Bylsma Morning Skate in Columbus Jan 9 2024 Seattle kicks off their first road trip of 2025 Thursday night against the Columbus Blue Jackets before heading to Buffalo (Jan. 11), Detroit (Jan. 12), Pittsburgh (Jan. 14), and Winnipeg (Jan. 16). Thursday night marks the second and final regular-season meeting between the Kraken and Blue Jackets. Seattle dominated Columbus [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/seattle-kraken/latest-news/photos-kraken-players-honor-gaudreau-brothers-with-helmet-decals] in a 5-2 win at Climate Pledge Arena on November 12, 2024. Seattle Kraken vs. Columbus Blue Jackets: Key Player Stats and Team Insights Seattle has yet to lose to the Blue Jackets, boasting an impressive all-time record of 5-0-2 against them, which includes a solid 2-0-1 mark on the road. Key Players to Watch Several Kraken players are entering the game with notable performances, and their contributions could prove critical in extending the team’s undefeated streak against the Blue Jackets. Oliver Bjorkstrand brings an interesting dynamic to the game as a former Blue Jacket. In five career games against his old team, Bjorkstrand has recorded eight points (1 goal, 7 assists). His familiarity with Columbus could give Seattle an edge in exploiting weaknesses the Blue Jackets may have. Chandler Stephenson is currently on a roll, riding a three-game point streak. Over the span of those games, he has contributed three points—two goals and one assist. Stephenson is also leading Kraken skaters in assists with 21. Against Columbus specifically, he has eight points in 15 career games (1 goal, 7 assists), making him a player to watch in this matchup. Kaapo Kakko is on a two-game point streak, having recorded assists in consecutive games. Kakko's recent form could play a crucial role in maintaining the offensive momentum the Kraken need for the win. Jared McCann, a key figure in Seattle’s lineup, continues to lead the team in points this season with 29 (13 goals, 16 assists). McCann has a particularly strong record against the Blue Jackets, leading active Kraken skaters in both goals (10) and points (18) across 21 career games against Columbus. He also shares first in assists with eight, underlining his all-around contribution to the team’s success. Jaden Schwartz has been equally effective, sharing first in assists with McCann, and has totaled 11 points (3 goals, 8 assists) in 21 career games versus the Blue Jackets. Schwartz’s consistency and playmaking ability could be vital for Seattle’s offensive gameplan. Joey Daccord has been perfect against Columbus so far, holding a 3-0-0 record with a 2.67 GAA and an impressive .924 save percentage in three career appearances. His strong performances against the Blue Jackets could make him a potential starter in this game. Puck drop for tonight's game is 7PM EST/ 4PM PST Join the discussion with others in your hockey community! Just bookmark Seattle Kraken Forum [https://rtb.thehockeynews.com/seattle-kraken/posts] or create an account to receive the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
