On January 2, 2025, the Vancouver Canucks are set to clash against the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena, marking both teams' first game of the new year. With the Canucks standing at 17 wins, 11 losses, and 8 overtime losses, they are desperate for victory against their Pacific Division rivals, the Kraken, who currently hold a record of 17 wins and 19 losses.
This matchup is particularly significant as the Kraken previously made headlines after astonishingly coming back from a 4-1 deficit to defeat the Canucks 5-4 in overtime during their last encounter. The game, held just days prior on December 28, showcased the Kraken's tenacity and has since left the Canucks reeling, having lost five of their last six games. Another loss would mean two three-game losing streaks within just two weeks—a disastrous outcome following the team's lofty expectations heading toward the season.
The stakes are high for the Canucks as they seek not just to flip the script on their fortunes but also to solidify their standing against the Kraken. Historically, the Canucks have had the upper hand against Seattle, with 4 wins out of 6 games played on the road, but recent performances have indicated otherwise. With this upcoming matchup, they aim to maintain their record against the Kraken, all the more pressing after losing to them on their home turf.
Leading up to the game, the Canucks displayed some shuffling of their lines. Coach Rick Tocchet has made game-time decisions about their defense lineup, which has faced scrutiny due to recent underperformance and injuries among their core players. Projected lineups for the game see the likes of Jake DeBrusk, J.T. Miller, and Brock Boeser ideally positioned to lead the charge against the Kraken. Thatcher Demko has been confirmed as the starting goaltender; he has been consistent recently, securing 2 wins out of 4 games.
Conversely, the Kraken, coming off two back-to-back wins, are expected to ride their momentum as they step back onto the ice. Philipp Grubauer will again take the lead as the starting goalie after facing the Canucks last week and allowing four goals. The Kraken's lineup maintains Jaden Schwartz and Matty Beniers, who have been instrumental for the team, especially during their recent victories.
While both teams prepare for this pivotal match, off-ice drama continues to swirl around the Canucks. Reports suggest deepening rifts between key players, particularly J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson. Criticism from general manager Patrik Allvin concerning Pettersson's gameplay has unnerved fans and players alike. Former Canucks player Brad Richardson has weighed in on the situation claiming, "You’re going to lose this guy if you keep doing it...Something’s going to give." This internal friction adds another layer of complexity to the team's performance as they strive to reclaim their footing.
Former captain Bo Horvat's comments on the tensions also reflect the precarious environment within the locker room, affirming there's always potential for disagreements among teammates. Deferred hopes of camaraderie clash with expectations, which many feel have been complicated by the on-ice struggles and management's public pronouncements.
The Canucks' last game against the Kraken saw Conor Garland emerge as a standout player, adding his 13th point against them. Jake DeBrusk has also been on point recently, demonstrating his scoring abilities with contributions leading to goals. Meanwhile, on the Kraken's end, players like Jared McCann have been invaluable, especially with their recent offensive output.
With the New Year officially underway, expectations are elevated as fans gather for this enticing rematch. The Canucks aim to turn the tide before the pressure mounts even more. The atmosphere at Climate Pledge Arena promises to be electric as each side looks to not only earn two points but to settle the score from the earlier meeting.
For those wishing to catch the game, it will be available for streaming on Sportsnet Pacific, KHN, and KONG, with the radio broadcast airing on Sportsnet 650 for fans unable to watch live.
Thursday night’s matchup offers the Vancouver Canucks their best chance at redemption as they seek to lessen the noise surrounding their team and channel their energy back onto the ice against the Seattle Kraken.