In a thrilling matchup against the Sharks, Shane Wright made a memorable career debut for the Kraken. He scored his first goal of the season, leading the team to a decisive 4-2 victory after being recalled from the AHL earlier that day.
Oliver Bjorkstrand also had a goal and an assist, while Jared McCann, Matty Beniers, and Wright each added goals to secure the victory. Jordan Eberle dished out an assist, earning his 700th career point in the process.
"I thought we got good contributions from everybody," Seattle coach Dave Hakstol stated. "Everybody had a piece in it, and that's really positive."
Meanwhile, San Jose coach David Quinn had this to say, "We have to do a better job of being ready to go at the drop of the puck. You don't have much of a chance in this league when you're only playing 40 minutes."
Despite the Sharks' loss, both Fabian Zetterlund and Klim Kostin contributed to the scoreline, each getting one goal apiece.
Definitely felt comfortable out there
Shane Wright
Breaking down the action
The first period's opening minutes saw Beniers capitalize on an opportunity within the initial 29 seconds and score the first goal, ensuring he maintained his three-game scoring streak. Tye Kartye's apparent goal was called off due to an offside challenge by the Sharks. Bjorkstrand followed with a power-play goal at 11:46 of the first period, making it 2-0 for Seattle.
Hardly any time passed before Zetterlund finished his 21st goal for the Sharks in the game. Wright's debut goal came at 13:59 of the first period, giving the Kraken a two-goal cushion once more.
Kostin reduced the goal difference between the teams in the second period with a deflection on Marc-Edouard Vlasic's shot from the blue line. The Kraken held on to their lead, and McCann sealed the victory with an empty-netter late in the third period.
Wright's performance against the Sharks marked his first NHL points of the season and the second goal of his professional career. Vince Dunn returned from injury to record an assist for the team.
The Kraken will face the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday, while the Sharks will host the same team on Thursday. Wright's impressive return marks a positive note as the team aims for a playoff push.
The Kraken currently sits in sixth place in the Western Conference, with the top three teams qualifying for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. With only ten games remaining in the regular season, every point counts as the race for a postseason spot heats up.
Wright's impact on the team cannot be overstated, providing both offense and energy. His debut goal against the Sharks was a testament to his skill and determination, igniting a wave of anticipation among fans, who are eager to witness the new heights he will take the team to in the coming seasons.
The Kraken will look to build on their win against the Sharks as they head into a crucial matchup with the Los Angeles Kings. Wright's performance also marks an impressive accomplishment for the Kraken organization, which continues to develop promising young talent.
As the 2024 NHL season progresses, fans can expect more standout performances from Wright and the Seattle Kraken. The team currently has a record of 38-32-9, with a total of 85 points.
On the other hand, the Sharks are struggling to keep up with their opponents, holding a record of 17-49-9 and 43 points.
There's a pattern going on now where we've gotten off to bad starts the last three games
David Quinn
In the face of their recent difficulties, the Sharks continue to put forth their best efforts in each game as they approach the final stretch of the season. With only ten contests left on their schedules, every encounter becomes pivotal as the Kraken and Sharks strive to bolster their standings in the Western Conference.