The Seattle Kraken's incredible run has come to an end, and it stings. After a surge that propelled them from the depths of the standings to a surprising third place in the Pacific Division, their 10-game point streak (8-0-2) was snapped by a determined Carolina Hurricanes team in a 3-2 defeat. The Kraken held a 2-1 lead in the third period, raising hopes of another improbable victory, but the Hurricanes, a true powerhouse in the Eastern Conference, rallied to tie the game and eventually secure the regulation win. But here's where it gets controversial... did the Kraken deserve to win, even if they got outshot?
While the Hurricanes dominated in puck possession and shot volume, the Kraken battled fiercely, creating scoring chances and staying within striking distance throughout the game. Ultimately, the Hurricanes' superior skill and relentless pressure proved to be the difference. This loss serves as a reminder of the high caliber of competition in the NHL and the challenges the Kraken face as they continue to develop.
Let's dive into Three Key Takeaways from this hard-fought Kraken loss:
Takeaway 1: So Close, Yet So Far
This game echoed the feeling of the Kraken's 5-3 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on December 16th, although Seattle spent less time hemmed into their own zone in this particular contest. Facing yet another elite opponent, the Kraken seized a third-period lead and appeared poised to steal an unlikely win. But as any seasoned hockey fan knows, top-tier teams are never truly out of a game, especially when defending a narrow one-goal advantage. Similar to the Avalanche game, Carolina shifted into high gear late in the third period, demonstrating an unwavering determination to avoid defeat.
The tying goal, scored by Jordan Martinook at 10:37 of the third period, wasn't a result of a glaring error by any single Kraken player. Jordan Staal's patient play behind the net drew Matty Beniers towards him, creating just enough space to thread a pass through Adam Larsson's legs to Martinook in the slot. Beniers' attempt to pressure Staal left him unable to recover in time to deny Martinook's shot.
The game-winning goal, which came three minutes later at 13:50, was more attributable to a Kraken miscue. Cale Fleury, who has been a solid replacement for the injured Brandon Montour, attempted to chip the puck off the glass to spark an offensive rush. However, Seth Jarvis anticipated the play, gloved down the clearing attempt in the neutral zone, and initiated a swift Hurricanes counterattack. As they approached Joey Daccord, Ryan Lindgren subtly interfered with Daccord by shoving William Carrier into him. The contact was sufficient to disrupt Daccord, but not blatant enough to warrant a guaranteed goalie interference call. Jaccob Slavin capitalized on the chaos, completing Carolina's comeback. The Kraken coaching staff considered challenging the play for goalie interference but ultimately decided against it. And this is the part most people miss... was it the right call not to challenge? Could a successful challenge have changed the game's outcome?
Takeaway 2: Quality Over Quantity on Offense
The Kraken's shot volume in this game was alarmingly low – their lowest of the season. They were outshot by a staggering 3-1 margin, managing just 12 shots on Carolina goaltender Brandon Bussi compared to the Hurricanes' 34. However, these statistics don't paint the complete picture. The Kraken generated several quality scoring opportunities that were either blocked by Hurricanes defenders or missed the net due to errant shots or failed execution on rush plays.
Considering their limited shot output, the Kraken did an admirable job of capitalizing on their chances, scoring two highlight-reel goals courtesy of Matty Beniers and Berkly Catton.
Beniers was arguably Seattle's best player in this game, and his confidence appears to be surging since being reunited with Kaapo Kakko, with whom he found chemistry last season. His performance was rewarded with a dazzling goal to tie the game 1-1 at 14:13 of the first period. Beniers showcased his elite skill by deking Slavin, then driving to the net and slipping the puck past Bussi.
The score remained tied at 1-1 until the first five minutes of the third period when Catton scored his third goal in three games after enduring a 27-game goalless drought to begin his NHL career. Ryan Winterton anticipated Bussi's breakout pass, intercepted it, and delivered a perfect feed to Catton in the slot, who fired a shot inside the left post.
Takeaway 3: Welcome Back, Jaden Schwartz!
The Kraken undeniably missed Jaden Schwartz during his 19-game absence, which began on November 26th when he sustained an injury against the Dallas Stars. Schwartz made his return on Saturday and appeared to be back to his old form. He displayed his trademark speed, physicality, and creativity, nearly scoring on a breakaway and creating several scoring chances for his teammates.
Schwartz told KHN’s Piper Shaw after the game that his body “held up” well and that he felt good. His return provides a significant boost to the Kraken's lineup and overall team performance.
Schwartz's return coincided with Chandler Stephenson temporarily leaving the lineup due to the birth of his third child. Meanwhile, Jordan Eberle missed his second consecutive game with an upper-body injury, and Brandon Montour continues his rehabilitation process.
Despite being shorthanded, the Kraken competed fiercely against one of the NHL's top teams. It's disappointing that they couldn't secure the victory.
Now, Seattle travels to New York City to face a Rangers team on Monday that is reeling from a 10-2 loss to the Boston Bruins. The Kraken have fallen behind San Jose in the standings again, making it crucial for them to capitalize on this opportunity and secure a win.
What are your thoughts on the Kraken's performance against the Hurricanes? Do you think they should have challenged the goalie interference call? And how crucial is Jaden Schwartz to the team's success? Share your opinions and start a discussion in the comments below!
