The Seattle Kraken are heading into a busy week, both on and off the ice, with several key storylines developing. Here's a breakdown of what to watch for from Dec. 22-28, 2025:
Marchment Trade Signals a Shift
In a move that indicates a potential shift in strategy, the Kraken traded forward Mason Marchment to the Columbus Blue Jackets just before the holiday roster freeze. In return, Seattle acquired a 2027 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick. General Manager Jason Botterill emphasized gaining future assets and flexibility with the trade. Marchment, who had 4 goals and 9 assists in 29 games with the Kraken, was seen as a valuable asset to recoup benefits from what appears to be a lost season, as the Kraken are currently sitting in seventh place in the Pacific Division.
The trade also suggests that the Kraken weren't completely satisfied with Marchment's performance, despite utilizing him in a significant role. Some observers felt his performance was inconsistent, and he was involved in a few on-ice incidents. Coach Lane Lambert acknowledged the need to shuffle the lines and provide opportunities for other players. Kaapo Kakko has taken Marchment's spot on the top line, playing alongside Matty Beniers and Jordan Eberle.
Injury Woes Continue
The Kraken are battling a significant number of injuries to key players. Jared McCann remains sidelined with a lower-body injury. Brandon Montour missed the recent road trip due to an upper-body injury and personal reasons. Berkly Catton is recovering from an upper-body injury but has been seen skating in a non-contact jersey, offering hope for a possible return. Jaden Schwartz is also on injured reserve with a lower-body injury.
Upcoming Schedule
The Kraken have a busy schedule this week: * Monday, Dec. 22: @ Anaheim Ducks, Honda Center, 7:00 PM PT * Tuesday, Dec. 23: @ Los Angeles Kings, Crypto.com Arena, 7:00 PM PT * Sunday, Dec. 28: vs. Philadelphia Flyers, Climate Pledge Arena, 5:00 PM PT
The game against the Kings will be the final one before the holiday break. The match against the Flyers marks the first home game after their road trip.
Kraken Snap Skid
The Kraken enter the week on a positive note after snapping a four-game losing streak with a 4-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Saturday. Ryan Lindgren scored his first goal as a Kraken, and Chandler Stephenson continued his strong play with a goal and an assist. Stephenson has been a consistent bright spot for the team. Eeli Tolvanen also contributed a goal and an assist in the win against the Sharks. Goaltender Joey Daccord made 35 saves, helping to secure the victory. Tolvanen emphasized the importance of playing loose and confident, and the team's ability to rally in the third period.
The Kraken will aim to build on this momentum as they face the Ducks and Kings on the road before returning home to take on the Flyers. With injuries and roster changes, the team will need contributions from throughout the lineup to achieve success.
