In a stunning upset, the Seattle Kraken defeated the defending Stanley Cup champions, the Colorado Avalanche, in a nail-biting 2-1 Game 7 victory, securing their first ever playoff series win (USA Today). The Kraken’s success marks the end of the Avalanche’s title defense and guarantees a new champion for the 2023 Stanley Cup.
The Seattle Kraken, which is only in its second year of existence, managed to knock out the Avalanche in the opening round series on Sunday night (Grand Forks Herald). The victory was predominantly credited to star player Oliver Bjorkstrand, who scored both goals in the crucial game, and goalkeeper Philipp Grubauer who made 33 magnificent saves throughout the match (The Rink Live).
Prior to the Kraken’s Game 7 win, the Colorado Avalanche had triumphed in a hard-fought Game 6 against the Kraken, thanks to Artturi Lehkonen’s two goals, including an empty-net goal in the closing seconds (CBS News). However, the Kraken demonstrated incredible tenacity and determination to secure the win in the deciding Game 7, which was hosted by the Avalanche as the higher playoff seed (The Seattle Times).
The Seattle Kraken’s memorable playoff series win not only highlights the rapid growth and development of the ice hockey team but has also made a significant impact on the 2023 Stanley Cup landscape, ensuring a new champion will be crowned at the end of the season. Fans eagerly await the Kraken’s next moves on the ice, as this young team continues to make history in the professional hockey world.
