Sergei Zubov and Vadim Shipachyov speak before the Western Conference final

HC SKA head coach Sergei Zubov:

- The playoffs are always interesting, and it doesn't matter who you are playing against. Each series is with a different opponent.

- Have you seen CSKA's previous games during the playoffs?

- Yes, we have been watching their matches and studying the way they play. They are an excellent team, the favourites.

- What are CSKA's strong and weak sides?

- They are a very fast and aggressive team. They are a strong opponent, and their special teams are good.

- Would you agree with the opinion that their strongest aspect is their physical play?

- This has been their main weapon for the past two seasons.

- Nevertheless, SKA have also been great on special teams. Will you change details to your game?

- In the playoffs, you win because of the small details. All of our components should be ready.

- Will their be changes to the squad?

- We make decisions about the team on game day.

- How ready is Ilya Kovalchuk?

- He's ready.

- Will he take to the ice?

- He has been training.

- What about matches?

- We'll see.

- Alexander Radulov is considered CSKA's leader. Can you pick out anyone else?

- Alexander is without doubt one of the KHL's best players, however their whole team plays in the same style. This is CSKA's main component.

- Before the playoffs, a lot of journalists stated that SKA's season will end early. Having already qualified for the conference finals, can you call this season successful?

- I don't know what you are talking about. We only have one goal.

Vadim Shipachyov, SKA forward:

- Will this series with CSKA differ from last year's?

- I don't think that it's worth comparing them, this is a new series. We want to win.

- Alexander Radulov and Stephane Da Costa are CSKA's main leaders. Will you change your tactics?

- The coaches will tell us how to play. Those two players are good, and we need to play more compact against them.

- Will it be difficult to cope with CSKA's physical pressure?

- We'll see.