Iceberg Ahead: Seattle Kraken Frozen Out by Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena
The Seattle Kraken, with a record of 0-1, faced off against the Pittsburgh Penguins, who now boast a 1-0 record after securing a 3-0 victory. The match at PPG Paints Arena saw the home team capitalize on their opportunities while the visiting Kraken struggled to find the back of the net.
From the initial puck drop, it was clear that both teams were eager to set the tone for their seasons. The first period ended in a stalemate with neither team able to score. However, it was during the second period that Pittsburgh found their stride and managed to slip two goals past Seattle's goaltender. Despite several powerplay opportunities for both sides throughout this period and into the third, only even-strength goals were recorded.
The Kraken's offense fired off 22 shots but couldn't convert any into points; they also had trouble in faceoff circles winning just 24 out of 60 draws which translated into less control over the game flow. Their defense blocked an impressive number of shots (16), yet it wasn't enough to keep Pittsburgh from extending their lead in the third period with another goal followed by an empty-netter sealing their win.
Seattle's goaltender made a commendable total of 30 saves on an onslaught of shots from Pittsburgh but ultimately conceded three goals – two during play and one on an empty net after he was pulled for an extra attacker in a last-ditch effort to equalize.
On special teams, both squads had two powerplays each; however neither could capitalize as all goals scored were at even strength. The Kraken did manage two shorthanded saves among those attempts but failed to generate offensive momentum when down a man.
Despite this setback early in their schedule, there is still plenty of hockey left for Seattle as they continue refining their game plan and seeking cohesion on ice. They will need to address areas such as faceoff wins where they only succeeded forty percent of time compared against sixty percent by Penguins who dominated this aspect contributing significantly towards controlling gameplay tempo and ultimately outcome itself.
Looking ahead, fans can catch Seattle Kraken next as they visit Madison Square Garden to take on New York Rangers scheduled for January 17th at midnight UTC time zone. This matchup will be available nationally via ESPN+ online platform or through local television networks MSG channel 634 for home viewership and ROOT Sports NW channel 687 catering away audience ensuring no fan misses out on action regardless where they are located.