Arizona Coyotes vs Seattle Kraken Picks and Predictions April 8th 2025

Utah Hockey Club Pushes Forward with Momentum in Crucial Matchup Against Seattle Kraken

As the NHL regular season winds down, the Utah Hockey Club is clinging to playoff hopes while building momentum for the future. Heading into Tuesday’s matchup against the Seattle Kraken, Utah’s recent performances highlight a team growing in confidence and capability—even as their postseason window narrows.

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Utah’s Late Surge Reflects Promise and Progress

With a record of 35-30-12 (82 points), Utah remains technically in the NHL playoff race. However, a regulation loss to Seattle would officially end their bid. Despite this, Utah is trending upward, having won three of their last four games, including a convincing 4-1 victory over the league-leading Winnipeg Jets.

“We’re still learning how hard it is to win,” said star forward Clayton Keller, who tallied a goal and an assist in the Jets game. Keller’s efforts not only helped secure the win but also marked a personal milestone—his 500th career NHL point.

“I honestly had no idea going into the game,” Keller admitted. “I’m just thankful for everyone who’s helped me get here. I feel like I’m just getting started.”

A Confident Team, Learning Fast

Utah’s recent success isn’t just about wins—it’s about how they’re winning. Against the Jets, they took a three-goal lead by the end of the second period, capitalizing with two power-play goals. Head coach Andre Tourigny praised the team’s mindset.

“We’re not scared—we’re embracing the challenge,” Tourigny said. “We played a hell of a game against one of the best teams in the league.”

This fearless attitude and disciplined play are signs of a team maturing under pressure, positioning themselves as a future force in the Western Conference.

Seattle Kraken Emphasize Standards in Strong Road Stretch

Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken, already eliminated from playoff contention with a 34-38-6 (74 points) record, arrive in Salt Lake City following a resilient 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Kings.

Seattle scored twice in just 54 seconds late in the first period and held on defensively for the win, marking their third consecutive victory on their current road trip.

“We’re trying to set a standard moving forward,” said Chandler Stephenson. “You want to win games like that—especially against good teams.”

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Defensive Commitment Defines Kraken’s Recent Success

Seattle’s recent surge is fueled by defense. The Kraken have allowed only two goals in their last three games, showing a shift in focus and effort.

“You see guys blocking shots, sacrificing—it’s a big part of how we want to play,” noted head coach Dan Bylsma. “We’re faster, more aggressive, and it’s paying off.”

Along with better team play, individual players are hitting their stride. Matty Beniers notched his 19th goal of the season, while defenseman Brandon Montour reached a personal best with 17 goals—a testament to Seattle’s evolving structure.

Tuesday’s Clash Is More Than Just Another Game

Both teams may be out—or nearly out—of the playoff picture, but their meeting in Salt Lake City carries real meaning. For Utah, it’s one last chance to stay alive in the NHL playoff race. For Seattle, it’s a step toward reclaiming a winning identity heading into next season.

“We’ve played and won different types of games on this trip,” Bylsma said. “Now we’ve got to bring that to Salt Lake.”

Whether it’s Utah’s fight to extend their season or Seattle’s pursuit of consistency, Tuesday’s matchup is about more than standings—it’s about setting the tone for what comes next.