Opinion
4 min read

Kraken Set to Tangle with Flyers in Pre-New Year's Showdown

As the Seattle Kraken prepare to host the Philadelphia Flyers at Climate Pledge Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying match-up. The Kraken have been showing a form that could be described as nothing short of formidable, and their recent performances suggest they are ready to take on any challenge.


Oct 15, 2022; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Kraken defenseman Justin Schultz (4) advances the puck against the Vegas Golden Knights during the third period at Climate Pledge Arena. Vegas defeated defeated Seattle 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against the Calgary Flames on December 28, the Kraken emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline. Their defense was particularly impressive, blocking a total of 20 shots and limiting the Flames' shooting percentage to just three percent. The goaltending was also stellar, saving 37 out of 38 shots for an impeccable save percentage. This defensive solidity is something that SEA will look to replicate against PHI.


Offensively, while SEA's shooting percentage stood at ten percent against Calgary – not necessarily overwhelming – it was their ability to capitalize on opportunities that made the difference. They scored two goals from just 21 shots and managed six points from those efforts. However, one area where they'll need improvement is faceoffs; winning only 33 percent against Calgary indicates room for growth.


Comparing this performance with their December 24 victory over the Anaheim Ducks shows consistency in key areas. Once again, SEA demonstrated defensive prowess by allowing only two goals from Anaheim's aggressive offense which took a total of 34 shots. The Kraken’s goaltender saved an impressive number of those attempts (32), reinforcing confidence in Seattle’s last line of defense.


The offensive side showed improvement as well; increasing their shooting percentage significantly up to fourteen percent and scoring three goals from twenty-two shots taken indicates an upward trend in finishing efficiency.


However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for SEA; when they faced off against Los Angeles Kings on December 21st despite winning by a narrow margin (2-1), they were challenged heavily throughout the game. The Kings dominated faceoffs with a win rate of sixty-two percent and peppered Seattle's goal with forty-three shots but were thwarted by an exceptional forty-two saves from SEA’s goalie.


Looking ahead at PHI’s visitation, it is clear that if Seattle can maintain their defensive strength while continuing to improve offensively – especially in faceoff scenarios – they stand a good chance at securing another win before ringing in the New Year.


Fans eager not only for victory but also for thrilling hockey action should mark their calendars: this clash takes place on December 29th at Climate Pledge Arena starting at seven o'clock PM local time (10 PM Eastern Time). For those unable or preferring not to attend live events can catch all action broadcast nationally via ESPN+ or locally through ROOT Sports NW channel number six hundred eighty-seven or NBCS-PH+ depending upon your location.

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