"There's Important Hockey To Be Played In Seattle"

Hockey Columnists Weigh In On Newly Energized Kraken (Story 1 of 2)

The Seattle Kraken's recent nine game win streak and 13 game points streak (11-0-2) has captured the attention of the national hockey media. In the first of two articles, here's excerpts from columnists with The Hockey News.

"Because of their early woes, the Kraken looked like they might have to sell off looming UFAs, such as veteran forwards Jordan Eberle and Alexander Wennberg and defenseman Justin Schultz. Now, they may be buyers at the trade deadline. As per PuckPedia, Seattle has approximately $2 million in salary cap space, and that may be enough to improve their forward group or defense corps with depth additions.

"Regardless of potential roster moves, there's important hockey to be played in Seattle until further notice. That's a victory for a still-young-and-evolving franchise and Kraken GM Ron Francis. They’ll have to hold off teams such as the Oilers and Calgary Flames for a lower playoff berth.

"Their fans should have confidence their team will have the opportunity to improve on their appearance in the second round of the playoffs last season."

"Joey Daccord has seized the momentum with the surprising Seattle Kraken. 

"Though he had played just 19 NHL games in his career before this season, Daccord is now up to 24 games as a starter in 2023-24. His .923 save percentage and 2.29 goals-against average are both career bests by a mile and among the best numbers in the league.

"Daccord is riding a personal 10-0-2 streak in his last 12 games (prior to Monday's 3-0 loss in Pittsburgh), with two shutouts. After a slow start for the Kraken, Daccord's play has helped vault his team right back into the playoff picture."

Editor's Note: Check back later today for more comments about the Kraken from national hockey media.