The NHL's newest franchise, the Seattle Kraken, has wasted no time in injecting excitement and intrigue into the league. While geographically distant, their budding rivalry with the St. Louis Blues showcases a captivating clash of styles that promises to entertain fans for years to come.
Building a Rivalry: From Expansion Draft to Heated Battles
The seeds of the Blues-Kraken rivalry were sown during the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft, where Seattle selected Vince Dunn from the St. Louis roster. This move, while standard procedure for an expansion team, immediately linked the two franchises.
Since then, on-ice battles have further fueled the fire. Tightly contested games, marked by physicality and passionate play, have quickly made Blues vs. Kraken a must-watch matchup. The geographical distance only adds to the intrigue, fostering a sense of cross-conference rivalry rarely seen in the NHL.
Clash of Styles: Experience vs. Newfound Grit
At the heart of the Blues-Kraken rivalry lies a captivating contrast in playing styles. The Blues, steeped in tradition and boasting a Stanley Cup pedigree, rely on a structured, defense-first system. Experience and a veteran core, led by players like Ryan O'Reilly and Vladimir Tarasenko, form the backbone of their success.
The Kraken, on the other hand, bring a youthful exuberance and a relentless, attacking style. Their speed and tenacity make them a challenging opponent for any team, as they constantly pressure the puck and force turnovers.
Key Matchups: Where the Battle is Won and Lost
Several key matchups highlight the contrasting styles of these two teams:
1. Blues' Defense vs. Kraken's Speed
The Blues' defensive structure, anchored by veterans like Torey Krug and Colton Parayko, faces a constant test against the Kraken's speedy forwards. Seattle's ability to transition quickly from defense to offense, led by the likes of Jordan Eberle and Jared McCann, forces the Blues to be sharp in their own end and limit turnovers.
2. Kraken's Physicality vs. Blues' Veteran Composure
The Kraken have shown a willingness to play a physical game, aiming to wear down their opponents. The Blues, however, boast a veteran core that has seen it all. Maintaining composure and not getting drawn into unnecessary penalties will be crucial for St. Louis to dictate the pace of play.
3. Goaltending Duel: Binnington vs. Grubauer
The battle between the pipes often proves decisive, and the Blues-Kraken matchup is no exception. Jordan Binnington, known for his big-game performances, provides a steadying presence for St. Louis. Philipp Grubauer, on the other hand, aims to backstop the Kraken with his athleticism and quick reflexes. The goaltending duel adds another layer of intrigue to this budding rivalry.
The Future of the Rivalry: A Pacific Division Battleground
With the Seattle Kraken joining the Pacific Division, the Blues-Kraken rivalry is poised to become a regular feature on the NHL calendar. This increased frequency of games will only intensify the competition and allow the rivalry to flourish organically.
As both teams evolve and mature, the storylines will undoubtedly multiply. Will the Kraken's young core continue to develop and challenge the established order? Can the Blues maintain their competitive window and add another Stanley Cup to their legacy?
One thing is certain: the Blues vs. Kraken matchup offers a captivating clash of styles, fueled by passion and a hunger for victory. This rivalry, still in its early chapters, promises to be a compelling watch for NHL fans for years to come. As the competition on the ice heats up, so too will the passion in the stands, solidifying the Blues-Kraken rivalry as a must-watch event in the ever-evolving landscape of the NHL.
FAQs About the Blues vs. Kraken Rivalry
1. When did the Seattle Kraken play their first game?
The Seattle Kraken played their first NHL game on October 12, 2021, against the Vegas Golden Knights.
2. Have the Kraken ever beaten the Blues in the playoffs?
As of the 2022-2023 NHL season, the Kraken have not yet faced the Blues in the playoffs.
3. Who are some of the key players to watch in a Blues vs. Kraken game?
For the Blues: Ryan O'Reilly, Vladimir Tarasenko, Jordan Binnington, Torey Krug, and Colton Parayko.
For the Kraken: Matty Beniers, Andre Burakovsky, Jordan Eberle, Philipp Grubauer, and Vince Dunn.
4. What makes the Blues and Kraken rivalry unique?
Despite the geographical distance, the contrasting styles of play and the passionate on-ice battles make the Blues-Kraken rivalry unique. It showcases the old guard of the NHL clashing with a new, hungry franchise.
5. Where can I watch Blues vs. Kraken games?
Blues vs. Kraken games are typically broadcasted on ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and local regional sports networks. You can also catch the games on NHL Center Ice or listen on the radio.