Kraken Face Oilers Showdown at 7:00 p.m.
The Seattle Kraken are set for an exciting face-off against the Edmonton Oilers, scheduled for 7:00 p.m. The team’s recent developments indicate a potentially thrilling matchup, especially with key players returning to the lineup.
Montour’s Emotional Return
Defenseman Brandon Montour will make his much-anticipated return to the team after missing four games. His emotional comeback follows the loss of his older brother, Cameron, who battled ALS. Montour expressed his heartfelt sentiments during a media session earlier today, making it clear that he is ready to contribute alongside defense partner Ryan Lindgren.
In a different update, forward Jared McCann has been placed on the injured reserve due to a lower-body injury. Coach Lane Lambert noted that McCann is still considered “day-to-day.”
Progress for Teammates
On a positive note, Kaapo Kakko skated with the team this morning and is also listed as “day-to-day.” Coach Lambert emphasized the team’s progress, particularly praising Jaden Schwartz for his performance that includes two recent goals. He also commended Chandler Stephenson for his faceoff work, emphasizing the significance of puck outcomes.
Shane Wright’s Rising Impact
Shane Wright has become a player to watch. He has recorded two goals and three assists, contributing significantly in multiple zones. His improving performance could be crucial as the Kraken face a formidable Oilers team.
Seattle’s Penalty Kill Analysis
Despite the statistics suggesting a middle-tier penalty kill, Coach Lambert remains confident in the Kraken’s elite-level performance. The team’s special teams successfully contained the Jets’ powerful offense. According to expected goals against, the Kraken rank in the top third of the league, marking a notable improvement over last season.
- Current PK rank: 9th in the league for expected goals against (7.67 per 60 minutes)
- Last season’s PK rank: 31st (9.85 expected goals against per 60 minutes)
Know the Foe: Analyzing the Oilers
In anticipation of the game, the Edmonton Oilers are adjusting their lineup. Rookie Isaac Howard will now play on the top line with Connor McDavid and Andrew Mangiapane. Leon Draisaitl will lead another line, featuring young talents Matthew Savoie and Vasily Podkolzin. The Oilers currently sit just behind the Kraken in the Pacific Division, holding nine points from their first eight games (4-3-1 record).
Projected Lines for the Kraken
Below are the expected offensive and defensive pairings for the Kraken:
- Catton – Beniers – Eberle
- Marchment – Stephenson – Tolvanen
- Schwartz – Wright – Nyman
- Kartye – Meyers – Winterton
- Dunn – Larsson
- Lindgren – Montour
- Mahura – Oleksiak
Mark your calendars for this highly anticipated matchup at 7:00 p.m. as both teams look to gain ground in the Pacific Division. Expect an exciting battle with top-tier talent on display.
