The Seattle Kraken and its fans have had a long summer. But, in just a few short weeks, the puck will drop on the regular season and away they go. Before all of that though, it is time for the players to report for training camp.
Each year, as the players start to show up for training camp, there is always a sense of wonder for the upcoming season. And, with that wonder, comes an abundance of questions. Here are some that pertain to the Kraken, as they embark on their fourth season in the NHL.
Good Enough?
This is pretty simple: Are the Kraken good enough to compete all year? The 2023-24 campaign was a complete disappointment, and it seemed like a lot was left on the table. With that bitter taste still in the mouths of the players, did the front office do enough to bring a better team to this year's training camp?
Improvements were needed in almost all facets of this roster, from offensive output to defensive dependency. As the preseason starts and the regular season moves along, we will see if the new changes made a difference.
New Head Coach, New Results
There is a new sheriff in town. For the 2024-25 season, former Pittsburgh Penguins and Coachella Valley Firebirds Head Coach Dan Bylsma is the head coach of the Kraken. He brings a lot to this team, and if anyone can turn a franchise around on a dime, it is Bylsma.
His pedigree is perfect for this organization, as having won a Stanley Cup and the Jack Adams Award with Pittsburgh. Additionally, he has been a member of this organization, and he did so well in the AHL, he got promoted to the NHL club. He knows how what the front office is looking for.
Goaltending Situation
What is to make of the goaltending situation? There is an obvious answer, but there can be no doubt that goaltender Joey Daccord is the starter in 2024-25. All that remains now is the situation of splitting the starts.
Putting Daccord in the net for mid-to-high 60+ games would be great, but not likely going to happen. Especially, if he is not what we think he can be this upcoming season, a top-tier goalie.
Potential backup Philipp Grubauer has to get some meaningful and important reps next season, and they will all be important. This is likely his last chance to make any sort of legacy with the Kraken, as he has been nothing but underwhelming since coming over from Colorado in 2021-22.
Will Offensive Woes Linger in 2024-25?
This may be the most important question as training camp is getting underway. Will the lackluster offense from 2023-24 carry over into the new season?
The Kraken went out and re-signed Matty Beniers, signed Chandler Stephenson from Vegas, and added a defenseman who has a knack for creating scoring chances in Branden Montour. The pieces are there to flip the narrative that this roster lacks firepower.
Do you have any questions that you want answered for the 2024-25 Kraken season?