Second round to start for the other two series!

The second round continues, with Traktor facing Dinamo Minsk and Dynamo Moscow hosting Ak Bars. It’s the first time that Traktor clashes with the Belarusians in the Gagarin Cup playoffs, and overall the first time for the Minsk franchise to advance past the first round. Dynamo Moscow and Ak Bars, instead, last met in the elimination stage back in 2009 – sixteen years ago, with the Kazan side claiming the final victory.

14:00: Traktor vs Dinamo Minsk

Series stand
0-0

Series history
It’s the first time the two sides meet in the elimination stage.

About the game
The teams faced twice in this year’s regular season, with each side claiming one win (4:3 OT, 1:3).

Traktor’s forward Semyon Der-Arguchintsev enters the quarterfinals stage on a four-game scoring streak, with 5 (2+3) points over that stretch.

Dinamo Minsk’s defenseman Xavier Ouellet had an assist in each of his previous three matches.

Milestone alert
Traktor’s defenseman Grigory Dronov lines up for his 100^th appearance in the Gagarin Cup playoffs.

16:30: Dynamo Moscow vs Ak Bars

Series stand
0-0

Series history
2009. Semifinals meet-up. Ak Bars defeated Dynamo Moscow 4-2.

About the game
The teams faced twice in this year’s regular season, with Ak Bars claiming both games (4:5, 5:6).

Ak Bars’ goalie Timur Bilyalov enters the second round on a 75:02 shutout streak.

Injury list
Ak Bars: Yegor Babenko.