The Seattle Kraken's recent performance has been a rollercoaster, and their 4-2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks on Friday night is a prime example. Here's a breakdown of three key takeaways from the game, with a focus on the team's struggles and a controversial interpretation of their situation.
1. A Dreadful Start and Uninspiring Performance
The Kraken's performance in the first 40 minutes was nothing short of terrible. They allowed early goals, including a goal within the first minute, and struggled to find their footing. This is a recurring issue, with the team having faced similar challenges in the first periods of the previous four seasons. The opening 20 minutes were particularly ugly, with the Ducks capitalizing on Seattle's mistakes and taking a 1-0 lead just 1:02 into the game. The Kraken's struggles continued with short-handed goals against, adding to their woes. The team's inability to start strong and maintain a consistent performance throughout the game has been a major concern.
2. Almost a Comeback, But Not Quite
Despite their poor start, the Kraken almost managed to turn the game around. Jared McCann scored a goal in the second period, but the team gave it right back with a Chris Kreider power-play marker just two minutes later. In the third period, they finally showed some fight, pulling within a goal and creating scoring chances. Chandler Stephenson had a chance to tie the game, but the puck slipped off his stick. This highlights the team's resilience and their ability to almost come back, but ultimately, they couldn't close the gap.
3. The Shane Wright Situation: Trade Rumors and Distraction
The recent trade rumors surrounding Shane Wright have added an extra layer of complexity to the team's situation. Wright, a 22-year-old center, has been linked with potential trades, and multiple national reporters have speculated about the Kraken's willingness to move him. Wright himself seems unbothered by the rumors, stating that he doesn't trust the media too much and that it's just speculation. However, the constant trade chatter could be a distraction for the young center. Coach Lane Lambert, when asked about Wright's game, praised his performance and focused on ensuring he's ready to play. The situation raises questions about the team's long-term plans and the potential impact of trade rumors on the players' focus.
In conclusion, the Kraken's loss to the Ducks was a disappointing performance, with a dreadful start and an uninspiring overall display. The team's struggles with early goals and short-handed goals against have contributed to their recent record. Additionally, the Shane Wright trade rumors add a layer of controversy and potential distraction. As the team looks to improve, they must address these issues and find a way to start strong and maintain consistency throughout the game.
