Mikko Lehtonen: "We are already gaining chemistry"

HC SKA defenseman Mikko Lehtonen:

- It's great to be back in the KHL. It was a good game today, I felt confidence after the first period and I settled into proceedings.

- People have said that the level of the KHL has fallen. Do you agree with this opinion?

- It is difficult to say, the ice size is different in the KHL and the style of game also differs. There are lots of quality teams and players here, you have to play at a very high level to win matches. I am happy to play in the KHL again.

- Nikita Gusev has also recently returned to SKA. What do you think about the team's current level?

- Gusev is a top player, I enjoy playing with him. We're often put together on the powerplay. I think that today's game showed that we are already gaining chemistry.

- Many consider you to be one of the best attack-minded defensemen in the KHL. Why couldn't you make you mark in the NHL?

- That's a tough question. When I moved there, I wanted to achieve more. Maybe I should have tried harder.

- Did you need a lot of time to sign a four-year contract with SKA?

- SKA are one of the best teams in Europe, the organisation is excellent with great infrastructure and a strong squad. SKA are always one of the favourites to win the KHL.

- Do you have a goal to participate at the 2022 Olympic Games?

- Of course, every player dreams of playing at the Olympics! It is one of my targets.

- Why are you often called Bobi?

- It appeared because of Bobby Orr when I was 15 years of age. It's a long story.