Post-Game Instant Analysis: Colorado at Seattle

The defending Stanley Cup champions came to town to face the Kraken who were without Jaden Schwartz, Justin Schultzand Andre Burakovsky (a late scratch). Both teams battled and it was a close checking game that saw surges in momentum followed by waves of defensive demand. Both goaltenders were outstanding in backstopping their team through chances from all areas of the ice. The game was so close it would force overtime before going to the skills competition. Ultimately, the only goal of the shootout (by Nathan MacKinnon) would clinch the win for the visitors.

Let’s look at the game “by the numbers.”

• The Kraken were solid in periods one and three in terms of controlling play. And even with an uncharacteristically quieter second, they did own the overall possession advantage in the game. Seattle earned 51.22 percent of all shot attempts and 53.61 percent of all shot quality.
• Both goaltenders were solid in this game. Phillip Grubauer Had 59 pucks sent his way while Pavel Francouz faced 60 total shot attempts. Each only let in one in even-strength play and both earned a quality start according to Sportlogiq.
• However, it was Grubauer who was arguably more impressive. While his team didn’t win the game, Sportlogiq has Grubauer turning away more quality (plus-1.0 goals against).
• John Hayden saw his first NHL action of the season and was part of a line with Morgan Geekie other Brandon Tanev that was plus-five in shot attempts and earned 57.14-percent of all shot quality in 7:43 of play. Only Yanni Gourde‘s line was more effective this game.
• The Kraken penalty kill kept Colorado’s third-ranked power play off the scoresheet. Seattle is now perfect in short-handed play in four straight games.

Here’s a look at our data-driven Instant Analysis from Sportlogiq (click HERE for how to read this graphic):