Seattle Kraken Face Challenge Without Captain Jordan Eberle in Division Showdown

The Seattle Kraken are gearing up for a significant series of games, starting with a matchup against the Los Angeles Kings. The team is set to play five consecutive division games over eight days, beginning with a matinee clash in Los Angeles. Both teams currently hold ten wins each, underscoring the competitiveness in the Pacific Division. However, the Kraken will face these challenges without their captain, Jordan Eberle, who has been sidelined due to an injury.

On Friday, the Kraken announced that Eberle underwent pelvic surgery and will be absent from the lineup for approximately three months. Eberle has been a key player for Seattle this season, recording six goals and five assists before his injury during a game against the Chicago Blackhawks. Despite his absence, the Kraken managed to secure victory in three out of four recent games, elevating their record to 10-9-1 at this early stage of the 2024-25 NHL season.

To adapt to Eberle’s absence, coach Dan Bylsma has reshuffled the lineup, placing Andre Burakovsky alongside Matty Beniers and Jared McCann. Burakovsky has been praised for his puck possession skills, although Bylsma encourages the forward to be more proactive in shooting. On the defensive side, with Vince Dunn also out, Ryker Evans has stepped up, notably taking on the role of quarterback for a power play unit. Dunn, who has only participated in four games this season, is traveling with the team to practice, indicating his potential return.

Meanwhile, Daniel Sprong’s return to the team has proven timely, filling the gap left by Eberle. Known for his elite shooting ability, Sprong recently scored his first goal for the Kraken against his new linemate, Chandler Stephenson, demonstrating solid chemistry.

As the Kraken prepare to face the Kings, they do so with the knowledge of recent shifts in the dynamics between the two teams. While Seattle has won five of their last six games, the Kings have struggled, dropping three of their last four. Seattle coach Bylsma acknowledges the challenge of facing Los Angeles, a team known for its 1-3-1 formation in the neutral zone, which can slow the pace of the game. However, he emphasizes the need for the Kraken to maintain their fast-paced playing style.

This game will serve as a pivotal moment for both teams, standing neck and neck in the division standings. Seattle will rely on strong performances from players like Burakovsky and Sprong, as well as the continued resilience in adapting their strategies in Eberle’s absence.