A Roundup Of Seattle Kraken Analysis, Predictions, & More
Seen and heard on a skate around the internet pond...
"Kraken's Sophomore Year Was No Fluke"
Adam Proteau, THN.com: "The Kraken have a well-balanced group of forwards, featuring 40-goal scorer Jared McCann, 57-point producer Matty Beniers, and veteran wingers Jordan Eberle, Oliver Bjorkstrand and Jaden Schwartz. There’s no outstanding superstar up front, but Seattle doesn’t need one when all four forward lines contribute offense.
"Similarly, their defense corps doesn’t have a Norris Trophy candidate in its midst, but they’re an older, bigger group led by 64-point producer Vince Dunn and Swedish veteran Adam Larsson."
"Kraken Will Win Pacific Division"
The Hockey Writers: "With the breakout seasons for young players like Calder Trophy winner Matty Beniers and the addition of more playoff experience with the signings of Brian Dumoulin and Kailer Yamamoto, the Kraken are faster and stronger than last season.
"They also still have the leadership of head coach Dave Hakstol which should provide stability and confidence. When building a Stanley Cup winner, you have to take steps for growth and this season will be a major step forward to bring a championship to the Emerald City."
"What To Do With Daniel Sprong"
Detroit Hockey Now: "Sprong netted 21 goals while averaging 11:25 minutes per game for the Seattle Kraken. The league boasted 129 players who totaled 20 or more goals. Sprong was the only one of them not to play at least 14:21 per game.
“We had a good team in Seattle,” Sprong said. “You could play any guy with anybody and we clicked easy. But I think it was the opportunity to play power play, getting the minutes, making the most of it. I’m looking forward to a bigger role, show Detroit what I can do that this year.”
"Only Woman Full-Time Coach For Men’s Hockey Team"
Trib Total Media: "(Coach Dan) Bylsma’s journey to the Firebirds, a first-year expansion team that is affiliated with the NHL’s Seattle Kraken, was unique. 'A lot of firsts,' Bylsma said. 'A new group of guys, guys coming together. A new place to play in Coachella Valley, a new building that opened up.'
"Adding to the unique nature of the season was a member of Bylsma’s coaching staff, Jessica Campbell. She is the only woman in a full-time coaching role for a men’s hockey team in the North American professional ranks.
"'It was unique in the standpoint of you’re asking about it,” Bylsma said. “Jessica, when I interviewed her, reminded me a little bit of myself as a young coach in thirsting for knowledge, trying to figure out ways they can help players and help the team. She’s got a unique talent that she can bring to the group and to the guys. And she did that all season long.'"
Editor's Note: The Firebirds' home, Acrisure Arena, will host an NHL preseason game - but not involving the Kraken. ESPN senior writer Greg Wyshynski reports the Anaheim Ducks and Arizona Coyotes will meet on October 1 in Palm Desert, CA.