Kraken Fall to Bruins After Early Stumbles, Despite Power Play Spark
The Seattle Kraken dropped a tough one to the Boston Bruins in a game that felt like it was over before it really began. After a sluggish and disorganized start that saw Seattle fall into a quick 2-0 hole, the Kraken actually settled in and played some solid hockey. But in the NHL, spotting a team like Boston two goals early is a recipe for disaster-and this one played out just like that.
Early Breakdowns Prove Costly
Seattle’s structure simply wasn’t there in the opening minutes. Defensive coverage broke down, puck management was shaky, and the Bruins capitalized.
It wasn’t until the Kraken found their footing that they started to push back, but the damage had already been done. They chased the game from that point forward, and while they didn’t fold, the early miscues ultimately defined the night.
Special Teams: A Mixed Bag
The Kraken’s power play did its job, converting twice and showing flashes of cohesion and creativity. Chandler Stephenson and Eeli Tolvanen both cashed in with the man advantage, helping to keep the game within reach.
But the flip side of that coin was a short-handed goal allowed-another momentum killer in a night full of them. It was one of those games where special teams gave and took in equal measure.
Ryan Winterton Brings the Fire
One of the more unexpected highlights came courtesy of Ryan Winterton, who dropped the gloves with Alex Steeves and more than held his own. It was a spirited tilt that brought some much-needed energy to the bench and showed another layer to Winterton’s game. He’s known more for his offensive upside, but this was a reminder that he’s not afraid to get physical when the moment calls for it.
Analytics Paint a Confounding Picture
Here’s where things get weird: by the numbers, the Kraken weren’t bad. In fact, all but three Seattle skaters finished with positive underlying metrics.
They controlled possession, generated chances, and played with structure after the early collapse. But three glaring mistakes-each leading to goals-sank them.
It’s the kind of loss that leaves a team shaking its head, because for long stretches, they were the better squad.
A Rare Misstep from Matty Beniers
Matty Beniers has been trending upward all season, so when he makes a major error, it stands out. His turnover that led to a Mark Kastelic goal was uncharacteristic and costly.
These things happen, especially for young players, and the hope is that it’s a one-off in an otherwise strong campaign. But in a tight game like this, every mistake gets magnified.
Joey Daccord’s Rough Night in Net
Joey Daccord’s .870 save percentage doesn’t tell the whole story. Yes, he’d probably want the first and third goals back, but he also dealt with some brutal luck-one deflection in particular had shades of the kind of bounce that used to haunt Philipp Grubauer. Daccord didn’t get much help early, and while he settled in as the game went on, the early goals were too much to overcome.
A Tip of the Cap to Chara
On a night where not much went right for Seattle, there was at least one celebratory moment-Zdeno Chara had his number retired. One of the most unique and dominant defensemen of his era, Chara’s career was a testament to longevity, leadership, and sheer physical presence. A well-deserved honor for a player who left a massive imprint on the game-literally and figuratively.
Looking Ahead
The Kraken now wrap up their road trip with a Saturday showdown against the Utah Mammoth. Puck drops at 2 p.m. PST, and after a frustrating night in Boston, Seattle will be looking to bounce back and finish the trip on a high note.
There were encouraging signs in this one-especially the power play and the fight shown after the early lapses. But moral victories only go so far in a playoff race. The Kraken will need to tighten up early and avoid digging themselves into another hole if they want to come home with two points.