Kraken Forward Hits 20-Goal Mark For The First Time

Seattle Kraken forward Eeli Tolvanen has eclipsed the 20-goal mark for the first time in his NHL career. 

With a pair of goals in a 4-2 win over the Utah Hockey Club, Tolvanen grabbed the team lead in goals and reached a milestone for the first time in his career.

The 25-year-old got the scoring started quickly, capitalizing on a giveaway by Utah just 51 seconds into the game. He'd add his second of the night, and 21st of the season in the third period, scoring into Utah's empty net to ensure the Kraken pick up the two points.

Tolvanen had set a career-high of 18 goals during his first season with the Kraken. He had scored two goals with the Nashville Predators and then another 16 when the Kraken claimed him off of waivers. 

“I made it to 18 goals two years ago and then 16,” Tolvanen said. “And I feel like it’s been inside of my head to try to get to 20…you start thinking too much. So, it’s nice to get it done now. It’s one of those things where you always want to score goals and getting to 20 is a big accomplishment.”

Surprisingly, the 2024-25 campaign started a bit slowly for Tolvanen, in terms of goal production. Both his shot quality and quantity were down from the previous seasons, but it didn't take much for him to flip the switch. Now that it has, Tolvanen is on pace for 26 goals and 41 points. The 41 points would match the career-high he set last season.

“Tolvy has had a strong season,” said HC Dan Bylsma. “With 21 goals now, he keeps building on it and expanding his role. We see him on the penalty kill and I think that’s critical for his role and for our team to see him keep developing and adding to his game. He’s got 21 goals and four more to go to 25. I think he can get to 25 and that would be an exceptional season for him.”

The Vihti, FIN native has an explosive shot. The release is lightning-quick, and it comes off heavy and accurate. However, his shot's strengths haven't been utilized on the power play all that often, which is why he's recorded just two power play goals in the past two seasons. 

If Tolvanen is given more opportunities on the man advantage, there's a chance his goal numbers could climb further. For now, Tolvanen is doing everything asked of him and is thriving. 

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