Kraken Set Sail to Conquer Islanders at UBS Arena on Valentine's Day
As the Seattle Kraken prepare to face off against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter on February 14. The Kraken, who have been navigating through choppy waters this season, are looking to anchor a solid performance away from home.
In their recent skirmish on December 24 against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center, the Kraken emerged victorious with a narrow 3-2 win. Despite being outshot 22-34 and losing the faceoff battle with only a 38 percent win rate, they managed to capitalize on their shooting opportunities with a commendable 14 percent shooting percentage. Their power play was efficient albeit limited; they scored once in their single opportunity. This victory was anchored by an impressive goaltending display that saw them save all but two of the Ducks' shots.
A few days earlier on December 21, SEA faced off against the Los Angeles Kings in another tight contest that ended in a slim margin of victory for Seattle. The final score read 2-1 in favor of SEA after they peppered the Kings' netminder with an onslaught of shots totaling thirty attempts. Once again, goaltending proved pivotal as SEA's goalie turned away an astounding forty-two shots out of forty-three faced – showcasing resilience and reliability between the pipes.
However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for SEA when they clashed with Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center on December 19. Despite putting up three goals and maintaining even strength throughout most of the game, they ultimately succumbed in overtime by one goal difference – ending up short-handed when it mattered most.
The upcoming match-up presents an opportunity for redemption as well as consolidation for SEA. The Islanders will not make it easy though; playing at home gives them an edge that cannot be overlooked. Yet if recent performances are anything to go by – particularly those heroic saves and clutch goal-scoring abilities displayed by SEA – there is reason for optimism among its fanbase.
SEA must leverage their strengths: tenacious goaltending and seizing scoring opportunities despite fewer chances than opponents seem key ingredients needed if they wish to leave Belmont Park victorious come Valentine's Day night.
Fans eager to support their team can catch all action live from UBS Arena or tune into ESPN+ nationally or ROOT Sports NW locally starting at 7:30 PM Eastern Time (ET) on February 14th.