Kraken Focus on Defensive Breakouts Against Flames in Key Matchup

CALGARY, Alberta — The Seattle Kraken are preparing to face the Calgary Flames on Tuesday, March 25, after a narrow loss to the Edmonton Oilers. Kraken head coach Dan Bylsma emphasized the importance of solid defensive play as the team aims to improve their breakout execution against a formidable Flames squad.

“I didn’t particularly think we broke the puck out very well,” Bylsma said following a practice session at the Kraken Community Iceplex. “It led to a lot of the turmoil in the game… During 5-on-5 play, we weren’t executing the way we can, the way we need to, to have success.”

Bylsma noted that Calgary poses challenges with their aggressive forecheck, which makes it crucial for the Kraken to maintain puck possession in their defensive zone. Alternate captain Matty Beniers echoed Bylsma’s sentiments, stating, “We’re going to have to do a lot better job of the pickups than last game, for sure.”

Beniers highlighted the importance of a successful breakout, explaining, “When we’re breaking out well, we’re playing with confidence. We’re holding on to the puck and making that play up along the wall instead of just shipping it out every time.”

In addition to improving defensive breakouts, Beniers is developing chemistry with his Finnish linemates, Jani Nyman and Kaapo Kakko. The trio performed well in a previous game, generating multiple scoring opportunities.

<p“We’re still working out kinks in the D-zone and getting in the right spots,” Beniers said regarding communication with his linemates. “I think we can just do better as a team, but especially as a line just talking better when we’re in the D-zone.”

Despite the Kraken’s struggles this season, they will be looking to capitalize on Calgary’s recent performance, as the Flames are currently in a playoff chase, holding 77 points in the standings. The Flames have three games in hand compared to the St. Louis Blues, who sit in the second wild-card spot.

Calgary’s rookie goaltender Dustin Wolf has been a standout player, recorded a 23-14-5 record with a 2.63 goals-against average. Wolf’s performances have been a significant factor in Calgary securing critical wins as they seek to secure a playoff berth.

The Flames’ key players, including Jonathan Huberdeau and Nazem Kadri, are also contributing significantly as they average a combined 53 goals this season. Huberdeau has recently scored seven points in his last five games.

The matchup on Tuesday marks the fourth meeting between these two teams this season, with the Kraken previously winning two out of three games. The contest will take place at the Scotiabank Saddledome at 9 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN+.

As both teams vie for an important two points, fans are eager to see how the Kraken will respond defensively against a tough Flames lineup looking to extend their winning streak.