Okay, here's a news article about the Seattle Kraken's top performers in December, based on recent information. I will use the tool to get the latest updates.
Despite a rocky December for the Seattle Kraken, marked by a significant slump and a 5-7-1 record, several players managed to shine. The team struggled, losing 10 of 13 games and 9 of their last 10, impacting their playoff hopes. Injuries to key players like Jared McCann and Jaden Schwartz further hampered the team's performance. However, individual efforts provided some bright spots. Here's a look at the Kraken's three stars of December:
First Star: Philipp Grubauer
Goaltender Philipp Grubauer stood out as a key player for the Kraken in December. Despite the team's struggles, Grubauer's performance in net was consistently strong. According to Evolving-Hockey.com, Grubauer saved 3.89 more goals than expected based on shot quality, ranking fourth-best in his NHL career. He showcased a .917 save percentage this season. The Kraken allowed two goals or fewer in eight of 11 contests since December 8, with Grubauer contributing to a 4-0-1 record in the five games where this occurred.
Second Star: Eeli Tolvanen
Eeli Tolvanen has been a consistent offensive force for the Kraken. He is tied for the team lead in points. Tolvanen has capitalized on increased ice time due to injuries in the lineup, increasing his production from 0.5 points per game to 1.2 points per game in his most recent stretch.
Third Star: Jacob Melanson
The young rookie, Jacob Melanson, earned the third star. Called up to the Kraken in December, Melanson made an immediate impact. He recorded his first NHL assist on December 29th in a game against the Vancouver Canucks. Melanson's assist helped Ryan Winterton score, giving the Kraken a lead.
December saw the Kraken grapple with scoring issues, ranking low in the league for goals per game. The team traded Mason Marchment to the Columbus Blue Jackets, receiving draft picks in return. Despite these challenges and a crowded Western Conference standings, some individual performances offered a glimmer of hope as the Kraken headed into the new year. They finished December with a record of 16-14-7.
