Oilers and Kraken Set to Clash: Projected Lineups for Tonight's Matchup

As the Edmonton Oilers prepare to face off against the Seattle Kraken tonight, fans are eager to see how the teams will line up. Both teams are coming into this game with similar records, setting the stage for a competitive contest. The Oilers currently hold a 4-3-1 record, while the Kraken are 4-2-2.

Oilers' Projected Lineup

Coach Kris Knoblauch has been experimenting with the Oilers' lines recently, giving opportunities to young talents like Isaac Howard and Matthew Savoie. These changes suggest a dynamic approach as the coaching staff seeks to optimize the team's performance.

Here's the projected lineup for the Oilers:

• Forwards:
  • Isaac Howard -- Connor McDavid -- Andrew Mangiapane
  • Matthew Savoie -- Leon Draisaitl -- Vasily Podkolzin
  • Adam Henrique -- Ryan Nugent-Hopkins -- Jack Roslovic
  • David Tomasek -- Noah Philp -- Trent Frederic
• Defense:
  • Mattias Ekholm -- Evan Bouchard
  • Darnell Nurse -- Jake Walman
  • Brett Kulak -- Ty Emberson
• Goalies:
  • Stuart Skinner (Likely starter)
  • Calvin Pickard

Scratched: Curtis Lazar, Troy Stecher

Injured: Zach Hyman (wrist), Mattias Janmark (undisclosed), Kasperi Kapanen (knee), Alec Regula (undisclosed)

Andrew Mangiapane has been finding his place within the Oilers' lineup, bringing a mix of energy and skill to the middle-six. His mature game and consistent work ethic are valuable assets to the team. Matthew Savoie, after a strong training camp, is expected to have a full-time opportunity in the top-six forward group, potentially alongside Draisaitl and Mangiapane.

Kraken's Projected Lineup

The Seattle Kraken, coached by Lane Lambert, face some injury challenges, but are looking to solidify their lines. The team has been giving opportunities to new players like Berkly Catton, Jani Nyman and Ryan Winterton.

Here's the projected lineup for the Kraken:

• Forwards:
  • Berkly Catton -- Matty Beniers -- Jordan Eberle
  • Mason Marchment -- Chandler Stephenson -- Eeli Tolvanen
  • Jaden Schwartz -- Shane Wright -- Jani Nyman
  • Tye Kartye -- Ben Meyers -- Ryan Winterton
• Defense:
  • Vince Dunn -- Adam Larsson
  • Ryan Lindgren -- Brandon Montour
  • Josh Mahura -- Jamie Oleksiak
• Goalies:
  • Joey Daccord (Likely starter)
  • Matt Murray

Scratched: Philipp Grubauer, John Hayden, Cale Fleury

Injured: Ryker Evans (upper body), Kaapo Kakko (hand), Frederick Gaudreau (upper body), Jared McCann (lower body)

Brandon Montour will be returning to the lineup after missing four games following the death of his brother. Jared McCann has been moved to injured reserve, though coach Lambert indicated he is still day-to-day. Kaapo Kakko, recovering from a broken hand, has been skating with the team and is progressing towards a return. Rookie Berkly Catton, a first-round pick in 2024, has made the opening night roster and is set to make his official Kraken debut.

Keys to the Game

• Oilers' Offense: The Oilers will need their top players, Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, to lead the charge offensively. The performance of the newly formed lines with Howard and Savoie will also be crucial.
• Kraken's Defense: The Kraken's defense, led by Vince Dunn and Adam Larsson, will need to contain the Oilers' potent attack. Goaltender Joey Daccord will need to be sharp.
• Special Teams: Special teams could play a significant role in the outcome of the game. The Oilers will look to capitalize on their power play opportunities, while the Kraken will need to be disciplined and avoid penalties.

This matchup promises to be an exciting contest between two teams with aspirations of making a playoff push. Fans can catch the game tonight at 10 p.m. ET on KHN, KONG, SN1, and CBC.