Seattle Kraken: Have They Hit Their Lowest Point This Season?
The Seattle Kraken are currently experiencing a challenging season marked by a significant four-game losing streak. As they head into their game against the Detroit Red Wings, the team is grappling with adversity amid disappointing performances. Following a harrowing 9–4 loss to the Edmonton Oilers, the Kraken now find themselves in sixth place in the Pacific Division, a steep decline from their former position of second just two weeks prior.
Seattle Kraken’s Recent Struggles
The recent games have raised serious concerns about the team’s trajectory. Despite this, the Kraken’s situation is not as dire as it may appear on the surface. Although they may feel pressure in December, they actually rank fourth in the division when sorted by point percentage. Moreover, they have the fewest games played in the league, presenting a glimmer of hope for recovery.
Record-Setting Loss
The most disheartening aspect of the week was the record-setting loss against the Oilers, where the Kraken allowed nine goals, including four on the power play. This marked the highest number of goals they have conceded in a single game. If the Kraken can overlook this defeat, the narrative surrounding their recent losing streak might shift positively.
Offensive Signs of Life
In the face of adversity, the Kraken showed some improvement in their offense. They scored seven goals over the last two games, a significant rise when compared to only two goals from their previous three outings. Their shot attempts—74 against Edmonton and 77 versus the Red Wings—are their highest totals for the season, indicating a potential turnaround.
Challenges in Face-offs
One of the ongoing issues for the Kraken is their performance in face-offs. They rank 28th in the league regarding post-face-off shot attempts, averaging 6.7 per game. Additionally, they find themselves 26th in allowing face-off attempts against. This facet of their play has required strategic adjustments, including using specific players like Freddy Gaudreau to improve possession rates.
Injury Concerns
The team is also dealing with injuries, particularly the absence of Jaden Schwartz and rising star Berkly Catton, who is out for at least a week due to an upper-body injury. Catton’s injury occurred during the game against the Red Wings, further complicating the team’s lineup.
Upcoming Games and Outlook
As the Seattle Kraken face a packed schedule with four games in eight days, they will be looking to turn their fortunes around against upcoming challengers like the Minnesota Wild and the Los Angeles Kings. These matches will be crucial in determining the team’s position as they head towards the Christmas break.
- Game against Minnesota: Monday at home
- Game against Los Angeles: Wednesday at home
- Game against Utah: Friday in Utah
- Game against Buffalo: Sunday at home
With the Kraken struggling for consistency, it is essential that they work to improve their penalty kill efficiency, having failed to secure a successful kill in eight attempts. The coming week provides them an opportunity to recalibrate and potentially secure crucial points in the standings.
As Seattle’s season continues, it remains to be seen how they will respond to the mounting pressures. Fans hope to see the Kraken regain their footing and begin to adapt to their current challenges.
