We’ve reached the midway point in the Stars vs Kraken series. The two teams split the two games in Dallas and a crucial Game 3 was headed in Seattle. As it currently stands now, the Kraken lead the series 2-1. Here are notable trends playing throughout the series that have been key so far.
Stars vs Kraken Series Storylines
This series has gone on as expected. Both goaltenders for the most part have played well for their respective clubs. It has been a fast paced series with physical punch to it. There is also a feel good story with the return of one particular player. Overall, this has been a great series to start with plenty of excitement. Here are some key storylines in the Stars vs Kraken series.
Jason Robertson Production
There is no denying the impact that Jason Robertson brings. In fact, he was the Stars best player during the regular season and has been a force these playoffs. However, in this Stars vs Kraken series, he has been limited. Robertson has lit up the playoff scoring with seven points total. But there is one issue with that production. Six of his seven points have come on the power play. With how lethal of a player he can be, he simply is not factoring in when the game is played at 5v5. Robertson is getting his looks and his chances.
At 5v5, Robertson has an xGF of 6.07 and the Stars are out attempting the Kraken 143-109 In addition, from an individual standpoint, his ixG is 1.46 (6th among forwards). It is not for a lack of effort on his behalf. He has been on the ice for four goals, but has not scored a single one at 5v5. What makes this a key factor going forward, is Robertson has zero points in this series.
All Stats Come From Natural Stat Trick
The Series Of Captain America
Seattle: 4
Joe Pavelski: 4INCREDIBLE.@budlight | #BudLightCelly | #TexasHockey pic.twitter.com/ND7Me7DCJC
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) May 3, 2023
Welcome back to the playoffs, Joe Pavelski. After being knocked out of the first round with a concussion, he made his impacts felt immediately. Despite a loss in Game 1, Pavelski scored all four goals for the Stars. What is wild is that ties him for first place with the most goals at 5v5.
In addition, he scored another goal in Game Two. Tyler Seguin filled the front-net presence role with him out of the lineup, but nobody does it better than Pavelski. His ability to tip pucks in is unbelievable. Two of his goals have come from the high-danger area where he thrives the most. Pavelski made history for himself. He became the second player in franchise history to score five goals over a two-game span in playoff history.
After a four-goal performance in Game 1, Joe Pavelski continued his scoring ways in Game 2 to give the @DallasStars a 3-1 lead. #StanleyCup#NHLStats: https://t.co/eOPYeSLe7b pic.twitter.com/yBDNk229Kc
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) May 5, 2023
Depth is important in the playoffs and if other players are not picking up the pace, another can fill right in.
The Depth Of The Kraken
If there is one thing that’s carried over into the Stars vs Kraken series, it is the depth of the Kraken. Prior to game one, the club had 15 different goal scorers in these playoffs. It is a true testament to their depth and that they do not just rely on one line or player. It is what makes them fun.
They are not a team littered with superstar talent, but they play well and work hard. So far in this series, that remains the same. In the three games thus far, Seattle has scored 14 goals. In addition, they have 11 different goal scorers lighting the lamp. It does not matter what the matchups are and what line is out there, someone will come through. Jordan Eberle currently leads the team in goals this series.
This includes lighting the lamp seven times in Game 3. Seattle got the crowd roaring by lighting up Jake Oettinger for the second time this series. They went on to chase him after the five goal second period. In addition, this is the second time this series Oettinger has allowed four or more goals. Like after Game 1, he did bounce back and will look to keep that trend going entering Game Four.
Main Photo: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
