Introduction
The NHL’s Pacific Division has witnessed some of the most intense rivalries in recent years, and one that has rapidly gained prominence is between the Seattle Kraken and the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite being relatively new franchises, both teams have quickly established themselves as formidable contenders, making their matchups a must-watch for hockey enthusiasts.
Team Overview
Seattle Kraken
Founded in 2021, the Seattle Kraken are the NHL’s 32nd team. In just a short span, they’ve built a competitive roster and a passionate fan base. Under the leadership of head coach Lane Lambert, the Kraken have shown significant growth and promise. Key players like Jared McCann, Matty Beniers, and Vince Dunn have been instrumental in the team’s success.
Vegas Golden Knights
Established in 2017, the Vegas Golden Knights made an immediate impact by reaching the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season. With a strong roster featuring stars like Jack Eichel, Mark Stone, and Adin Hill, the Golden Knights have consistently been a top contender in the league. Their aggressive playing style and strategic gameplay have made them a formidable opponent for any team.
Head-to-Head Record
As of the 2025-26 NHL season, the Seattle Kraken and Vegas Golden Knights have faced each other 15 times. The Golden Knights lead the series with a 12-3 record against the Kraken. However, the most recent matchup on October 11, 2025, saw the Kraken edge out the Golden Knights with a 2-1 overtime victory, highlighting the competitive nature of this budding rivalry.
Recent Matchup: October 11, 2025
In a thrilling game at Climate Pledge Arena, the Seattle Kraken secured a 2-1 overtime victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Jared McCann scored the game-winning goal with just 3.8 seconds remaining in overtime, marking his 400th career point. Matty Beniers opened the scoring for the Kraken with a power-play goal in the second period. For the Golden Knights, Pavel Dorofeyev netted the equalizer in the third period. Goaltender Joey Daccord made 26 saves for the Kraken, while Adin Hill stopped 20 of 22 shots for Vegas.
Key Players to Watch
Seattle Kraken
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Jared McCann: A consistent scorer and leader on the ice, McCann’s recent milestone underscores his importance to the team.
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Matty Beniers: The young center has quickly become a cornerstone for the Kraken, showcasing exceptional playmaking abilities.
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Joey Daccord: Providing stability in goal, Daccord’s performances have been crucial to the Kraken’s success.
Vegas Golden Knights
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Jack Eichel: A dynamic forward and the highest-paid player in franchise history, Eichel’s offensive prowess is a significant threat.
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Pavel Dorofeyev: Leading the team in goals, Dorofeyev’s scoring ability makes him a key player for the Golden Knights.
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Adin Hill: As the team’s primary goaltender, Hill’s performances in net are vital for Vegas’ success.
Fan Experience and Rivalry Atmosphere
Both the Kraken and Golden Knights boast passionate fan bases that contribute to the electric atmosphere during their matchups. Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena and Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena are known for their enthusiastic crowds, making games between these two teams a spectacle both on and off the ice. The growing rivalry has intensified fan engagement, with supporters eagerly anticipating each encounter.
Looking Ahead
As both teams continue to develop and strengthen their rosters, the rivalry between the Seattle Kraken and Vegas Golden Knights is poised to become one of the most exciting in the NHL. With young talents emerging and seasoned veterans leading the charge, fans can expect more thrilling matchups in the seasons to come.
Conclusion
The Seattle Kraken vs. Vegas Golden Knights rivalry is a testament to the dynamic nature of the NHL. From intense on-ice battles to passionate fan support, these matchups encapsulate the essence of hockey. As both teams continue to grow and evolve, this rivalry promises to deliver memorable moments for years to come.
