The Utah Mammoth enter Thursday night’s clash with the Seattle Kraken wielding the NHL’s most efficient power play, while Seattle hopes its spread‑out scoring will keep the game within reach.
Key points
- Utah’s power play leads the NHL at 36.1 % conversion, making penalty discipline crucial for Seattle.
- Seattle’s balanced scoring, with contributions from most of its roster, could offset Utah’s offensive firepower.
- Defensive execution—limiting turnovers and protecting the crease—will likely determine which team secures the win.
- Projected lineups suggest a front‑line clash that could shape the flow of the game.
The NHL’s Utah Mammoth (7‑3‑0) travel to Seattle for a 7:00 p.m. showdown against the Kraken (6‑3‑1) on Oct. 22, 2026, according to the league’s official preview. Both clubs have shown an ability to find the back of the net early in the season, setting the stage for a high‑scoring encounter.
Utah’s special teams are the first issue Seattle must address. The Mammoth convert 36.1 % of their power‑play chances – the highest rate in the league – and have already tallied 13 power‑play goals. By contrast, Seattle’s penalty kill sits 25th, suggesting that any lapse in discipline could hand Utah a decisive edge.
Utah’s power play advantage
Seattle’s offense, however, is spreading the load. The Kraken average 3.78 goals per game and have seen 16 of their 22 skaters register at least one goal, with 12 scoring multiple times. This depth could force Utah’s defense to spread thin, especially if Seattle maintains an aggressive forecheck and creates traffic in front of the net.
Defensively, the numbers are close. Utah allows 3.10 goals per game, while Seattle has given up 3.40. The Kraken will need to protect the puck, limit turnovers and stay organized around the crease. Goaltender Griffin Grubauer’s rebound control and timely saves could be pivotal if Utah’s forecheck gains momentum.
Seattle’s offensive depth
The preview lists projected lineups (subject to change): McCann‑Beniers‑Eberle; McMann‑Stephenson‑Samoskevich; Kakko‑Catton‑Wright; Meyers‑Gaudreau‑Winterton; Dunn‑Larsson‑Evans; Montour‑Ottavainen‑Mahura. These match‑ups hint at where the battle for puck possession and scoring chances may unfold.
Reader questions
When is the Mammoth vs. Kraken game scheduled?
The matchup is set for Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, with a 7:00 p.m. start time.
What makes Utah’s power play a concern for Seattle?
Utah converts 36.1 % of its power‑play opportunities, the highest in the league, and has already scored 13 power‑play goals this season.
How has Seattle’s offense performed so far?
Seattle averages 3.78 goals per game, with 16 of its 22 skaters having scored at least once and 12 scoring multiple times.
Source: nhl.com
