The Seattle Kraken made several intriguing roster moves ahead of their upcoming road game in Columbus, and fans have plenty to be excited about. The most significant development is the return of goaltender Joey Daccord, who is finally off the injured reserve list. Daccord hasn’t played since December 22, and while Philipp Grubauer did everything he could to shoulder the load in Daccord’s absence—going 2-2-1 over five games—there’s no denying that the Kraken just feel more confident when Joey is between the pipes. With a 12-9-2 record, a 2.51 goals-against average, and a .912 save percentage this season, Daccord’s return should give the team a much-needed boost, especially after losing their last three games by just a single goal.
Fans have been eager to see Daccord continue his breakout form from last year, when he posted a 2.46 GAA and a .916 save percentage. His consistent play and calm demeanor have endeared him to supporters who believe the Kraken always have a better chance when he’s in net. Although Grubauer stood tall in several of those recent close matchups, the energy around the team is undeniably different now that Daccord has been cleared to play. With the Kraken currently sitting at 17-21-3, every point becomes critical, and the margin for error is razor-thin. Having a goaltender who consistently gives you a shot to win is essential, and that’s exactly what Daccord brings.
Additional moves and call-ups
In addition to welcoming Daccord back, Seattle recalled forward Mitchell Stephens from Coachella Valley, while reassigning defenseman Cale Fleury, goaltender Ales Stezka, and forward Ben Meyers. With Yanni Gourde on injured reserve, it appears the Kraken want Stephens to fill a bottom-six forward role rather than rely on Meyers. Meanwhile, Fleury and Stezka were largely insurance moves given the recent injuries to Daccord and Adam Larsson. Larsson, who missed a single game, is already back in the lineup.
The #SeaKraken have recalled Mitchell Stephens from the Coachella Valley @Firebirds. Seattle has reassigned Cale Fleury, Ales Stezka and Ben Meyers to Coachella Valley. pic.twitter.com/oz8v5tyjrn
— Seattle Kraken PR (@SeattleKrakenPR) January 7, 2025
One mild disappointment is that Stezka didn’t get a single NHL start during Daccord’s absence. At 28 years old, Stezka has yet to appear in an NHL regular-season game, despite respectable numbers (a 2.67 GAA and .911 save percentage) in Coachella Valley these past two seasons. It would have been great to see what he could do on the big stage, but for now, the focus shifts to Daccord’s return. If all goes well, the Kraken can break their recent string of heartbreakingly close losses and start climbing back toward a playoff spot.