Kraken Prepare for Flames in Key Preseason Showdown

SEATTLE — The Seattle Kraken are set to face the Calgary Flames in their second preseason game on Tuesday at Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary. The puck drops at 6 p.m. MT and the game will be broadcast on KONG.

Coming off a 5-3 win against the Vancouver Canucks in their preseason opener, the Kraken are looking to build momentum. Right winger Jani Nyman scored two goals in that game, while Eduard Sale, Jaden Schwartz, and John Hayden also contributed to the scoreboard.

Goalie competition is heating up as Philipp Grubauer seeks to prove himself against Matt Murray for a backup position behind starter Joey Daccord. Grubauer played a half-game last week against the Flames, stopping 17 of 19 shots, but has yet to play a full 60 minutes this preseason. Meanwhile, Murray showcased his skills in his last outing, stopping 33 of 36 shots against Vancouver.

“I just have more range and a lot less pain,” said Murray, reflecting on his recovery from hip surgery.

Head Coach Lane Lambert emphasized the importance of these preseason games. “Clearly, games are maybe a little bit more heavily evaluated,” Lambert said, highlighting the need for players to seize their opportunities.

Another focus for the Kraken is their top prospect Berkly Catton, who is expected to play on a line with Matty Beniers and Jani Nyman. This marks a new experience for the 19-year-old, who has yet to score in the preseason. Catton is stepping into a position left vacant by injured forward Kaapo Kakko, and will need to demonstrate his ability to compete.

On the injury front, both Jared McCann and Chandler Stephenson are said to be progressing well, aiming for readiness by the season opener on October 9. Although they are unlikely to appear in the final two preseason games, their returns are anticipated eagerly by fans.

As for the Flames, they come into this matchup with a 1-1 record, recently losing to the Edmonton Oilers. Flames defenseman Zayne Parekh, who impressed in his first preseason game, will be looking to secure his roster spot as the team finalizes its lineup ahead of the regular season.

With both teams eager to assess their rosters, the matchup promises excitement for hockey fans. The Kraken will look to capitalize on their recent success and solidify their plans moving forward in the preseason.