The Seattle Kraken and Anaheim Ducks are poised for a significant divisional clash, with both teams eager to gain an advantage. The Kraken enter the game on an impressive four-game winning streak, largely propelled by the exceptional performance of Jared McCann, who has overcome early-season injuries to become a driving force. The Ducks, meanwhile, are looking to build on a recent win that snapped a two-game losing streak, setting the stage for a competitive encounter.
Jared McCann, the Seattle Kraken's all-time leading scorer, has made a remarkable return to form after missing a substantial portion of the season due to injuries. His recent resurgence has seen him net 11 goals in his last 18 outings, culminating in a January where he set franchise records with 10 goals and 20 points. His stellar play earned him the NHL's First Star of the Week honors, following a three-game stretch where he recorded four goals and three assists. Initially playing on the third line upon his return, McCann has since reclaimed his position on the first line, alongside Matty Beniers and captain Jordan Eberle, further solidifying the Kraken's offensive core. Coach Lane Lambert has lauded McCann's intelligence, composure, and evident comfort on the ice, highlighting his importance to the team's success.
The Kraken's recent surge has seen them climb within three points of the Pacific Division-leading Golden Knights, thanks to their current four-game winning streak. A notable victory in this run was a 3-2 triumph over Vegas, where Kaapo Kakko scored the decisive goal in the third period, following early goals from Eeli Tolvanen and McCann. Tolvanen emphasized the team's consistent performance and awareness of the tight standings, indicating a focus on their own game rather than external pressures. This upcoming game against Anaheim, followed by a match in Los Angeles, will be crucial for the Kraken as they head into the Olympic break.
The Anaheim Ducks, conversely, ended a two-game slide with a 4-3 victory against Vegas. Chris Kreider was instrumental in this win, scoring twice, while goaltender Lukas Dostal made 28 saves. Troy Terry, returning from an upper-body injury, contributed a pair of assists, and Ryan Poehling and Jacob Trouba also had multi-point performances. Kreider highlighted the team's commitment to a 'defense-first' strategy, focusing on simple plays and getting to the net. Cutter Gauthier leads the Ducks in goals and points, with Kreider ranking second in goals, including a team-high seven power-play goals. Both the Kraken and Ducks currently sit at 61 points, though Seattle holds a game in hand and a slight edge in regulation-plus-overtime wins. This contest marks the final regular-season meeting between the two teams, with Seattle having won two of the previous three encounters.
This divisional battle is more than just another game; it's a test of momentum and resilience. The Kraken, buoyed by McCann's exceptional play and their winning streak, aim to continue their ascent in the standings. The Ducks, fresh off a morale-boosting win, will seek to disrupt Seattle's rhythm and leverage their own offensive talents. The outcome of this game will undoubtedly have significant implications for both teams' playoff aspirations as the season progresses.