Lokomotiv head coach Bob Hartley shared his thoughts on forward Alexander Radulov following the team’s 3-1 victory over Ak Bars in the opening game of the Gagarin Cup finals.
Radulov tallied two points (1 goal, 1 assist) in the win, and Hartley had high praise for his star player’s intensity and leadership.
“Is it true that Alexander Radulov doesn’t communicate with Lokomotiv players during the playoffs?” a reporter asked.
“Radulov may talk or not talk. But the most important thing is that he speaks loudly on the ice with his actions. Look at how he fought in the slot when he scored the first goal,” Hartley responded.
When asked if Radulov has a desire for revenge after being let go by Ak Bars two years ago, Hartley said: “Radulov’s main quality is that he always wants to win, everywhere. I’ve seen this since the start of the season. I saw the same thing in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and in the NHL. He gives everything to the game, never backs down, and leads the team. A true leader.”
“I have never coached a player who is so determined to battle and compete on the ice like Radulov. He is like a lion in a cage: as soon as it opens, he jumps out, full of passion,” Hartley added.
