Capitals’ Chychrun and van Riemsdyk Shine as Lindgren Returns in Seattle Clash

SEATTLE, Wash. – The Washington Capitals, riding a five-game winning streak, face the Seattle Kraken tonight at Climate Pledge Arena in the first of their two meetings this season. The Capitals, who earned their first victory in Seattle last March, are looking to extend their impressive 23-6-5 record over their last 34 games, fueled by a dominant defensive performance.

Washington’s defensive pairing of Jakob Chychrun and Trevor van Riemsdyk has been a standout, outscoring opponents 14-7 in nearly 300 minutes of 5-on-5 play. According to naturalstattrick.com, only three other NHL defensive pairings with comparable ice time have a higher goals-for percentage. “He breaks the puck out really well on his own, and he’s a great communicator,” said van Riemsdyk of Chychrun. “We don’t spend a lot of time in our own end, and that’s the key.”

Chychrun, known for his offensive prowess, has also impressed with his defensive play. “He’s really strong and takes pride in defending,” van Riemsdyk added. The duo’s chemistry has been a key factor in Washington’s success, with Chychrun contributing 13 goals and 31 points this season, nearing his career highs.

In goal, Charlie Lindgren returns to the net for the first time since suffering an upper-body injury on Jan. 10. Lindgren, who has a 1.00 goals-against average and a .960 save percentage in two career starts against the Kraken, will look to continue his strong form. Meanwhile, Seattle’s Joey Daccord, who has won four of his last five starts, will aim to maintain his recent success against the Capitals.

The Kraken, winners of their last two home games, are seeking to close out their four-game homestand on a high note. With both teams in strong form, tonight’s matchup promises to be a tightly contested battle.