The Seattle Kraken need to lock down home ice in 2024-25 if they have any aspirations for a playoff run. Last season was a disappointment all around for this team, but their home record is a highlighting point. Why is it so important for this team to be strong in front of the Kraken faithful?
Home Ice Advantage
It is a good thing to play in front of the fans. You feel their energy and their vibe, and it enhances your game. The Kraken should have used that advantage last season, but instead, they seemed to be at a disadvantage in Climate Pledge Arena.
In 2023-24, the Kraken had a record of 17-8-6 in front of the home fans. That is certainly not the recipe for a successful hockey team, as their record on the road was not much better at 17-17-7. Going into this upcoming season, winning at home should be a main priority.
But how did they lose these hockey games at home? Looking at the stat sheet, it all comes down to the goals and game situation. When the score was tied after the first period, the Kraken were 3-6-4. That means there was no success in prevailing in the final two periods, and an inability to close out the game.
Furthermore, they were outscored as home as well. In the 41 games the Kraken played in front of their die-hards, they were outscored 116-111. Including letting up five game-winners in overtime, to further drive the knife into the hearts of beloved fans.
Of all of the burning questions that face the Kraken in the final month of the year without regular-season hockey, this should be another concern. The Kraken have to do better at home if they have any hope of making their second-ever playoff appearance.
Do you think the Kraken's failure to win at home is a big deal?