Kraken's Daccord Shines in Historic Winter Classic Shutout
The Seattle Kraken emerged victorious at the 2024 NHL Winter Classic, with goaltender Joey Daccord leading the charge to a 3-0 win against the Vegas Golden Knights. The Monday game was marked by Daccord's remarkable performance, as he made 35 saves to secure the first-ever shutout in a Winter Classic event. This achievement also marked Daccord's fifth shutout in the NHL's storied outdoor games history.
Daccord's prowess between the pipes was on full display as he consistently denied the Golden Knights' scoring attempts, notably thwarting key players like Jack Eichel and Mark Stone. His stellar performance did not go unnoticed by the fans, who chanted his name in unison at T-Mobile Park following the game, celebrating the goalie's impressive feat.
Offensive Contributions and Team Efforts
While Daccord stole the spotlight with his defensive heroics, the Kraken's offense also played a crucial role in the team's success. Eeli Tolvanen had an outstanding night, contributing a goal and an assist. Tolvanen initiated the scoring early in the first period by skillfully redirecting a shot from Vince Dunn into the net. The momentum continued into the second period when Will Borgen capitalized on Tolvanen's assist to extend the lead.
The final nail in the coffin came early in the third period when Yanni Gourde seized the puck and found the back of the net, solidifying the Kraken's dominance throughout the game. With this victory, the Kraken extended their point streak to nine games, boasting an impressive 7-0-2 record during that span.
Reactions from Players and Coaches
Seattle center Matty Beniers praised Daccord's consistency and extraordinary ability to make difficult saves, stating, "You always talk about goalies and what a really good goalie is and the best way to describe it is he saves the ones he needs to and then he saves one or two more that he shouldn't save. And that's what he's done for us basically every game."
Daccord himself expressed gratitude for the fan support, describing it as "truly the coolest thing in the world." The connection between the team and its supporters was palpable, adding to the significance of the occasion.
Seattle Kraken coach Dave Hakstol reflected on the event's success, noting the combination of the venue, fan support, and positive outcome made the Winter Classic particularly memorable. "To have the opportunity to do this in this ballpark, in front of our home fans, get the result that everybody wanted makes it pretty special and that's the best way to remember this event," Hakstol remarked.
On the opposing bench, the mood was less celebratory. Vegas Golden Knights coach Bruce Cassidy voiced his disappointment over the team's lackluster start and the urgency that seemed to be missing until they were already trailing. "It got to be 2-0 and we didn't have the urgency required early on. By the time we got it, we're chasing the game, which has happened to us lately," Cassidy said. He also expressed dissatisfaction with the team's performance right out of the gate.
Vegas captain Mark Stone suggested that fatigue might be a factor in the team's recent struggles, as the Golden Knights lost their fifth game in six attempts. Looking to rebound from their slump, the Golden Knights are set to face the Florida Panthers on January 4.
Looking Ahead
As both teams look forward to their next challenges, the Kraken will carry the momentum of their historic Winter Classic performance into their upcoming game. The Kraken are set to host the Ottawa Senators, also on January 4, aiming to continue their impressive point streak and further establish themselves as formidable contenders in the league.
The Winter Classic has once again delivered a spectacle filled with unforgettable moments and standout performances. For the Seattle Kraken and their fans, the 2024 edition will be remembered as the day Joey Daccord etched his name into the annals of NHL history with a shutout for the ages.