The Kraken, Seattle’s new NHL team, were dealt a tough loss in Game 2 of their home opener series against the Avalanche. The Avalanche dominated the game, outshooting the Kraken 44-25 and scoring four goals in the first period alone. Despite a valiant effort from the Kraken, they were unable to come back from the early deficit and eventually fell 4-1.
The Avalanche’s top line of Nathan MacKinnon, Gabriel Landeskog, and Mikko Rantanen were a major factor in the game. They combined for five points, with MacKinnon scoring two goals and adding an assist. The trio was able to take advantage of the inexperienced Kraken defense, as they were able to generate quality scoring chances throughout the game.
The Kraken had some bright spots in the game, however. Goaltender Roddy Ross made 40 saves on 44 shots and kept the game close despite the Avalanche’s offensive onslaught. The Kraken’s top line of J.T. Miller, Evgeny Kuznetsov, and Rourke Chartier also had some good moments, as they were able to generate some quality scoring chances.
The Kraken will look to rebound in Game 3 of the series, as they look to even up the series before heading back to Denver for Game 4. The Kraken will need to find a way to slow down the Avalanche’s top line if they want to have a chance at winning the game. They will also need to find a way to generate more offense of their own if they want to have a chance at winning the series.
Overall, it was a tough loss for the Kraken in their home opener. They will need to regroup and find a way to slow down the Avalanche’s top line if they want to have a chance at winning the series. It will be an uphill battle for the Kraken, but if they can find a way to slow down the Avalanche’s top line and generate more offense of their own, they may be able to pull off an upset in this series.
