat Yulaev’s high-scoring affair against Metallurg (6:4). Three days later, the Canadian forward – in his first season abroad – had a goal and an assist as Salavat Yulaev defeated Neftekhimik at home (4:1). In both encounters, Rempal netted the game-winner for Ufa. With the postseason approaching, Rempal’s shape will be key for Salavat Yulaev.
US
D, Dinamo Minsk, 2 G, 2 (0+2) points, +1
The American blueliner is becoming more and more important for Dinamo Minsk, and last week he had a striking performance in the Bisons’ win over HC Sochi at home (5:3). With HC Sochi blowing away a 3:0 advantage in the game, Gross posted a couple of helpers as Dinamo Minsk came out with a victory in the third period. Gross was then left out of the scoresheet in Dinamo Minsk’s losing effort against Lokomotiv two days later (0:2). With the playoffs getting closer, Gross’ importance to his team will only grow.
Slovakia
D, Lokomotiv, 2 G, 1 (1+0) point, +1
The Slovak towering defenseman only scored once last week, but his goal sealed the deal for the Railwaymen in their home win over Dinamo Minsk (2:0). Gernat netted his fourth goal of the season and had a strong showing in more than seventeen minutes of time on ice. The Slovak defenseman also had a plus-1 rating in Lokomotiv’s loss to Spartak (4:5), further confirming his worth and exceptional play at both ends of the rink. In his second year in the league, Gernat is doing extremely well and is one of the key figures for the league’s leading team.
