Jessica: What if I told you the Seattle Kraken are sitting pretty at number one in the Pacific Division with a perfect zero-zero-zero record, but the real story isn't on the ice yet? It’s happening in training camp. We’re talking about a ten-man center battle that could define the entire season before puck drop.
Mark: That is right. Ten centers fighting for spots. And don’t even get me started on the goalie carousel. Joey Daccord was our prediction last week to start opening night against Calgary, but with Matt Murray and Philipp Grubauer also in the mix, this is far from settled. Welcome to the Beatline Podcast Network.
Jessica: I’m Jessica, alongside Mark. Today is our mailbag edition. We’ve got your questions coming in hot about the roster battles, the wild card projection we made back on the ninth, and whether Shane Wright can actually hit that thirty-goal mark this year. Let’s dive into the inbox.
Mark: We’re looking at the standings, sure. But mostly, we’re looking at depth charts. From Ryker Evans on defense to Mackie Samoskevich pushing for those wing spots, every inch of this roster is up for grabs. Let’s see what you guys want to know first.
Jessica: Alright, let’s start with a big one from @KrakenFan88. They’re asking about the center depth chart specifically. With Matty Beniers anchoring the top line, who do they see running the second unit? There are so many names here.
Mark: It’s a fascinating puzzle. You have Chandler Stephenson bringing that veteran two-way game, but then you look at Shane Wright. If he’s scoring thirty goals like we predicted, he might not be stuck on the third line. He has the skill to drive a second-line power play.
Jessica: Right, and let’s not forget Berkly Catton. He’s young, but he’s got that creative spark. Frederick Gaudreau is also there, providing experience. How do you balance all that talent without clogging up the neutral zone?
Mark: You manage it through matchups. Steve Yzerman has to decide who plays with whom. If you put Stephenson and Beniers together, you need speed on the other lines. That’s where Catton or maybe even Curtis Douglas comes in. Remember, we said last episode Douglas might make the final roster as the tenth forward.
Jessica: Oh no, did we just jinx Douglas? That was a bold call yesterday. But think about it—his defensive awareness fits the system. If he can win faceoffs and kill penalties, he earns his keep. But what about Bobby McMann? He’s physical. Does he fit here?
Mark: McMann is more of a fourth-line grinder. If the team needs grit, he’s there. But for pure point production, you’re looking at Wright or Stephenson. The issue is, if you have ten centers, someone is getting sent down to the AHL or left out entirely. It’s a brutal cut.
Jessica: Speaking of cuts, let’s go to Sarah from Everett. She’s worried about the goalie situation. You predicted Daccord would start against Calgary, but with Matt Murray on the roster, isn’t that a risk? What if Murray steals the job in camp?
Mark: It’s a valid concern. Murray has pedigree. But Daccord has been consistent. The coaching staff likes his positioning. However, having three goalies—Daccord, Grubauer, and Murray—is unusual. Usually, you carry two. Nikke Kokko and Victor Ostman are likely ELCs or prospects who won’t make the final cut.
Jessica: So, five goalies in camp, but only two on the opening night roster? That leaves three guys watching from home. Tough break for Kokko and Ostman. But Mark, do you still stand by Daccord starting?
Mark: I do. Until proven otherwise, Daccord is the guy. He knows the system. Murray might be the better athlete, but hockey is often about familiarity. Plus, Grubauer provides insurance. If Daccord gets hurt, Grubauer steps in. It’s a solid plan.
Jessica: Okay, let’s move to another question. This one from @PacificPuckHead. They’re asking about the defense pairings. Vince Dunn is obviously the anchor, but who is his partner? And how does Brandon Montour fit in?
Mark: Montour brings offensive juice. He’s great on the power play. Dunn is more defensive-minded but can move the puck. Pairing them makes sense offensively, but defensively, you need Ryan Lindgren and Adam Larsson to clean up. Larsson is the shutdown specialist.
Jessica: And Ryker Evans? He’s young. Is he ready for NHL minutes right away, or should he start in the minors?
Mark: Evans is fast. He can join the rush. But his defensive zone coverage needs work. I’d expect him to see time, especially if Cale Fleury is struggling. Fleury has potential, but consistency is key. Evans gives you speed; Fleury gives you size.
