Full Breakdown
Kraken Defeat Canucks in Preseason Opener
9/22/2025, 12:37:32 PM
Game Overview: Seattle Kraken vs. Vancouver Canucks
In their first preseason game of the 2025-26 NHL season, the Seattle Kraken secured a 5-3 victory over the Vancouver Canucks at Climate Pledge Arena on September 21, 2025. The match showcased several promising prospects, particularly Jani Nyman, who scored two goals, and Eduard Sale, who netted the opening goal for Seattle. The Kraken led 1-0 after the first period and extended their lead to 4-2 by the end of the second.
Key Performers and Scoring Summary
Jani Nyman, a second-round draft choice in 2022, was a standout player, scoring twice in the second period. His first goal came from a pass by Kaapo Kakko, while his second was a powerful shot from the right wing circle, assisted again by Kakko. Eduard Sale opened the scoring for the Kraken with a well-placed shot following a 2-on-1 break, capitalizing on a turnover. Jaden Schwartz and John Hayden also contributed to the Kraken's scoring, with Schwartz netting a goal and assisting on Nyman's second goal.
For the Canucks, Victor Mancini, Chase Stillman, and Nils Aman found the back of the net. Mancini's goal tied the game early in the second period, but the Kraken quickly regained control. Chase Stillman scored on a penalty shot late in the second period, providing a brief glimmer of hope for Vancouver.
Goaltending Performance
In net for the Kraken, Joey Daccord started but was replaced by Nikke Kokko in the third period. Daccord faced several shots but managed to keep the Canucks at bay for most of the game. Vancouver's Nikita Tolopilo had a strong first period, making 13 saves, but was later replaced by Ty Young, who struggled to maintain the same level of performance.
Official Statements & Responses
Kraken head coach Lane Lambert expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, particularly highlighting the contributions of younger players like Nyman and Sale. "It’s great to see our prospects stepping up in a game that counts for their development," Lambert noted. Canucks head coach Adam Foote praised Tolopilo's early efforts but acknowledged the need for improvement in the team's defensive play.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the Kraken's victory, concerns were raised regarding the Canucks' defensive lapses, particularly in the second period when they allowed three goals in a short span. Critics pointed out that the young Canucks lineup, while filled with potential, struggled to contain the more experienced Kraken players. Foote remarked, "We need to tighten up our defensive coverage if we want to compete at this level."
What's Next
Following this preseason opener, the Kraken will face the Calgary Flames on September 23, while the Canucks will host the Flames the following day. Both teams will continue to evaluate their rosters as they prepare for the regular season, which begins on October 9, 2025.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I liked that I scored and last year I liked the way I played,” — Jani Nyman, Kraken Forward
- “Of course, he’s the Finnish guy so we’re both speaking the same language,” — Jani Nyman, on playing with Kaapo Kakko
- “He did a good job until our defence felt a little bit more comfortable.” — Adam Foote, Canucks Head Coach, on Nikita Tolopilo's performance.
