Seattle opened the scoring with Andre Burakovsky’s first goal in over a week. Returning from a stint as a healthy scratch, Burakovsky looked energized as he buried a crisp pass from Vince Dunn. Burakovsky’s goal is hopefully a sign of more consistent production to come, as the Kraken continue to search for offensive depth.
However, the Devils tied it quickly, with Luke Hughes scoring his first of the season off an assist from his brother, Jack. Despite being heavily outshot in the first period, Grubauer’s timely saves ensured the score remained 1-1 heading into the intermission.
Shane Wright continues to impress since rejoining the lineup. After a stint in the press box, the 20-year old has become a key contributor on the power play, and his confidence seems to grow with every game. In the second period, Wright scored on a beautifully executed one-timer, set up by Eeli Tolvanen and Jaden Schwartz, to restore the Kraken’s lead at 2-1. His line has started to click, and their chemistry is paying dividends, particularly with Wright’s knack for finishing plays.
Bad puck luck
Unfortunately, an unlucky bounce tied the game again, as a shot from Jesper Bratt deflected off Adam Larsson to give him his 13th goal of the season. While the Kraken’s effort didn’t waver, the game remained 2-2 heading into the final frame.
Devils tie it 2-2.
— Emerald City Hockey (@EmeraldCityHky) December 7, 2024
Tough bounce off Adam Larsson in front. pic.twitter.com/nOe5vRTMeL
Early in the third period, the Devils capitalized on a turnover, with Timo Meier scoring just 53 seconds in to take their first lead of the game. From there, Seattle continued to push, with Brandon Montour narrowly missing a golden chance late in the game, but the team couldn’t find the equalizer.
Despite the loss, this was one of Grubauer’s best performances in recent memory. After some shaky outings, his poise and effort were encouraging signs moving forward. Coach Dan Bylsma praised the team’s determination, noting the challenge of playing back-to-back games against top-tier opponents.
Looking ahead
As the Kraken close out their road trip, they head to Madison Square Garden for a showdown with the New York Rangers. Seattle fell 2-0 in their last meeting with the Rangers, but with the positive performances seen on this East Coast swing, there’s optimism that the Kraken can keep building momentum.
While the loss to New Jersey was a missed opportunity, there’s no shame in falling to one of the league’s most well-rounded teams. With Vince Dunn anchoring the defense, Shane Wright excelling on the power play, and Burakovsky back on the scoresheet, Seattle has reasons to feel confident as they approach the midpoint of the season.