SEATTLE — In a recent game, Matt Duchene and Wyatt Johnston each scored in the first period, just 45 seconds apart, propelling the Dallas Stars to a 3-1 win against the Seattle Kraken on Monday night. Goaltender Casey DeSmith played a crucial role, stopping 35 shots from the Kraken.
Mikael Granlund sealed the victory for Dallas by scoring an empty-net goal in the final minutes of the game, with only 1:07 left on the clock.
For Seattle, Kaapo Kakko managed to score the team`s lone goal early in the first period. This goal marked Kakko`s 41st point of the season, setting a new personal best. Kraken goalie Philipp Grubauer, who was back in net for the first time since March 19, made 28 saves.
The Stars are currently enjoying a six-game winning streak. DeSmith has been particularly strong, winning eight of his last nine starts in goal.
Key Points from the Game
Stars: The Dallas Stars continued their dominance over the Seattle Kraken, winning both games of their back-to-back series in Seattle. Their overall record against the Kraken improved to an impressive 10 wins, 1 loss, and 1 overtime loss.
Kraken: Despite a strong offensive showing with six goals in their previous game against the Oilers, the Seattle Kraken struggled to find the net against the defensively solid Stars, a team expected to contend in the playoffs.
Turning Point of the Game
Shortly after Kakko opened the scoring for Seattle, Matt Duchene quickly responded for Dallas, redirecting a shot from Mason Marchment past Grubauer. Moments later, Wyatt Johnston extended Dallas`s lead, scoring his fifth goal in as many games and his fourth game-winning goal of the season, a career-high.
Stat to Note
The Dallas Stars` penalty defense was flawless, successfully killing off all three penalties they faced in this game. This performance followed a similar outing on Saturday against the Kraken where they were perfect on four penalty kills. Throughout the season series, Seattle was unable to score a single power-play goal against Dallas.
Looking Ahead
Next, the Dallas Stars will play at home against Nashville on Thursday. The Seattle Kraken will embark on a five-game road trip, starting Wednesday in Vancouver.
Tristan Blackwood