Kraken Notebook: Catton’s Confidence Grows as Full Roster Returns to Health

The Seattle Kraken are focused on regaining momentum as their full roster returns to health. After a grueling nine-day, cross-country road trip, the team held its first practice back at Kraken Community Iceplex, where they aimed to address recent performance inconsistencies.

Practice After a Challenging Road Trip

The Kraken’s road trip concluded with a record of 1-3-1, prompting Coach Lane Lambert to emphasize the importance of taking it one game at a time. The team is preparing for their next matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins at home, with an early start time of 2 p.m., which means no morning skate.

Players Show Upbeat Attitude

• Captain Jordan Eberle noted the highs and lows typical of an 82-game schedule.
• Returning veteran Jaden Schwartz emphasized the need for consistency despite the team’s recent struggles.

Both players acknowledge the challenges of bouncing back after a rough stretch but remain optimistic about clawing back to the top of their division.

Full Roster Health and Line Adjustments

With the return of Schwartz and defenseman Brandon Montour from injury, the Kraken have nearly their entire roster healthy. The only exception is goalie Matt Murray, who is on injured reserve but has been practicing. Coach Lambert acknowledged the challenges of reintegrating multiple players back into the lineup simultaneously.

Finding Team Chemistry

Recent changes in player lineups could be affecting team dynamics. The Kraken face the task of reestablishing chemistry as veterans re-enter the game. Lambert highlighted the need for players to adapt back into their roles and find a consistent rhythm.

Berkly Catton’s Growing Confidence

Rookie Berkly Catton is experiencing a newfound sense of confidence following his recent scoring success, netting four goals and one assist in seven games. After a challenging start to his NHL career, Catton indicated that each game is a learning experience.

Off-Ice Support

Catton has been thriving in his off-ice life as well, living with teammate Chandler Stephenson and his family. He appreciates the support and feels like he is part of a family, a contrast to his earlier solitary living situation.

Upcoming Games and Changes

• Monday’s game against the Penguins will be a Kids Day event at Climate Pledge Arena.
• The Kraken’s home game against the New Jersey Devils has been rescheduled to start at 12 p.m. on January 25.

As the Kraken navigate their way through the remainder of the season, they remain motivated to stabilize their performance and build on their recent successes. The full roster’s health brings optimism, but they must work diligently to regain their chemistry on the ice.