Kraken Host Oilers as Montour Returns to Action

SEATTLE, WA — The Seattle Kraken will welcome back defenseman Brandon Montour as they aim for their third consecutive home victory against the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday night at Climate Pledge Arena. Montour, who missed the last four games due to personal reasons, spoke emotionally about his return during Saturday’s morning skate.

“It feels really good to be back with the guys,” Montour said. “I’ve missed being on the ice and competing with my teammates. The fans have always supported me, and I can’t wait to play in front of them again.”

In a roster update, the Kraken announced forward Jared McCann has been placed on injured reserve with a lower-body injury. Head coach Lane Lambert confirmed that McCann is still considered day-to-day. Meanwhile, Kaapo Kakko skated with the team and is also day-to-day as he works his way back from injury.

Lambert praised Jaden Schwartz for his impressive two-goal performance during the Kraken’s 3-0 win over the Winnipeg Jets, emphasizing his all-around contribution to the game. He also noted Chandler Stephenson’s faceoff performance, stating, “What matters is where the puck ends up, not just the win percentage.”

Shane Wright is another player to watch this evening. The young forward has been impactful, contributing two goals and three assists, including an assist on Schwartz’s first goal in the previous game.

On the penalty kill front, Lambert highlighted that the Kraken’s penalty kill units have been effective this season despite a middle-tier statistical ranking. “Our penalty kill has been good this year,” he explained, referencing their expected goals against and overall performance. Analyst Alison Lukan corroborated Lambert’s claims, noting an improvement from last season.

The Oilers, sitting just below the Kraken in the Pacific Division, are seeking to solidify their own record. Coach Kris Knoblauch recently shuffled the lineup, placing 19-year-old rookie Isaac Howard on the top line with superstar Connor McDavid. Edmonton hopes to capitalize on their offensive depth, ranking just behind Seattle in points.

With both teams showing depth and resilience, the matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter. The puck drops at 10 p.m. ET, and fans are expected to bring an electric atmosphere to Seattle’s arena.