Tue Dec 30 02:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Kraken Look to Dominate Canucks, Build Home Momentum

Seattle, WA – The Seattle Kraken face off against the Vancouver Canucks tonight at Climate Pledge Arena, aiming to extend their recent dominance in this Pacific Northwest rivalry. Despite it being their first meeting of the season, the Kraken have held the upper hand, boasting a 7-1-2 record against Vancouver since October 2022, a stark contrast to the Canucks’ previous control of the series.

The Canucks, currently struggling with the worst record in the NHL and fresh off trading defenseman Quinn Hughes, present an opportunity for the Kraken to capitalize on home ice. Coach Lane Lambert is emphasizing a strong forecheck, particularly highlighting Eeli Tolvanen’s recent performance. Tolvanen’s relentless pursuit of the puck and heads-up playmaking led to a key goal in Sunday’s game against Philadelphia, a performance Lambert wants to see replicated across the team against Vancouver.

“He got in on the forecheck. He separated the puck from the man and made a heads-up play,” Lambert said of Tolvanen’s effort. “But he’s moving his feet and he’s heavy on the forecheck.”

The Kraken aim to avoid fatigue on the second night of a back-to-back.

While the Canucks are reeling from the Hughes trade, they did experience a brief resurgence, stringing together a four-game win streak. New acquisition, defenseman Zeev Buium, has shown promise, contributing offensively in his Vancouver debut. However, the Canucks remain defensively vulnerable, allowing 3.46 goals per game (second worst in the NHL) and struggling on the penalty kill.

Despite the Canucks’ struggles, Lambert expects a challenge. “They’re sitting here waiting for us,” Lambert said. “It’ll be a back-to-back for us here at home and we’re looking forward to the challenge.”

Projected lineup changes include Joey Daccord taking over in goal and potential adjustments to the forward lines, though the specific changes remain under wraps until game time.

The Kraken will look to capitalize on Vancouver’s weaknesses and continue their strong play against their divisional rivals as they head into the New Year.

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