Sibir Novosibirsk vs Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk Prediction 17 January 2026
🔊 Can the "Wolf Pack" extend their winning streak? The Nizhnekamsk team have hit a good run of form and now aim to solidify their position in the top half of the Eastern Conference standings. Meanwhile, the "Snowmen" are fiercely battling for the 8th spot. There's a strong chance that the intense fight for the 8th place will continue until the very end of the regular season. Notably, bookmakers find it challenging to pick a favorite, though they give a slight edge to the Nizhnekamsk side.
Head-to-Head
📊 For the past four head-to-head matchups, Neftekhimik have not lost to Sibir in regulation time. In the current regular season, the "Snowmen" managed to defeat the "Wolf Pack" at Neftekhimik's arena, but it happened only in a shootout (3:2 SO). Notably, in the last 11 head-to-head encounters in Novosibirsk, the home side have celebrated victory.
Head-to-head statistics Sibir Novosibirsk - Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk

Sibir Novosibirsk Team Overview
🔵 The "Snowmen" occasionally display top-tier hockey, but their inconsistency prevents the Novosibirsk club from securing a spot among the leaders in the East. Currently, Sibir have accumulated just 41 points from 46 games, placing them in 8th position in the standings. It's important to consider their average statistics-scoring 2.32 goals per game while conceding 2.83. In their most recent outing, the Siberians defeated one of the West's frontrunners, Severstal, with a 3-2 victory. Head coach Yaroslav Lyuzenkov commented on his team's performance: “We looked for our chances until the end and pulled off the win. It's enjoyable to play against them; they're a team that plays.” Recently, it was announced that Sibir's management confirmed Lyuzenkov as the club's head coach. He has managed to win 11 out of 21 games since Butsaev's departure.
Match Results: Sibir Novosibirsk

Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk Team Overview
⚪ The Nizhnekamsk team this season is characterized by cohesive and strategic hockey. While Igor Grishin leans towards a cautious style, he demands increased activity from his players on the ice when handling the puck. Currently, the "wolf pack" sits in 5th place in the Eastern Conference standings, with 51 points accumulated over 47 games. They hold a 12-point lead over the 9th position. Notably, Neftekhimik are effective on the road as well, averaging 1.2 points per away game (the 4th best in the East). Last Thursday, Neftekhimik secured a hard-fought victory against Barys (1-0). After the match, Igor Grishin commented on his players' dedication: “Hockey is a tough game; if someone hesitates, they won't achieve results. The crease is our home turf, and we don't let outsiders in.”
Match Results: Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk
🏒 Projected Lineups
Sibir: Berdin - Gordeev, Priskie - Wilson, Nekolenko, Beck
Neftekhimik: Ozolin - Serikov, Pastukhov - Artamonov, Dergachyov, Shafigullin
🥅 Goaltenders
At the end of last year, Mikhail Berdin switched clubs, moving from Kazan's Ak Bars to Sibir. In the "Snowmen" jersey, the 27-year-old goaltender has already participated in three games. During this period, he posted a save percentage of 87.01% and a goals-against average (GAA) of 3.33.
This season could be a breakout one for Yaroslav Ozolin. The 25-year-old netminder has already appeared in 14 games this regular season. Let's highlight his personal stats so far: a save percentage of 91.43% and a GAA of 2.73. He also boasts two shutouts to his name.
Editorial Prediction
The club from Novosibirsk traditionally performs well in head-to-head matchups against Neftekhimik, boasting an impressive 11-game winning streak. It's crucial to consider that the team from Nizhnekamsk may face physical challenges this coming Saturday. Yaroslav Luzhnikov has successfully fine-tuned the team's dynamics, earning himself a full contract. Our editorial team suggests the following bet: final victory for Sibir.