Razin refused to explain why forward Kuznetsov did not play in the match against Ak Bars.

Magnitogorsk Metallurg head coach Andrei Razin abruptly dismissed a question about recently acquired forward Evgeny Kuznetsov.

The hockey player's name was raised at a press conference following Magnitogorsk Metallurg's match against Ak Bars, which the steelworkers lost 4-0. One of the journalists inquired about Kuznetsov's absence in the third period; many had seen him change clothes after the second period and never return to the ice.

“Next question, no comments on this matter,” Razin responded rather sharply to the question.

It's worth noting that journalists' attention to Kuznetsov's performance—and lack thereof—is understandable. The forward's problems began while he was still playing in the NHL, and he also played briefly for SKA after returning to the Kontinental Hockey League. Therefore, any situations involving him that can't be explained simply by analyzing his performance attract the attention of both journalists and the general public.

As for the match itself, in the third period, during which Kuznetsov was out, Metallurg clearly tried to turn the ice around and get back into the game. Several dangerous positional attacks were launched, and Kazan was pinned down in the zone, but the opponent's exemplary defensive play and a puck that deflected into Metallurg's net prevented Magnitogorsk from achieving what they desired.

Previously on the topic: Razin stated that in the game against Ak Bars, Metallurg hockey players were let down by small details.