One: Adding Building Blocks
Early in training camp, players are just getting to know each other, how each plays, and the beginnings of the Kraken’s team identity. In the first two preseason games, head coach Dave Hakstol just wanted to see “basic structure.” But, as time goes on together, there’s an increased emphasis on systems for the upcoming season. What to watch for against the Canucks?
In Wednesday’s practice, both skating groups focused on playing low in the defensive zone, transitional play and defending within the neutral zone. The last of which is something Hakstol is focusing on improving within his group. He doesn’t want his players overthinking, looking for the perfect play – just reading and reacting.
“Today we were able to get a good chunk (of work) in three different areas,” Hakstol said. “(In practice) we have our baseline areas and the foundation of the game that you want to be part of each and every drill that you’re doing. We were able to touch on three different areas today and that’s a pretty good workday. “
Two: Chemistry Class
Training camp isn’t just about learning how to play, it’s about learning which combinations of players most effectively bring those systems to life. Wednesday’s skating groups looked a little different with six players (Jagger Firkus, David Goyette, Kyle Jackson, Jacob Melanson, Ty Nelson, Tucker Robertson) re-assigned to their Junior clubs. And while some lines and pairs persisted from what we’ve seen in the first two preseason games (Jaden Schwartz, Shane Wrightand Jordan Eberle were just one of the trios that looked the same), some other combinations came together.
Expect some possible new lines and pairs as players and coaches find the best matches among the players.
“There’s not a lot of time so we’re trying to shift into some of these looks over the next three days and give them a game or two,” Hakstol said. “We might not be able to give him more than that but want to see things for at least a practice or two plus a game.”
A fun note: chemistry is developing off the ice, too. Copenhagen native Alex True revealed he and former WHL opponent, Oliver Bjorkstrand who hails from Denmark as well, have been talking about trying out some local Danish bakeries!
Three: Defensive Effort
It’s not gone unnoticed that four Kraken goaltenders have played in two pre-season games and none of them have yet to let in a goal. When the goaltenders in Wednesday’s second group kept all the pucks out of the net on a shooting drill, the celebrations were loud and enthusiastic.
The workload – and challenge level – will continue to increase, of course. But, Hakstol has liked what he’s seen from the defense in front of the netminders as well saying it goes hand in hand in terms of the results the team is seeing on the scoresheet. We’ll see if this crew can keep up its stingy behavior in Vancouver.
“It’s making the most of practice,” Oleksiak said. “I think there’s not that many differences (in how we want to play) compared to last year, but obviously (we have) some new faces. So, I think it’s a process. We’re making the most of the chances we have on the ice and I think it’s coming together nicely so far.”
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