The KHL match between "Traktor" and SKA is set to take place on March 18, 2025, at 17:00 Moscow time at the LA "Traktor im. V. Belousova" arena in Chelyabinsk. This highly anticipated encounter brings together two teams showcasing different strengths and recent performances.
Currently, "Traktor" stands confidently at the top of the Eastern Conference, having garnered 92 points from 66 matches. They enjoy a five-point lead over their closest competitor, "Salavat Yulaev," which places them firmly on the path to potentially dominating the regular season. Recently, "Traktor" has been on fire, winning four out of their last five games, including convincing victories against teams like "Barys" (8:0) and "Severstal" (5:1). The only blemish came when they faced "Ak Bars," suffering a significant defeat (2:6), but they bounced back with another victory against "Avangard" (5:4), showcasing their resilience.
One standout player for "Traktor" has been their goalkeeper, Zak Fucale, who boasts impressive stats with 92.3% of shots saved and maintains a reliability factor of 1.69. During their first encounter with SKA this season, Fucale achieved a shutout, blocking 38 shots, which speaks to his capabilities. "Traktor's" defense has remained one of the league's most formidable, having only conceded 146 goals this season, ensuring they have one of the best defensive records around.
On the other hand, SKA finds itself sixth in the Western Conference standings, with 79 points from 65 matches. They are currently three points shy of the playoff positions. They too have seen recent success, securing four consecutive victories, including wins against formidable opponents like "CSKA" (3:2 OT), "Metallurg" (4:2), and "Dinamo Minsk" (3:1), and most recently shutting out "Sochi" (2:0).
Despite their offensive strength—leading the league with 229 goals scored—their defensive issues have also been pronounced, allowing 195 goals, making them one of the least defensively reliable teams. They have managed to improve their play on both ends of the ice recently, particularly their goalkeeping, which had previously faltered. Young goalkeeper Egor Zavragin has recently showcased great form as well, contributing to SKA's successes, including the notable shutout against Sochi.
Historically, "Traktor" seems to have the upper hand over SKA, having forced them to go goalless (0:3) during their previous matchup earlier this season. This record reflects both the defensive prowess of "Traktor" and potential vulnerabilities SKA may continue to face. Chelyabinsk's team is also noted for converting 22.3% of their power-play opportunities, which underlines their skill set when it matters most.
Betting analysis shows odds are favoring "Traktor" with bookmakers placing their win at 1.70, with draws at 4.20 and SKA at 2.98. A total over 5.5 looks appealing as both teams typically engage in high-scoring matches, with recent performances indicating scoring patterns favoring both teams’ capabilities to find the net.
With multiple offensive threats like Vyacheslav Shabanov of Traktor, who recently scored and assisted two goals, fans can expect to see significant attacking play. Skaters from both teams excel at creating chances, making the mismatches on the defensive front even more evident.
Overall, this matchup shapes up to be thrilling, showcasing Chelyabinsk's aggressive and high-scoring play against St. Petersburg's resilient but slightly inconsistent attack. The stakes are high, and whether SKA can overcome their historical struggles against "Traktor" will be key for their playoff aspirations moving forward.
Expected Lineups:
- Traktor: Fucale, Kems, Kravtsov, Svetlakov, Goruyon-Roligizer.
- SKA: Zavragin, Zemchenok, Nikishin, Akolzin, Vorobyov, Zykov.
This thrilling clash promises not just to be a battle for two points but could also determine future placements as teams eye playoff positioning. One thing is clear: hockey fans will not want to miss this match!
