McMann's Impact: Kraken's Playoff Push

Bobby McManns Impact: Seattle Kraken Surge After Trade

The Seattle Kraken have seen a significant boost since trading for forward Bobby McMann from the Toronto Maple Leafs. McMann has scored three goals and two assists in just two games, contributing to two consecutive wins after a four-game losing streak. General manager Jason Botterill praises McMann for delivering as expected.

The Kraken currently hold the second wild card spot in the Western Conference, tied with the Los Angeles Kings and one point ahead of the San Jose Sharks. They face the Tampa Bay Lightning at home on Tuesday and embark on a challenging six-game road trip against teams like Nashville, Columbus, Florida, Tampa again, Buffalo, and Edmonton.

Despite an up-and-down season, including a one-win-in-ten stretch and an eight-win-in-ten run, the teams leaders commend their resilience. The Kraken, who joined the league in the 2021-2022 season, made the playoffs the following year but missed the last two. They fired coach Dan Bylsma in April, promoted Botterill, and hired Lane Lambert in May.

Instead of selling at the deadline, the Kraken signed captain Jordan Eberle to a two-year $11 million deal and added McMann for draft picks, despite a brief visa delay and injuries like Jaden Schwartzs skate to the face. McManns size, speed, and net-front play align with their needs, particularly on the top line with Eberle and Matty Beniers.

Without a superstar scorer—Eberle leads with 48 points—the Kraken rank low in goals per game. However, they hope their depth and matchups down the lineup can propel them into the playoffs, similar to their deep run two seasons ago. Botterill remains optimistic about building offense around young talent.

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