The Seattle Kraken take on the New York Rangers tonight at 7:00 pm PDT. The Kraken (1-3-1) got their first win of the season on Thursday as the offense woke up and took out their early season frustrations on the Carolina Hurricanes 7-4.
Finally we saw a glimpse of last season’s offensive potential with a breakout game. Tonight the Rangers (2-2-0) come to town looking to get above .500. In typical New York fashion, the Rangers are loaded with big name players (expensive) who can set the tone and crush the opposition, led by defenseman Adam Fox.
Let’s take a look at the 3 Keys to Victory for Seattle Kraken vs New York Rangers.
Get the offense going early
The Seattle Kraken need to set the tone in this game early by scoring. After last game’s explosive output, the Kraken need to take that momentum and continue it. It seems as if they found their touch again, and will need to continue that if they are going to beat a tough Rangers squad.
Matty Beniers is in a bit of a slump and it will be nice for our chances if tonight he finds a way to get on the scoreboard. His success ultimately will lead to success for his linemates Jared McCann and Jordan Eberle. Kailer Yamamoto should also be a factor tonight as he has been a spark plug for the team early in the season.
Grubauer needs to be lights out
Goalie Philipp Grubauer has been solid this season. With zero offensive support (and I mean that) he has quietly been one of the best goalies in the NHL. If you selected him on your fantasy roster, and are patient, it will pay off. He could be a league winner for you.
Tonight, if the Kraken are going to be winners, they need him to be at his best once again. The 4 goals allowed by Daccord Thursday all but secure Gru as the started this season, and he has been a stud. He needs to be the best tonight if the Kraken are going to win.
Oleksiak and Dunn need to be Norris good
Seattle defensemen Jamie Oleksiak and Vince Dunn need to be better than Adam Fox tonight. Dunn’s ability to move the puck and dictate the tempo of the game will lead to many scoring chances for the offense. Last game he had 3 points and scored on the power play. Tonight we need a repeat.
Jamie Oleksiak is one of the best defensive defensemen in the NHL. When he is on, he can shut down the very best from any team. Tonight he will be challenged by New York’s star studded roster. If he plays like he is capable, the Kraken will win.
Brandon Tanev is out (lower body injury), Jaden Schwartz is day to day (undisclosed)
Let’s go boys! Fast start tonight! Puck drops at 7:00PM PDT on ROOT-NW.
Fear the deep!