The upcoming match features the San Jose Sharks facing off against the Seattle Kraken at 7:00 p.m., promising an intense showdown. Both teams are looking to solidify their standings in the competitive Pacific Division.
Current Team Status
The Kraken have been performing well recently, earning points in eight of their last ten games. However, they suffered a notable defeat against the Sharks last week, losing 6-1 at home. This game has been labeled as one of their worst performances this season.
- The Kraken’s recent form: 8-2-0 in their last ten games.
- Previous facing: Kraken lost to Sharks 6-1 on their last encounter.
Historically, the Kraken’s struggles against the Sharks have been significant. In the previous season, a poor showing against San Jose derailed their campaign when they dropped two straight games. Currently, the Sharks hold a record of 8-7-3 but recently lost 2-0 to the Calgary Flames.
Home Performance
Seattle’s home record stands at 5-1-3, which is an improvement from past seasons. This particular mini-homestand offers the Kraken a chance to earn five out of a possible six points. However, they will need to overcome the Sharks to achieve this.
Player Updates
Injuries are impacting the lineup. Goaltender Joey Daccord is expected to return soon, but Matt Murray is anticipated to start against the Sharks after a solid morning skate. Forward Kaapo Kakko is sidelined with a lower body injury and is considered week to week.
- Joey Daccord: Expected return soon.
- Matt Murray: Likely starter against Sharks.
- Kaapo Kakko: Out indefinitely due to injury.
Freddy Gaudreau is a game-time decision but has been actively participating in drills, suggesting he may return to contribute on the forecheck and during penalty kills. The Kraken are hunting for scoring contributions from players like Mason Marchment and Eeli Tolvanen, who need to elevate their offensive output.
Scouting the Sharks
The Sharks are led by emerging stars including Macklin Celebrini, who tops the team with ten goals and 26 points. Other notable players include Will Smith and William Eklund, promising talents with notable scoring records.
- Macklin Celebrini: 10 goals, 26 points.
- Will Smith: 7 goals, 17 points.
- William Eklund: 11 points.
San Jose’s recent performance includes allowing two goals or fewer in eight of their last ten games. This defensive resilience highlights a need for the Kraken to make an early mark on the scoreboard to prevent the Sharks from gaining momentum.
Projected Lineups
| Line | Players |
|---|---|
| 1 | Marchment – Beniers – Eberle |
| 2 | Schwartz – Stephenson – Nyman |
| 3 | Tolvanen – Catton – Wright |
| 4 | Kartye – Gaudreau – Winterton |
| Defense | Dunn – Larsson, Lindgren – Montour, Evans – Oleksiak |
| Goalie | Murray |
As the Kraken prepare to take on the Sharks once again, they must aim for a decisive victory to shift the season’s narrative. Fans are eager to see if Seattle can break the cycle and claim vital points in the Pacific Division.
