As the Seattle Kraken prepare for the upcoming NHL season, the team is focused on bouncing back from two consecutive losing seasons. With a record of 35-41-6 last year, the Kraken are eager to leverage key offseason additions to reinvigorate their lineup and enhance their playoff aspirations.
Head coach Lane Lambert, who took the helm in May, has high hopes for new acquisitions, including forward Mason Marchment and defenseman Ryan Lindgren. The coaching staff is also optimistic about the potential contributions of young talents like Matty Beniers and Berkly Catton, both of whom have shown promise during the preseason.
The Kraken's preseason has been a mixed bag, highlighted by a recent 2-1 shootout loss to the Calgary Flames. In that game, 19-year-old Catton scored a goal, solidifying his case for a roster spot as he skated alongside Beniers. Catton’s performance has been a bright spot, showcasing the team's commitment to developing young players.
However, the Kraken's journey has not been without setbacks. Defenseman Vince Dunn is currently day-to-day due to an injury, and Ryker Evans is expected to miss six to eight weeks with an upper-body injury, adding strain to the defensive unit. The absence of these players raises concerns about depth as the team approaches the regular season opener against the Anaheim Ducks on October 9.
Meanwhile, goaltending has seen some stability, with Joey Daccord emerging as a key figure. Daccord demonstrated his capabilities with a solid performance against the Oilers, and his role will be critical in the upcoming season as the Kraken aim to shore up their defensive play.
With the regular season just around the corner, the Kraken will need to overcome these injury challenges and find their rhythm quickly. The franchise's ambitions are clear: they aim to avoid a third consecutive losing season and make a meaningful push for the playoffs. As they gear up for the new campaign, the combination of experienced players and emerging talent will play a pivotal role in the team's success.