Seattle Kraken: 5 Must Watch Games in 2022-23
As the Seattle Kraken enter their second season, expectations are raised. Here are 5 games this season that Kraken fans shouldn’t miss.
The Seattle Kraken, unlike the NHL’s previous expansion team in Vegas, have experienced plenty of growing pains. Last year, they finished with a 27-49-6 record. That was good for last in the Pacific Divison and slightly ahead of Arizona, avoiding the Western Conference basement.
It wasn’t all doom and gloom last year; there were several positive moments, like milestone goals, game-saving saves, and some upset wins over Stanley Cup contenders.
In the offseason, the Kraken acquired more impact players such as Andre Burakovsky, Oliver Bjorkstrand, and Justin Schultz. They also made headlines this summer by drafting Shane Wright, who will be the face of the franchise when he’s ready to accept the mantle.
This team will continue to find its footing as they navigate the murky waters of a stacked conference featuring the reigning Stanley Cup Champion Avalanche. As the puck drops on year two, they are still building rivalries from coast to coast. Here’s a look at some of the Seattle Kraken’s important dates during the 2022-23 season
Apr. 10, 2023 vs. Arizona Coyotes
Why would a late-season game against the Coyotes would make this list, let alone be one of the more critical games on the calendar? The answer is relatively simple, in seven days, the Seattle Kraken will face off three times against Arizona.
There could also be a lot at stake at that point in the season. No one is saying either team will be in the draft lottery sweepstakes or playoff chase; however, the Desert Dogs have many more problems than securing a new arena deal.
Last year, the Seattle Kraken finished just three points ahead of Arizona. They had an entire offseason to soak that in and figure out how to get some separation in the standings.
Yet, if these two teams stay the current course and don’t make the necessary adjustments, these three games in seven days may significantly impact their place in the standings.