Kraken Seek Momentum in Tough Back-to-Back Matchup Against Wild

ST. PAUL, Minn. – The Seattle Kraken aim to capitalize on their recent success as they face the Minnesota Wild in a back-to-back matchup on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. After a decisive 6-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks, the Kraken hope to continue their momentum in this crucial game.

Coach Dan Bylsma acknowledged the challenges of back-to-back games but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete. “Players aren’t mindful of it, but as coaches, you’re mindful of playing back-to-back,” Bylsma said after Tuesday’s win. “To have everyone roll over in the four lines, everyone sharing the responsibility, affords us the ability to compete at a high level.”

In their latest outing, the Kraken showcased a strong team effort, with 12 skaters contributing to the score sheet, including 10 who scored in the second period. The victory allowed the team to rotate all four lines, keeping players fresh for the upcoming game against the Western Conference wild-card leader.

Seattle’s roster features a competitive race for scoring leaders, with Eeli Tolvanen currently in the lead with 21 goals. Close behind are Jared McCann, Matty Beniers, and Shane Wright, each with 17 goals. Beniers and Wright are both on the verge of achieving their first 20-goal seasons, which speaks to their development and the team’s offensive depth.

On the other hand, the Wild come into the game battling injuries. Star forward Kirill Kaprizov has missed the last 18 games due to a lower-body injury and leads the team with 23 goals despite minimal play this season. Additionally, the Wild will compete without center Joel Eriksson Ek and defenseman Jonas Brodin, both sidelined with lower-body injuries.

Despite their injuries, the Wild, who have 81 points, secured a win against the Los Angeles Kings just two nights prior, showcasing their resilience. Minnesota currently ranks fourth in the Central Division and is looking to maintain momentum in the playoff race.

Both teams show contrasting stats; the Kraken have scored 37 goals while allowing 33 in their last 10 games, with a power-play success rate of 20 percent. Conversely, the Wild have struggled offensively, netting just nine goals in their recent outings.

The puck drops at 6:30 p.m. CT on TNT, as both teams look to solidify their standings in the tightly contested race for a playoff spot. “That’s what the [Minnesota] game presents tomorrow – a challenge,” Bylsma noted, emphasizing the importance of this matchup.