The Seattle Kraken have wrapped up their preseason with a mix of promising performances and challenging injury updates, setting the stage for an intriguing start to the NHL season. As the team navigates a slew of injuries, young players have stepped up to make their mark ahead of the regular season opener.
Rising Stars Shine
One of the standout players during the preseason has been Ryan Winterton, who dazzled in the final game against the Edmonton Oilers. Despite logging the least ice time among his teammates, Winterton scored twice, showcasing his potential as a future mainstay in the lineup. His performance has caught the eye of head coach Lane Lambert, who is looking for depth in a team that has faced its fair share of injuries.
Berkly Catton has also made a case for his inclusion on the opening night roster, scoring during a recent loss to the Calgary Flames. Catton's offensive contributions have been a bright spot for the Kraken, even as some fans express concerns about his readiness for the NHL. His ability to find the net under pressure indicates that he might be able to adapt quickly to the pace of professional play.
Injury Updates
Unfortunately, the Kraken's injury woes have mounted as training camp progresses. Defenseman Ryker Evans has been sidelined with an upper-body injury and is expected to miss six to eight weeks. This injury adds to the team's defensive challenges, especially with veteran Adam Larsson and newcomer Brandon Montour also dealing with health issues. Montour is recovering from minor ankle surgery and has yet to see action in the preseason.
Adding to the team's concerns, winger Kappo Kakko is also out with a broken hand, further depleting their forward lineup. These injuries have opened opportunities for younger players to make an impression, but they also put pressure on the coaching staff to finalize a competitive roster.
Goalkeeping and Defensive Adjustments
Goaltender Joey Daccord had a notable performance against the Oilers, making 32 saves to secure a win and demonstrate his readiness for the upcoming season. His strong showing in the crease is a welcome development for a team looking to solidify its defensive game after last season's struggles. Meanwhile, key defensive players like Vince Dunn and Jamie Oleksiak have been described as progressing well, which could bolster the Kraken's defensive efforts as they head into the regular season.
As the Kraken prepare to kick off their season against the Edmonton Oilers on October 9, the blend of emerging talent and the challenges posed by injuries will be critical factors in determining their success.
TL;DR
- Ryan Winterton shines with two goals in the Kraken's final preseason game.
- Ryker Evans out 6-8 weeks with an upper-body injury, adding to the team's injury woes.
- Young players like Berkly Catton are making strong cases for roster spots.
- Goaltender Joey Daccord impresses with a solid performance, crucial for the upcoming season.