Seattle Kraken: Losing McCann and How it Affects the Series
McCann’s injury understandably threw a wrench into the Kraken’s game plan, as Coach Dave Hakstol was forced to juggle the forward lines in order to fill the top-line slot and number one power play unit.
As part of the lineup shuffle, Daniel Sprong was promoted to McCann’s spot on the man advantage, and he made the most of his opportunity. The minor penalty proved costly for the Avalanche. 1:45 into the penalty, Sprong slammed a slapshot into the back of the net, making it 2-0 for the good guys.
The Aftermath
After the injury, the fans not only booed Makar whenever he touched the puck for the remainder of the game, the Seattle Kraken began playing an even rougher style of play. They threw a team-high 52 hits in the game.
Seattle also did what any good hockey team does, avoid retaliation. They played smart hockey and threw clean hits. Unlike their opponents, the Kraken didn’t go out of their way to target players.
Justice Has Been Served
After the game, the players wouldn’t comment on the hit. Hakstol, however, had no issue speaking his mind.
“This was a hit on an unsuspecting player – well after the play. I watched the play live – and reviewed the footage. The hit occurred as a fan is jumping for the puck that is clearly out of play. The result is our 40-goal scorer is not available for the rest of this game. He will not be available for Game 5 – and likely much longer than that. I do not agree with the call on the ice. To change the penalty to a minor is the wrong call. A 2-minute minor for interference is not an accurate description of the play.”
H/T News Tribune
These words likely had some pull, as a day later, the NHL scheduled Makar for a disciplinary hearing with the Department of Player Safety for his actions. This hearing resulted in Makar being suspended for 1 game, one that may very well determine the outcome of this series.