SEATTLE — In an impressive display of skill, Jaden Schwartz netted a power-play goal just 1:34 into the third period, contributing to the Seattle Kraken’s victory over the Chicago Blackhawks with a final score of 3-1, thereby extending their winning streak to three games.
Matty Beniers and Brandon Tanev also added to the scoreboard for the Kraken during the match. Beniers opened the scoring with a goal at 4:18 in the second period, setting a strong precedent for the team. Schwartz’s subsequent goal cemented Seattle’s lead, creating a two-goal advantage that would prove crucial moments later.
Shortly after Schwartz’s goal, Ryan Donato, a former Kraken player, managed to narrow the gap for Chicago by scoring his eighth goal of the season. However, Tanev’s empty-net goal with just 19 seconds remaining sealed the victory for Seattle.
In goal, Seattle’s Joey Daccord showcased solid performance with 18 saves, while Petr Mrazek of Chicago stopped 23 shots in a valiant effort.
Unfortunately for the Kraken, captain Jordan Eberle left the ice and did not return after a collision with the boards just 17 seconds into the second period, raising concerns about his condition going forward.
Takeaways from the game highlight the struggles of the Blackhawks, whose offense ranks 26th in the league. They have struggled significantly, managing to score just one goal in three of their last four outings.
On the other hand, the Kraken have found their rhythm offensively, accumulating 12 goals over their last three home games, a sharp contrast to their recent road trip where they only scored four goals in four games.
A pivotal moment occurred when Schwartz recorded his 200th career goal, marking a significant milestone. This goal provided the initiative needed for the Kraken, leaving the Blackhawks trailing even after Donato’s score, as Seattle’s defense held firm for the remainder of the game.
Notably, the Kraken outshot the Blackhawks 26-19 overall, with an impressive 20-9 lead in the first two periods, demonstrating their dominance on the ice.
Looking ahead, the Blackhawks will be facing off against the Vancouver Canucks on Saturday night, while the Kraken will be taking on the New York Islanders in their next game on Saturday afternoon.