Jessica: So, speed vs. size. That’s the dilemma. Let’s take a quick break. We’ll be right back with more mailbag questions, including that wild card projection we made earlier this week. Stick with us.
Jessica: Welcome back. We’re continuing with your questions. This one comes from Marcus in Bellevue. He’s asking about the left wing spot. Jared McCann is clearly the star, but who is next? Kaapo Kakko? Jordan Eberle?
Mark: McCann is going to be huge. We called him the MVP candidate last week. For the second line, you have options. Kakko has improved his shot. Eberle brings veteran savvy. But Jacob Melanson and Jani Nyman are pushing hard too.
Jessica: Nyman is an interesting name. He’s a rookie. Do you think he can compete for a spot right now, or is he too raw?
Mark: He’s talented, but raw. Hockey IQ takes time. Melanson has more experience. He’s physical and net-front. If the team needs energy, Melanson is your guy. Eberle is reliable, but he’s aging. You can’t rely on him forever.
Jessica: Fair point. So, McCann, Kakko, Melanson, Eberle. That’s four. Who’s fifth? And remember, we have to cut someone. Who feels expendable?
Mark: This is tough. Maybe Eberle. Not because he’s bad, but because the team needs youth. Mackie Samoskevich is hungry. He wants to prove himself. If he can show he can score, he might take a spot.
Jessica: Samoskevich! Yes! The kid has heart. But can he handle the pressure of the NHL schedule? That’s the question. Let’s go to @WildCardWatcher. They’re asking about our 95-100 point projection. Is that realistic given the center depth issues?
Mark: It is. Even with the chaos, the ceiling is high. If Daccord plays well, and McCann scores, you’re winning games. The Pacific Division is competitive, but being first in the preseason projections means people believe in this group. We’re sticking with the wild card bet.
Jessica: Second wild card spot. That’s what we said on the ninth. And honestly, with the schedule starting against Calgary, it’s a good test. Can they handle the Flames’ pressure?
Mark: Calgary is tough. They’re always physical. If Seattle’s defense doesn’t clear the crease, they’ll struggle. But if they execute the forecheck, they can win. It’s all about discipline. No penalties. Win the draws.
Jessica: Discipline is key. Okay, let’s pause here. We have one more segment coming up, and it’s going to be fun. A hypothetical scenario and a lightning round. Don’t go anywhere.
Jessica: Let’s get into the fun stuff. This question from @HockeyNerd99: If you had to trade one player right now to upgrade the team, who goes? Who stays?
Mark: Whoa, hold on. Trade someone? Right now? With the roster this deep? I’d say maybe send out Logan Morrison. He’s a center, and we have ten others. He’s expendable. But trading a core piece? That’s hard. Maybe Chad Stephenson if we find a perfect offer.
Jessica: Stephenson? Really? He’s been great. But if it brings a top-six winger, maybe. Let’s switch gears. Lightning round. Name one player who will surprise everyone this season.
Mark: Shane Wright. Thirty goals. We said it. He’s going to pop. The skills are there. He just needs the opportunity.
Jessica: Thirty goals! I love it. My pick? Ryker Evans. He’ll steal a spot and become a fan favorite with his speed.
Mark: Evans is a sneaky good pick. Fast, skilled. He could be a breakout star. Okay, last question. Who is the most underrated player on this roster?
Jessica: Adam Larsson. He doesn’t score, but he shuts down opponents. Without him, the defense collapses. He’s the unsung hero.
Mark: Exactly. Larsson is vital. He’s the backbone. You notice him when he’s not there. Great pick, Jess.
Jessica: There you have it. From center battles to goalie gambles, we’ve covered it all. The Kraken are poised for a big season. We’re still betting on that wild card spot and Daccord on net.
Mark: And don’t forget, opening night is October 2nd against Calgary. Get ready. This is going to be electric.
Jessica: Before we go, a quick note. We keep this show free, daily, and ad-free because of you. Your support protects that promise. Please consider chipping in via the link in the episode description. It helps us keep bringing you the best hockey talk.
Mark: Thank you for listening. Subscribe, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts. Share this with a friend who loves the Kraken.
Jessica: Go Kraken Go! See you tomorrow.