The Seattle Kraken are set to face off against the Edmonton Oilers tonight at 7:00 p.m. in a crucial NHL matchup. This game marks a significant return for Kraken defenseman Brandon Montour, who rejoined the team after spending the last four games away due to personal reasons. He will be paired with Ryan Lindgren as the Kraken aim for their third consecutive home win to kick off the season.
Montour’s Emotional Return
Montour expressed his emotions candidly during a recent media session, sharing his grief over the loss of his older brother, Cameron, who passed away after a four-year battle with ALS. The Kraken community is expected to warmly welcome Montour back to the ice as he rejoins the lineup.
Injury Updates
- Forward Jared McCann has been placed on the injured reserve list due to a lower-body injury.
- Coach Lane Lambert described McCann’s status as “day-to-day.”
- Kaapo Kakko skated with the team this morning, indicating progress and also listed as day-to-day.
Key Players to Watch
Following a standout performance, Jaden Schwartz received praise for his two goals and overall game play. Additionally, Chandler Stephenson’s faceoff skills have come under review, as Lambert assessed the impact beyond mere statistics.
Another player to keep an eye on tonight is Shane Wright. Wright has shown determination and skill, contributing two goals and three assists in recent games. His ability to generate offensive opportunities will be crucial against Edmonton’s talented squad.
Seattle’s Penalty Kill Performance
Despite mixed statistics, Coach Lambert believes the Kraken’s penalty kill unit is performing at an elite level. He noted that while the basic percentage may suggest middling results, advanced metrics paint a brighter picture.
- The Kraken rank ninth in the league for expected goals against per 60 minutes during shorthanded situations, a significant improvement from their 31st place finish last season.
Edmonton Oilers Overview
The Oilers are entering the game with a record of 4-3-1, accumulating nine points in their first eight games. Coach Kris Knoblauch announced the integration of rookie Isaac Howard into the top line alongside superstars Connor McDavid and Andrew Mangiapane. Leon Draisaitl will center a line with Matthew Savoie and Vasily Podkolzin, providing depth throughout their lineup.
Projected Lineups
| Seattle Kraken | Edmonton Oilers |
|---|---|
| Catton – Beniers – Eberle | McDavid – Howard – Mangiapane |
| Marchment – Stephenson – Tolvanen | Draisaitl – Savoie – Podkolzin |
| Schwartz – Wright – Nyman | Nugent-Hopkins – Henrique – Roslovic |
| Kartye – Meyers – Winterton | |
| Dunn – Larsson | |
| Lindgren – Montour | |
| Mahura – Oleksiak | |
| Daccord |
As the Kraken prepare for this significant clash, fans are eager to see how the team responds and if they can secure another win at home against a formidable opponent.
