Monday Musings: Seattle Kraken Season Opener Looms After Promising Preseason
Table of Contents
SEATTLE – The Seattle Kraken are set to drop the puck on their 2025-26 NHL season this week, hosting the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday and the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday. The team enters the season under new head coach Lane Lambert, following a successful preseason period highlighted by strong performances from several prospects.
This season marks a pivotal moment for the Kraken as they aim to build upon their previous playoff appearance and establish themselves as a consistent contender in the Western Conference. With a revamped coaching staff and a core of developing players, the Kraken are looking to make a statement early in the season against two key divisional opponents.
Player Performances
Julius Miettinen (EVT/SEA) – The recently signed Kraken prospect showcased an extraordinary offensive burst this weekend, recording four goals and three assists in three games.
kim Saarinen (HPK/SEA) – The Finnish goaltender and Kraken prospect has started strong in Liiga, posting a 4-0-3 record with a 1.82 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage.
Ryan Winterton (SEA) – Winterton impressed during the preseason finale with two goals. He is vying for a spot on the fourth line,though the team anticipates a more dynamic style of play than a customary grinding line. He has also seen time on the third line in recent practices alongside jani Nyman on the fourth.
The Week Ahead
The Kraken will kick off their season with two challenging home games: against the Anaheim Ducks on Thursday and the Vegas Golden Knights on Saturday.
Anaheim, now led by head coach Joel Quenneville, is expected to improve this year with a promising young core. The matchup is significant for early division positioning as both teams aim for a playoff berth.
Saturday’s game against the Vegas Golden Knights will be a true test. the Golden Knights are considered by many to be the top team in the Pacific Division and perhaps the entire NHL. The game will provide an early assessment of the Kraken’s depth and how Lambert’s system performs against Vegas’s offensive power.
Sound Of hockey Fest Recap
A thank you was extended to those who attended Sound Of Hockey fest over the weekend, and to the event’s guests. The first part of the live recording featuring Everett Fitzhugh (@TheVoiceFitz) is now available. The remainder of the recording will be published tomorrow. https://t.co/yB0PNUTzCD