Optibet Hockey League contenders prepare for 2026/2027 season

Four teams have expressed their readiness to compete for the Optibet Hockey League (OHL) 2026/2027 season championship title following a recent press conference. The contenders include the defending champions Mogo/RSU, runners-up Zemgale/LBTU, Liepāja hockey team, and the Kyiv Capitals.

Mogo/RSU head coach Girts Ankipāns noted that while the team aims to retain the title, the competition is becoming increasingly difficult due to the loss of experienced players and the integration of new talent. Similarly, Zemgale/LBTU forward Artis Ābols highlighted significant roster changes, including 11 new young players, but maintained that the goal remains the championship trophy.

Representing the Liepāja team, assistant coach Vjačeslavs Minajevs stated the team is determined to reach the finals this season. The Kyiv Capitals, who are competing under a Ukrainian license, aim for a tournament victory. Forward Kristiāns Zelts noted that the Kyiv roster has undergone substantial changes, currently consisting of ten Latvian players, 11 Ukrainian players, three Finns, and one Lithuanian.