As the Seattle Kraken approach the final ten games of the season, there’s still plenty to keep fans engaged—even if this year has been one of development more than dominance. Sure, we’d all love to see our beloved team fighting for playoff seeding, but there’s something to be said for ending on a high note. Here are a few things I’m hoping to see in this last stretch that could give us real optimism heading into next season.
Matty Beniers clearing 20 Goals
Matty Beniers is already recognized as a dependable two-way center, but netting three more goals to reach an even 20 would serve as tangible proof of his progression. That total wouldn’t eclipse his career high of 24, yet hitting 20 would be a solid rebound after his “sophomore slump” last year. He has already demonstrated his defensive reliability—particularly evident when he went 19 games straight without a goal but still garnered top line minutes due to his defensive ability. It’s easy to chalk part of that dry spell up to bad puck luck, though there were times he seemed to force the issue. With that in mind, Beniers lighting the lamp a few more times would reassure Kraken fans that his offensive game continues to grow.
Kaapo Kakko’s influence can’t be overlooked, either. His chemistry with Beniers in Seattle has elevated both their games, showing that the promise these two arrived with can translate into solid production on the ice.
A career high for Kaapo Kakko
Speaking of Kakko, if he can notch just two more points, he’ll set a new career high. That would be a sweet footnote to his debut season in Seattle, especially since 14 of his points came earlier with the Rangers. The moment he surpasses his previous high could prove a milestone for both him and the franchise center he plays with in Beniers. From a broader perspective, achieving this personal record might strengthen Kakko’s bond with the Kraken before contract talks begin this offseason. If he feels a deeper sense of belonging in the Emerald City, it could go a long way toward making sure he stays a key piece for seasons to come.
Not loose one very specific game
Another critical storyline is the Kraken’s struggle with second games in back-to-back sets, where they currently hold an 0–11 record. Even the infamous 1974–75 Washington Capitals, who finished with only eight wins all season, managed to steal at least one of those follow-up contests. Seattle’s final chance to break this skid comes on the upcoming road trip in Utah, right after facing off in Los Angeles the previous night. Given that the Kraken have already triumphed three times over Utah this season, this game presents a golden opportunity to sweep a conference foe while claiming a confidence-boosting victory in a scenario that has repeatedly eluded them. But should the Kraken falter again, it would mark a disheartening 0–12 record in second-game matchups—an outcome that would unquestionably cast a shadow over any remaining hope for a triumphant final stretch.
Shane Wright cracks 50 points
Ten more points from Shane Wright to reach the 50 mark may be a stretch, but the very possibility keeps things exciting. Wright would not only place himself among the top single-season scorers in Kraken history, but he would also silence anyone who doubted his NHL readiness. Given that his season averages still put him under 14 minutes of time on ice, hitting 50 points this season would be a glowing testament to his impact. This is especially remarkable for a former top draft prospect who experienced a rough start. If Wright can average a point per game over these final ten contests, it could signal the dawn of a new offensive leader for Seattle.
A Joey Daccord goal
Yes, this is probably the biggest long shot on the list, but just imagine the thrill of seeing goaltender Joey Daccord pot a goal. We’ve all watched him scramble across the ice to celebrate with teammates, occasionally ending up in hilarious pileups. Now picture that same unbridled joy if he actually tallies one himself. Sure, a goalie goal typically happens only if the team is leading late in the game (something the Kraken haven’t exactly done consistently this season), but the mere thought of it is enough to put a smile on any fan’s face. If it happens, we might as well declare the entire season a victory on enthusiasm points alone.
This year has had its ups and downs, no doubt, but if the Kraken can check off even a few of these wish-list items, fans will head into 2025–26 feeling a lot more hopeful. Hockey is always about chasing the next spark of brilliance, the next big milestone, and the Kraken still have time to remind everyone why Seattle is such an exciting place to play—and watch—this incredible game.