Key Injuries Impact Kraken Lineup
The Seattle Kraken have been hit by a rash of early-season injuries, forcing them to shuffle their lineup ahead of an important matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Forward Frederick Gaudreau will miss 4-6 weeks with an upper-body injury, the team announced on Friday. Gaudreau had been off to a strong start, recording 3 points in 4 games. To replace him, the Kraken recalled John Hayden from the AHL.
The Kraken are also without defenseman Ryker Evans, who is not expected to return until next month due to his own injury. This leaves head coach Lane Lambert having to make adjustments to his defensive pairings.
Youngsters Get Opportunities
Despite the injury woes, the Kraken are seeing some of their top prospects step up. Rookie center Shane Wright has been solid in his first few NHL games, while winger Eeli Tolvanen has provided an offensive spark alongside Chandler Stephenson and Jaden Schwartz.
Defenseman Cale Fleury has also seen increased minutes with Evans out, giving the 23-year-old a chance to prove himself at the NHL level.
Looking Ahead to Toronto
The depleted Kraken lineup will face a stiff test against the high-powered Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night. The Leafs boast star power up front with the likes of William Nylander and Matthew Knies, who have both had success against Seattle in the past.
It will take a gritty, team effort for the Kraken to come away with two points, but Lambert is confident his squad can rise to the occasion despite the injury challenges.
TL;DR
- Kraken F Frederick Gaudreau out 4-6 weeks with upper-body injury
- D Ryker Evans also sidelined, opening opportunities for younger players
- Rookies Shane Wright and Eeli Tolvanen stepping up amid the injury crisis
- Depleted Kraken face tough test against high-powered Maple Leafs on Saturday