SEATTLE — Eeli Tolvanen had a standout performance for the Seattle Kraken, finding the net twice to help secure a 4-2 victory over the Utah Hockey Club on Friday night.
Tolvanen wasted no time, scoring his first goal just 51 seconds into the match. His second was an empty-net goal with only 1:09 remaining, ensuring their win. Other Seattle contributors included Brandon Montour and Kaapo Kakko, who each netted a goal. Tolvanen also added an assist, while Jordan Eberle played a pivotal role with two assists, bringing his total to five in just two games. Seattle’s goalie, Philipp Grubauer, demonstrated strong defense with 22 saves.
For Utah, Nick Schmaltz and Kevin Stenlund each found the back of the net, with Karel Vejmelka making 18 saves to keep his team in the game. Tolvanen’s opening goal was significant, marking the first time he has reached 20 goals in a season.
Schmaltz equalized the game at 1-1 with 3:12 left in the first period. Then, Stenlund capitalized on a turnover in the neutral zone, scoring a goal that gave Utah a 2-1 lead 7:35 into the second period. Montour responded with a goal for Seattle to tie it at 2-2 just before the second period ended.
In terms of achievements for Utah, Schmaltz’s score extended his streak to three consecutive road games with at least one goal. Stenlund, along with Dylan Guenther and Jack McBain, have also managed to maintain three-game road scoring streaks this season.
For the Kraken, Tolvanen’s quick goal represented the sixth time this season that Seattle has scored within the first minute of a game, the highest in the league. The record quickest goal remains with Jaden Schwartz, who scored 19 seconds into a home match against Carolina on December 3.
A critical moment occurred when the match was deadlocked at 2-2. Mikhail Sergachev from Utah attempted to clear the puck from behind his net, but it ricocheted off the sides. Kakko seized the opportunity, scooping up the puck and swiftly wrapping it around the post past Vejmelka.
Grubauer’s performance was notable as it marked his second start since a brief period in the minors at Coachella Valley. He emerged victorious in both outings, holding solid in the net.
Looking ahead, the Seattle Kraken are set to host Winnipeg, while Utah will be traveling to face off against Vancouver. Both games are scheduled for Sunday night.
