Kraken Face Penguins in High-Stakes Road Trip Showdown

The Seattle Kraken have had a tough start to the new year, losing four straight games before finally securing a win against the Buffalo Sabres on January 11. That victory marked their only win on the team's first road trip of 2025, which continues tomorrow with a key matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins. This is the first of two meetings between the teams in an 11-day span, with the Kraken and Penguins set to face off again on January 25 in Seattle. With both clubs fighting for crucial points, tomorrow's game promises to be intense.

Seattle has a strong record against Pittsburgh, going 4-2-0 all-time and 2-1-0 on the road. The Kraken have also been known for their resilience, leading the NHL with six multi-goal comeback wins this season. Their defensemen have contributed significantly to the offense, ranking tied for second in the league with 26 goals from the blue line. Lately, there seems to be a disconnect leaving the net vulnerable to attack.

Injuries of key Kraken players have also affected Seattle's performance, forcing newer skaters on the roster to step up. Kaapo Kakko, has earned three points (2g/1a) in his last two games and has been a force in the past against the Penguins, with 6 goals and 8 points in 17 career matchups.

Jaden Schwartz is also riding a point streak, recording three assists in his last two games and ranking among Seattle’s top contributors against Pittsburgh. Andre Burakovsky, with 14 career points against the Penguins, and Brandon Montour, with 8 assists in 21 games, are also poised to make an impact.

Philipp Grubauer who has been struggling as of late, has been stellar against Pittsburgh, with a 4-1-2 record and a shutout in 9 career appearances. Meanwhile, Oliver Bjorkstrand enters with goals in back-to-back games, adding further firepower to Seattle's attack.

Pittsburgh will rely on Erik Karlsson, who has been red-hot, recording 12 points (2g/10a) in his last 13 games. Karlsson leads all Penguins defensemen in both points (31) and assists (27) this season and has had success against Seattle in the past.

Puck drop is scheduled for 4PM PST at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburg.

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