LiontipsSKA vs Kunlun: Preview and Betting Odds for KHL Match on September 29, 2024
Command Analysis
Current Form
SKA has bounced back from a slow start to the season, now showcasing their best performance with a five-game winning streak. The team continues their home series, beginning with a decisive 4-1 victory over Avangard. Once again, the attacking line has impressed, delivering 35 shots on goal. Credit also goes to goalie Pleshkov, who saved 26 of 27 shots faced.
Staying on home ice, the "Army Men" faced Severstal, clinching one of their most high-scoring wins in history, defeating the steelworkers 8-5. Defender Pedan shone with four assists, while forward Zykov not only provided an assist but also scored twice.
Latest SKA News
American defenseman Tony DeAngelo has joined SKA, making an immediate impact by setting two league records in his debut. He recorded the most assists in a first game and achieved the best plus-minus rating in a single match.
Injuries and Suspensions
SKA is enjoying a healthy roster, with almost all players available. The only absence for the upcoming match will be defenseman Zemschenyuk.
Interesting Betting Trends
- SKA concedes an average of three goals per game
The defensive line of SKA has room for improvement. The team primarily relies on its offensive power for success while allowing a high number of goals.
- 40% of SKA's penalties result in goals against
Currently, the team struggles with their penalty kill, consistently allowing goals following rule infractions.
Current Form
Kunlun has been struggling lately, particularly with low offensive productivity, which is a major factor in the team's defeats. Red Star faced a heavy loss against Admiral, ending 1-7, followed by a disappointing 1-3 defeat to Siberia. Notably, the team managed only 50 shots on target in these two games, with just two finding the net.
Returning to their home arena, the situation did not improve significantly. In the match against Torpedo, they displayed some attacking flair but continued to struggle with finishing, resulting in another loss, this time 2-4. Additionally, Kunlun failed to secure a win against a seemingly weaker opponent, Minsk Dynamo, losing 1-3 once again.
Injuries and Suspensions
Kunlun has minimal issues with their roster. The only player not available is Doyle Somerby, who has yet to play a match this season.
Interesting Betting Trends
Kunlun averages 3.7 goals conceded per game
The lack of offensive efficiency is a significant challenge for the team. The defensive line often struggles to contain opponent pressure, and the goaltenders are also not performing up to par.
Kunlun averages 10.5 penalties per game
Red Star tends to play very aggressively, which frequently results in penalties and dismissals.
Trends
Bet First goal: SKA
In five out of the last six encounters, SKA scored first
1.40Bet 2nd period: total over 1.5 goals
In the last six matchups, both teams scored more than one goal in the second period
1.45Tip and bets
It seems unlikely that SKA will end their winning streak against a clear underdog, particularly considering that Kunlun is struggling and has not achieved a victory in their last four matches. Additionally, the fact that the Army team is still playing on home ice, supported by their fans, enhances their chances of another win. We recommend playing it safe and placing a confident bet on the home team.
Our prediction is a SKA victory with a goal handicap of (-2.5) for 1.85
Betting on Total Goals
The upcoming match is likely to feature high-scoring hockey, as both teams have struggled defensively this season, consistently allowing numerous goals. Therefore, we recommend placing a bet on the total being over.
Prediction – total over 5.5 goals at 1.61
Betting on First Period Outcome
SKA is expected to start the game with intense pressure on their opponent at home, which should help the team secure an early lead in the first period.
Prediction – SKA to win the first period at 1.60
