This mouthwatering contest between two undefeated clubs couldn't have been set up more perfectly, as HC Pilsen - the current Regular Season Standings leaders - take on second-placed Skellefteå AIK.
- Both enter the contest undefeated with 12 points from four GP
- Pilsen's offence has been unstoppable
- Skellefteå's netminding continues to shine
Heading into this game, both HC Pilsen and Skellefteå AIK are already sure to make the Champions Hockey League Playoffs, but thats a reassurance neither club need as they've been two of the toughest teams on the block.
In their last contest, Pilsen put on a dominating display of offense, outscoring French side Bordeaux Boxers 10-4, with six of those tallies coming in the final frame. Through four games played, the Czechs are the highest scoring team in the Champions Hockey League with an average of 5.00 GG. Their offence has been extremely effective in every game, netting at least four goals in three out of four contests. Likewise, their defence has limited opponents to scoring two or fewer goals in three out of four games.
As they look for their fifth consecutive win, Pilsen's main obstacle is on special teams where their PK, when called upon, has had its limitations. Maintaining their discipline will be essential as they go up against a Skellefteå squad that's currently ranked 5th in PP% conversion at 29.17.
“Pilsen play structured and hard-working hockey. We know we will need a strong performance to get a good result against them!”Daniel Hermansson, Skellefteå AIK Head Coach
Meanwhile, the Swedes have also been equally capable of governing games as evidenced by how they expertly handled one of the better Swiss sides in HC Davos with a 6-2 victory on Game Day 4.
Their second-ranked offence and second-ranked defence have been a big reason for their success, but they don't tell the whole story. Their outstanding netminding has been another big reason why Skellefteå have been able to accrue consecutive wins across their first four games.
Both Strauss Mann and Jani Lampinen have been excellent between the pipes with Mann sporting a 93.33% SVS and 1.50 GAA while Lampinen boasts a 90.00% SVS and a 1.50GAA. Regardless of who gets the call, the Swedes will have a chance to make it five in a row.
“One of the strongest clubs in Europe. They play at a very high pace and possess outstanding puck skills. For both coaches and players, this is the kind of game that shows where you really stand.”Josef Jandač, HC Pilsen Head Coach
Make time for this epic Game Day 5 clash that will see one hard-fought winning streak come to a grinding halt and the other fly further on!