On Sunday, March 16, 2025, the Winnipeg Jets clinched victory over the Seattle Kraken with a thrilling 3-2 overtime win at Climate Pledge Arena, reinforcing their position as the league's top team. This matchup unfolded as the Jets showcased their playoff ambition against the Kraken, who were eager to extend their successful homestand with one last win.
The game kicked off with palpable energy, as the Kraken surged to a 2-0 lead within the first period. Young star Jani Nyman netted the first goal at 9:58 during a power play, followed by trade acquisition Mikey Eyssimont scoring his second goal for Seattle at 15:23. Eyssimont's contribution reflected his rapid adjustment to the team since being acquired just days prior, illustrating the impact of General Manager Ron Francis’s recent trade moves.
"We’re playing good hockey as of late," stated Kraken's leading scorer Chandler Stephenson to Kraken Hockey Network's Piper Shaw. He acknowledged the missed opportunity to close out the game, adding, "But there are good things we can take from the game...we played well and limited the opportunities against a good team." The Kraken's early success, bolstered by their impressive work on special teams, created excitement among the home crowd.
Despite the Kraken's strong start, the Jets responded decisively as the game progressed. With just 17 seconds left in the first period, rookie Cole Perfetti pounced on a rebound to score, cutting the Kraken's lead to 2-1. This late goal shifted momentum, drawing the Jets closer as they ended the period with renewed determination.
Entering the second frame, the Jets continued to capitalize on their momentum, tying the game 2-2 with Kyle Connor scoring his 36th of the season, skillfully assisted by Morgan Barron. Winnipeg’s coach, Scott Arniel, praised Barron’s defensive effort leading to the goal, stating, "The biggest thing (Barron) gets the accolades for was the blocked shot. If he doesn’t do [that], maybe it ends up in the back of our net."
Seattle's goaltender Joey Daccord had been performing admirably, making multiple key saves throughout the game, especially during tense moments of Jets power plays. Notably, he managed to halt significant shots from both Connor and Perfetti, keeping the Kraken competitive during the intensity of the game.
Head Coach Dan Bylsma emphasized the determined spirit of his players, acknowledging the effort put forth, saying, "Each and every one of the games we played...it's been hard-fought. It's disappointing because of the way our guys fought, the way our guys played the whole 60 minutes." Daccord’s resilience was especially applauded, as he faced high-pressure shots from the Jets’ offensive stars.
The final period set the stage for overtime. During the extra session, Jets' defenseman Dylan Samberg emerged as the hero, scoring just 1:47 minutes in, showcasing aggressive play and capitalizing on open ice. Samberg received the puck from his former roommate Cole Perfetti and slotted the game-winner home, much to the delight of the traveling Jets fans.
"I don’t get to play overtime very often. It was fun and worked out," Samberg said post-game, highlighting his growth as not only a stay-at-home defenceman but also as someone capable of impactful offensive play. The win marked the Jets' third consecutive victory, solidifying their record at 47-17-4, the best in the NHL.
Reflecting on the game's closing moments, the atmosphere was electric, especially with ex-Kraken player Brandon Tanev facing his former teammates. Tanev received both cheers and jeers from the crowd, indicative of his polarizing presence, epitomized when he was honored with a tribute video mid-game.
The aftermath of the match leaves Seattle’s record at 29-34-5, ending their homestand on mixed terms. Kraken fans remain hopeful as their team shows promise of development and potential moving forward. Meanwhile, the Jets continue to chase the Stanley Cup, with their upcoming fixtures presenting challenges and opportunities to strengthen their playoff seeding.
Statistics reflected Sean Comrie's performance, who, aside from facing challenges from the Kraken's offense, finished with 16 saves on 17 shots before his early exit from the game due to temporary injury. "I understand what they are doing, just trying to keep safety...they do a great job of making sure we have a safe playing field out there," Comrie commented post-game about the league's concussion protocols.
Next, both teams will prepare for their upcoming matches, with the Kraken continuing to focus on refining their play and the Jets gearing up for opponents from their own division.