The Seattle Kraken's playoff dreams are alive and kicking, thanks in large part to the electrifying performance of their 4th line. In a thrilling 6-2 victory over the reigning Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, the Kraken's depth players took center stage, propelling the team back into the 2nd wild card spot in the Western Conference.
Sunday's showdown at Climate Pledge Arena showcased the grit and skill of Seattle's bottom six forwards. Ben Meyers and Ryan Winterton lit up the scoreboard with first-period goals, while Berkly Catton added another. Kaapo Kakko dazzled fans with his stickhandling, notching a goal and an assist.
In the net, Joey Daccord was back in form, making 23 crucial saves. This was a stark contrast to his previous struggles, where he allowed 10 goals over four periods. The Kraken's penalty kill, despite being statistically second-worst, was flawless against Florida, going 4-for-4, including a successful 5-on-3 kill.
Welcome to the team, Bobby McMann! With his visa issues finally sorted, McMann has hit the ground running, scoring his third goal in two games. His third-period power-play goal showcased his lethal shot, and he later assisted on Jamie Oleksiak’s goal, marking Oleksiak's second in as many games.
1st Period
Seattle got off to a lucky start, with Florida hitting the post twice early on. Sometimes fortune favors the bold, and Ben Meyers was in the right place at the right time. Ryan Winterton's poke to Freddy Gaudreau set up a shot that deflected off Meyers, giving the Kraken a 1-0 lead at 5:28.
The Kraken kept the pressure on, with Tarasov denying chances from Jordan Eberle and Winterton. Then, Kakko sliced through Florida's defense, and Catton pounced on the rebound for a 2-0 lead at 11:52.
Florida responded quickly, with Vinnie Hinostroza cutting the lead in half just 15 seconds later. But Seattle wasn’t done.
Meyers hit the post, and Winterton capitalized on the rebound to restore the two-goal cushion at 18:24. The period ended with Seattle outshooting Florida 13-10.
2nd Period
With memories of a previous loss to Nashville in mind, Freddy Gaudreau emphasized focus during intermission. The Kraken seemed to have learned their lesson. Kakko, receiving a pass from Vince Dunn, maneuvered around the net and beat Tarasov for a 4-1 lead at 3:20.
Despite some tense moments with penalties, the Kraken's penalty kill held strong, nullifying a 5-on-3 advantage for Florida.
3rd Period
Even with key players like Seth Jones and Aleksander Barkov missing, Florida's lineup still posed a threat. Yet, Seattle's defense and discipline shone through. The Panthers' lack of composure led to three minors, giving McMann the chance to shine with his first goal in front of the home crowd.
A questionable penalty on Brandon Montour added drama, but Daccord's stellar save on Anton Lundell kept the momentum on Seattle's side. The Kraken sealed the deal with McMann setting up Oleksiak for the final goal.
Up Next
Seattle gears up for another Sunshine State showdown as the Tampa Bay Lightning visit on Tuesday. The Kraken are riding high, and fans can expect another electrifying performance.