Opinion
3 min read

Anaheim Ducks Eyeing Comeback Against Seattle Kraken in Home Ice Duel

As the Anaheim Ducks prepare to host the Seattle Kraken at the Honda Center, fans are bracing for what promises to be a gripping encounter. The Ducks have been navigating through rough waters recently, and their upcoming game on April 6th is a chance to steer the ship back on course.


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

In their last meeting with the Kraken on March 29th, the Ducks fell short despite a valiant effort that saw them score two shorthanded goals. Their performance was marred by penalties, which led to three of their four goals against while playing shorthanded. The final scoreline of 4-2 in favor of Seattle doesn't tell the whole story; it was a game where special teams played a decisive role.


The powerplay unit for ANA has been less than stellar lately, failing to convert in that crucial game against SEA. However, their penalty kill showed signs of life with those two shorthanded markers. This resilience could be key in turning around their fortunes if they can maintain discipline and avoid unnecessary penalties.


Dec 23, 2023; Anaheim, California, USA; Seattle Kraken left wing Jared McCann (19) moves the puck as Anaheim Ducks defenseman Cam Fowler (4) helps goaltender Lukas Dostal (1) defend the goal during the third period at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Defensively speaking, ANA's goaltending has been solid with an impressive save percentage across recent games. Despite this reliability between the pipes, they've struggled with faceoffs and maintaining puck possession – areas that will need improvement if they're going to outmaneuver SEA's aggressive play style.


On offense, ANA must find ways to penetrate SEA's defense which has proven formidable at even strength. The Ducks' shooting percentage needs an uptick; creating high-quality chances will be paramount against a team like SEA who capitalizes efficiently on their opportunities as evidenced by their powerplay success rate during previous encounters.


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

Looking ahead at this matchup from Anaheim's perspective requires acknowledging both strengths and weaknesses displayed over recent performances. It’s clear that discipline is crucial – minimizing penalties could tilt ice advantage towards ANA given how potent SEA’s powerplay has been.


The Kraken won't make it easy though; they've shown resilience and have capitalized well when given chances by way of man advantages. Their goaltending also stood tall last time these teams met but facing them at Honda Center might just give ANA that extra push needed for victory.


Fans eager for redemption should mark calendars for April 6th when these Pacific Division rivals clash once more at 7:00 PM PT in Anaheim’s Honda Center. Those unable to attend can catch all the action live on ESPN+, KCOP-TV or ROOT Sports NW – ensuring no one misses out on what promises to be an exciting battle as ANA seeks revenge against SEA under home lights.

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