Opinion
3 min read

Anaheim Ducks Set to Tangle with Seattle Kraken in Emerald City Showdown

As the Anaheim Ducks prepare to face off against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena, fans are bracing for what could be a pivotal moment in their season. The upcoming game on March 27th is not just another date on the calendar; it's an opportunity for redemption and a chance to shift momentum.


Dec 23, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Seattle Kraken defenseman Will Borgen (3) shoots on goal against the Anaheim Ducks during the first period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Ducks' recent performance has been less than stellar, as evidenced by their shutout loss against the Winnipeg Jets on March 16th. With zero points scored and a -14 plus-minus rating, it was clear that both offense and defense were out of sync. The powerplay opportunities yielded no goals despite five shots taken, highlighting a critical area that needs improvement.


In contrast, during their game against the Minnesota Wild on March 15th, although they didn't score any goals either, they managed to keep their opponents to only two points. This defensive resilience will be crucial when facing the Kraken's attack.


Dec 23, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Seattle Kraken right wing Eeli Tolvanen (20) shoots on goal against Anaheim Ducks defenseman Jackson LaCombe (60) during the third period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

However, there is hope stemming from an earlier game against the Chicago Blackhawks on March 13th where they scored two goals but ultimately lost with seven points against them. Despite this loss, there were positive takeaways: one of those two goals was shorthanded – showcasing potential in special teams play – and they had fewer penalties than in previous games.


The key for Anaheim will be translating these glimmers of potential into consistent performance across all periods of play. Special teams must capitalize on powerplay chances while maintaining discipline to avoid costly penalties.


Dec 23, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Seattle Kraken left wing Tomas Tatar (90) and defenseman Adam Larsson (6) help goaltender Joey Daccord (35) defend the goal against Anaheim Ducks left wing Alex Killorn (17) during the second period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Seattle Kraken will undoubtedly pose a challenge; however, if Anaheim can harness its strengths and address its weaknesses head-on – particularly by bolstering its powerplay efficiency – there's every chance that fans could witness an exciting turnaround come game night.


Ducks enthusiasts should mark their calendars for this clash at Climate Pledge Arena scheduled for March 27th at 7:00 PM PT. The action can be caught live on ESPN+ via internet streaming or through traditional TV broadcasts on BSSC, BSSD, or ROOT Sports NW.

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