Momentum is often fleeting in hockey, but the Kraken proved adept at sustaining it. After a disciplined and balanced showing against the Hurricanes, Seattle carried that same energy into UBS Arena. From the opening puck drop, they played with structure, confidence, and purpose, putting the Islanders on their heels early.
Head coach Dan Bylsma’s adjustments continue to bear fruit, with the team executing his game plan seamlessly over these back-to-back wins. This cohesion underscores how the Kraken are finding their identity in the 2024 season.
Vince Dunn sparks the offense
Vince Dunn was the engine behind the Kraken’s offensive surge, playing a pivotal role in their first three goals. The scoring began just 2:48 into the first period when Tye Kartye netted his third goal of the season. The play began with Vince Dunn, who directed the puck toward the net, where it was deftly deflected in by Tye Kartye. Dunn’s vision and knack for creating scoring opportunities have been game-changers for the Kraken this season.
Dunn wasn’t finished yet. Later in the first period, during a power play, he fired a shot from the blue line off a pass from Chandler Stephenson. The shot was perfectly tipped in by Oliver Bjorkstrand, giving the Kraken a commanding 2-0 lead and firmly establishing control of the game.
Dunn wasn’t content with creating chances for others. Early in the second period, he found the net himself, blasting a shot past Varlamov to score his second goal of the season. Assisted by Adam Larsson and Matty Beniers, the goal extended Seattle’s lead to 3-0 and highlighted Dunn’s ability to contribute as both a playmaker and a scorer. By the end of the night, Dunn had tallied one goal and two assists, driving the Kraken’s offensive success and dictating the pace of play.
Teamwide excellence on display
While Vince Dunn’s heroics stood out, Seattle’s win was a complete team effort. The Kraken’s special teams, long a source of inconsistency, proved lethal against the Islanders. They converted twice on the power play, with Shane Wright adding to the scoring in the second period. The 20-year-old took advantage of a perfectly executed setup, showcasing his knack for capitalizing on key opportunities. Seattle’s puck movement and decisiveness on the man advantage have become an increasingly potent weapon.
Defensively, the Kraken played with poise and discipline, holding the Islanders to just 25 shots on goal. Adam Larsson and Vince Dunn anchored the blue line, while Joey Daccord delivered timely saves to preserve Seattle’s lead. Even as the Islanders managed two late goals in the third period, the Kraken maintained composure, ensuring the outcome was never in doubt.
Offensively, Seattle’s depth shone through once again. Contributions came from across the lineup, as players like Jaden Schwartz provided the finishing touch with an empty-net goal. This balanced attack has made the Kraken challenging to defend, as opponents struggle to focus on any single line or player.
Building momentum and confidence
The Kraken’s back-to-back wins against the Hurricanes and Islanders illustrate their growing ability to deliver consistent performances. From aggressive forechecks to disciplined play in all three zones, the team appears to be gelling at a critical juncture in the season.
This success bodes well for the challenges ahead. With Vince Dunn leading by example and the rest of the team contributing in meaningful ways, Seattle has positioned itself as a team that can contend with the NHL’s best.
Looking ahead, the Kraken face a tall task in their next game as they take on the high-powered New Jersey Devils, a team loaded with offensive talent and poised to test Seattle’s momentum.