The Toronto Maple Leafs visit the Seattle Kraken at Climate Pledge Arena on Wednesday night at 10 p.m. ET, closing out the NHL’s four-game slate, according to the NHL schedule listings from DAZN and Sync2Cal.
Toronto arrives at 7-5-2 after a mixed start, while Seattle sits at 7-4-1 and has made Climate Pledge Arena a tough place to visit. Anthony Stolarz is the likely starter for Toronto, with Philipp Grubauer expected for Seattle, according to starting-goalie reports.
Leafs looking for consistency
Toronto’s season has been a story of flashes rather than sustained dominance. The Maple Leafs have the talent to beat anyone, but they have also dropped points in games they should have won. A road win in Seattle — against a solid Kraken team — would be a useful statement.
Seattle, meanwhile, has built its record on structure and goaltending. Grubauer’s .907 save percentage in seven games reflects a goalie giving his team a chance every night, and the Kraken’s home crowd adds another layer of difficulty for visitors.
The late-night factor
The 10 p.m. ET start means a 7 p.m. local puck drop in Seattle, but for Toronto’s players the body clock still reads late. Road teams in late games often start slowly, and Seattle will look to jump on the Leafs early with an aggressive forecheck.
If Toronto survives the first period, its skill should take over. If Seattle scores first and gets the crowd involved, the Leafs could be in for a frustrating night on the West Coast.
Playoff-picture points
Both teams expect to be in the playoff race in April, and October points count just as much as March ones. Seattle’s home form makes it a favourite in a tight game, but Toronto’s star power means the Kraken can never relax. Expect a close, entertaining finish to Wednesday’s NHL action.
