SKA - Lada. Match day

Today on the 2nd of September, SKA will play their fourth home match in a row against HC Lada Tolyatti.

Usually, Lada are one of the weaker teams in the Eastern Conference, but after missing out on the playoffs last term, they have begun this campaign in determined fashion. After dropping their first match against Medvescak, they have beaten Slovan 5:2, Neftekhimik 3:1 and Severstal Cherepovets 4:3 to surprisingly occupy third place in the table. Lada's players are full of confidence, and among their ranks is ex SKA goaltender Ilya Ezhov, who has impressed so far racking up a 94.0% saves percentage.

At the other end, Lada have been potent in front of goal, and their top scorer is new signing Nikita Filatov with five points (1+5). Other recent arrival Mkael Johansson, who made the trip from Farjestad in Sweden, will be one to look out for.

SKA have taken something from every game so far this season, and are coming off the back of a dramatic 5:6 shootout loss to Ak Bars. Pavel Datsyuk scored two late goals in that fixture to rescue a point, and he already boasts six points (3+3).

The SKA - Lada match will begin at 19.30 local time inside the Saint Petersburg Ice Palace. Life78 and KHL TV HD will broadcast live, while you can follow events on our official Twitter account!