Stars at Kraken Preview: Seattle Faces Back-to-Back Against Texas' Cup Contenders

Seattle, WA - The Seattle Kraken are looking to carry the momentum from their impressive 6-1 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday night into their matchup against the Dallas Stars on Saturday at home. The Kraken will host the Stars for the first of two home games between the two clubs. Saturday's contest marks the second of three total meetings this season, with the Stars having won the previous encounter 2-0 on October 13, 2024, at the American Airlines Center.

Historically, the Kraken have struggled against Dallas, holding a 2-6-2 record in their all-time series, including a 1-2-1 mark at home. 30 points separates the two teams as the Stars currently rank second in the Western Division with 98 points, just behind the Winnipeg Jets. 

Kraken's Key Players and Recent Success

The Kraken have seen standout performances from several players in recent games, contributing to their success on the ice. Five Kraken skaters are on active points streaks, each delivering key contributions during the last three consecutive games:

These players were instrumental in the Kraken’s dominant win against Edmonton, which also saw them set a franchise record for the most goals in a single period at home. This offensive firepower has propelled Seattle forward, and they'll need to continue this strong play to compete with the high-scoring Stars.

Key Matchups and Players to Watch

Seattle will look to some of their top skaters to step up in this matchup against Dallas:

Kaapo Kakko has four goals and six points (4 goals, 2 assists) in seven career games against the Stars, and his ability to produce will be crucial.

Brandon Montour is tied for second in assists (11) and ranks third in points (12) in 16 career games against Dallas. His ability to set up plays will be key in creating offensive chances.

Jordan Eberle, ranked first on the team in assists (13) and second in points (17), has been a key performer in his 35 career games against the Stars. Eberle also shares the team lead in game-winning goals (2) with Jared McCann.

Eeli Tolvanen has shared second on the team in goals (6) and ranks fourth in points (11) in 18 career games vs. Dallas. His offensive contribution will be vital in this contest.

Goaltending Matchup

The Kraken will rely on their goaltenders to keep them competitive against the Stars. Joey Daccord has a 1-1-1 record with a 3.30 goals-against average (GAA) and a .884 save percentage in three career appearances against Dallas. Meanwhile, Philipp Grubauer has a 2-6-3 record with a 2.59 GAA and a .917 save percentage in 14 career games against the Stars.

For Dallas, Jake Oettinger has played 52 games and won 34, earning a reputation as one of the top 10 goalies in the NHL. Oettinger also represented Team USA in the Four Nations Face-Off in February.

Players to Watch:

Wyatt Johnston (DAL): On a three-game goal streak, Johnston is tied for third in goals (28), fifth in assists (37), and fourth in points (65) for Dallas. He has six points (4g/2a) in seven career games against the Kraken.

Mikko Rantanen (DAL): The 6'4" right winger has 78 points (30g/48a) in 72 games this season. A key player in Colorado's Stanley Cup win, Rantanen was also named to Finland's roster for the 2024-25 Four Nations Face-Off.

Jaden Schwartz (SEA): Schwartz is on a four-game goal streak, with five points (4g/1a) during that stretch. He leads the Kraken in goals (23), is third in points (45), and tops the team in game-winning goals (6). Schwartz has 20 points (9g/11a) in 38 career games against Dallas.

Puck drop is scheduled for 7PM PST / 10PM EST.

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