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Kraken Face Mammoth in Crucial Playoff Showdown

1/18/2026

42 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Seattle Kraken (21-16-9) will face Utah Mammoth (24-20-4) on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in a game with playoff implications.
The Kraken are on a five-game road trip and lost 4-2 at Boston, their second straight defeat.
Jason Botterill, the Kraken general manager, expressed optimism about the team's depth and the return of Brandon Montour.
Utah Mammoth are on a six-game point streak and seek to maintain their playoff position.

History

Historical Context

The NHL expanded from six to twelve teams in 1967, marking the end of the Original Six era. This expansion included franchises like the Los Angeles Kings and Minnesota North Stars, aimed at countering competition from the Western Hockey League. The new playoff format and increased team numbers laid the foundation for the league's growth, influencing the current aspirations of teams like the Seattle Kraken.

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Story summary

Seattle Kraken (21-16-9) will face Utah Mammoth (24-20-4) on Saturday, January 17, 2026, in a game with playoff implications.
The Kraken are on a five-game road trip and lost 4-2 at Boston, their second straight defeat.
Jason Botterill, the Kraken general manager, expressed optimism about the team's depth and the return of Brandon Montour.
Utah Mammoth are on a six-game point streak and seek to maintain their playoff position.

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