Seattle Kraken Franchise Debut Round Table
Kraken Predictions
Leading Scorer?
Ciara Durant: I am not entirely confident in this answer. However, I feel like Yanni Gourde is one of the only players on the Seattle Kraken roster who has consistently scored over the last few seasons. Playing in Tampa Bay, the pivot was competing for ice time with the likes of Steven Stamkos, Blake Coleman, Anthony Cirelli, and Brayden Point.
It is likely he will have a bigger role in Seattle, which will give him more opportunities to show off his skill. Plus, nothing seems like a better motivator to up your game than being selected in the Expansion Draft. I believe his prior experience with Tampa, including his pedigree as a two-time back-to-back Stanley Cup Champion, will see him lead the Kraken in scoring this year.
Lucas Burrell: Jared McCann, points. Jayden Schwartz, goals.
Ed Stein: Schwartz is the best scorer they have, but don’t count out Vince Dunn.
Jonathan West: Since I’m in Vegas, I’ll spin the wheel on this one. Jared McCann will lead all scorers.
Team MVP?
Ciara Durant: Philipp Grubauer. This answer may seem a little simple-minded, but I have a feeling the Kraken will rely on their blueline and goaltenders this season. Especially if they can’t put things together and find a way to score. Grubauer is fresh off an incredible season that earned him a Vezina nomination. He might end the season as their most valuable player if he can continue to ride that momentum and be a brick wall for his team.
Lucas Burrell: Jared McCann.
Ed Stein: Philipp Grubauer. He was worth the investment.
Jonathan West: Spinning the wheel again, two-way player Brandon Tanev for MVP.
How many Points? Pacific Division standings? Make the playoffs?
Ciara Durant: I still have a lot of uncertainty about this team. However, I think with the current state of the Pacific Division, the Seattle Kraken could sneak into third place spot in the Pacific, with 93 points.
Lucas Burrell: 90 points which puts the Kraken in fifth place and no playoffs.
Ed Stein: 92 points sounds about right. The Pacific Division is weak, so that total should get them a fourth-place finish and maybe higher.
Jonathan West: More wheel spins: 81 points with the Kraken barely missing the playoffs and the Sharks win the division.
What are your predictions for the Kraken this season? Let us know in the comments section below or on social media.