Larionov on Shootouts: Not a Lottery, but a Test of Skill and Composure

The head coach of SKA, **Igor Larionov**, commented on the victory over Lada (4:3 in a shootout) in a regular season match of the Kontinental Hockey League.

– The opponent played well and didn’t give up, managed to come back into the game. They gave us a lot of excitement and maybe added a few grey hairs. But everything is good when it ends well. So, congratulations to our team on the win. Even if it didn’t happen in regular time, two points are two points. I appreciate the guys’ effort after a less-than-stellar game in Magnitogorsk; they delivered a solid performance today. We’re heading home in a positive mood, ready to prepare for the next game.

**– The age-old question: Are shootouts a matter of skill or luck, like a lottery?**
– I wouldn’t call it a lottery because it’s an integral part of the game. It’s not like we’re in Las Vegas drawing lots. We simply aim to win. So, it’s mostly based on skill. It’s about how psychologically prepared those taking the shot are, despite the pressure. The same goes for the goalie, of course. Thus, I lean more towards skill, talent, and the inner calm possessed by the players who step up and determine the outcome of the game.

**– Which Lipsky demonstrated perfectly today?**
– Yes, – Larionov’s words are reported by the SKA press service.