Jani Nyman Shines in Debut as Kraken Prepare for Utah
The Seattle Kraken saw an exciting debut from Jani Nyman, who delivered a crucial goal in his first NHL game, helping Seattle rally for a 5-4 overtime victory against the Montreal Canadiens. Now, the Kraken prepare for a critical showdown against the Utah Hockey Club on Friday night as both teams fight for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
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Jani nyman makes instant impact in nhl debut
Seattle coach Dan Bylsma promised that Jani Nyman would play a significant role in his debut, and the 20-year-old Finnish forward proved why he was a top prospect.
- Nyman scored his first NHL goal at 10:53 of the third period on the power play, sparking Seattle’s comeback.
- He logged nearly 14 minutes of ice time, recorded three shots on goal, and made three hits in his first game.
- He also hit the crossbar on a near goal earlier in the game.
“I don’t even know what to say,” said Nyman, whose parents traveled from Finland to witness his debut. “It’s a very special night.”
Bylsma was highly impressed with his performance:
“Jani showed what kind of player he is. His shot is a real weapon, but he’s also developed an all-around game this season.”
Nyman was leading AHL rookies with 26 goals for Coachella Valley before his call-up, and his debut showed that he is more than ready for the NHL stage.

Seattle completes historic comeback with record-breaking ot goal
Seattle’s thrilling comeback was sealed in record-breaking fashion when Brandon Montour scored just FOUR SECONDS into overtime, setting a NEW NHL RECORD for the fastest goal to start an OT period.
“You have to tip your cap if someone can beat that one,” Montour said after the game.
The Kraken rallied from a 4-2 deficit and scored two power-play goals in the final 10 minutes of regulation before Montour’s OT heroics. The win keeps Seattle within striking distance of a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Utah hockey club remains hot after big win over anaheim
The Utah Hockey Club also enters Friday’s game with momentum after a 3-2 win over the Anaheim Ducks on Wednesday night.
- Dylan Guenther led the way with a goal and an assist, scoring the game-winning goal on the power play.
- Jack McBain and Alexander Kerfoot also found the back of the net.
- Goaltender Karel Vejmelka made 19 saves to secure the victory.
Utah coach Andre Tourigny was particularly pleased with his team’s defensive performance in the third period:
“When we were protecting the lead, the sacrifice and discipline we showed was great to see.”
With the victory, Utah has now earned points in four straight games (2-0-2), moving them within two points of Calgary and Vancouver for the final Western Conference wild-card playoff spot.

Kraken vs. Utah: must-watch matchup with playoff implications
Both teams are desperate for points as the playoff race heats up, making Friday’s showdown a must-watch battle.
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KEY STORYLINES TO WATCH
- Can Jani Nyman continue his red-hot start in his second NHL game?
- Will Utah extend its point streak and keep pace in the playoff race?
- Can Seattle capitalize on the power play against Utah’s struggling penalty kill?
- Goaltending battle: Joey Daccord (Seattle) vs. Karel Vejmelka (Utah).
With both teams hungry for a win, expect an intense, hard-fought battle in Seattle on Friday night.