Seattle Kraken 3 Stars of Week 1: Improved Power Play Leads the Way
Seattle Kraken’s Second Star of the Week— Andre Burakovsky
Andre Burakovsky joined the Seattle Kraken as a free agent in the off-season. His first three games with the club have been a testament to why he is a Stanley Cup Champion and our second star of the week.
The 27-year-old set career highs in goals, assists, and points last season with the Colorado Avalanche. At the rate he is going, Burakovsky is on the fast track to eclipsing those totals in 2022-23.
After last season, the Kraken was in desperate need of scoring, and Burakovsky has not been in short supply. In just 3 games, he’s tied for first in points with rookie star Matty Beniers.
Albeit a small sample size, he’s helped the Seattle Kraken’s power play go from 14.55% last season to 38.46% so far this season. Three of his four points so far came on the man advantage.
As mentioned, Burakovsky has helped his teammates take advantage of prime scoring opportunities. He has shown how patient and poised he is on the ice.
However, what stands out about his game, isn’t necessarily the points he produced but the way he’s gone about procuring these points.
Showing Up When it Matters Most
There is no doubt that Burakovsky has become, and will continue to be, an offensive asset to the team. However, Andre shows up for his team when it matters most.
Both of his points against the Vegas Golden Knights came when the team was trying to rally and make some sort of a comeback. His power-play goal against the Anaheim Ducks gave Seattle a crucial one-goal advantage in the second period. Despite losing in overtime, his goal was an important catalyst in earning the team one point in that game.
His assist on Jaden Schwartz’s opening goal against Los Angeles showed off his incredible innovation on the ice, faking a shot and setting up Jordan Eberle with the pass. This goal led the way for Seattle to band together and take home their first win of the NHL season.
Going forward, his leadership and ability to show up for his team will benefit the Seattle Kraken greatly. The second-generation NHLer is the kind of player this team was missing last season. Burakovsky could very well be the glue that holds them altogether if things start to fall apart.
ANDRE BURAKOVSKY! (1) His first with the Krakenpic.twitter.com/8MxpFObyQH
— RU1999Guy (@BadnewsFreddy) October 13, 2022