The Seattle Kraken's defensive unit suffered a severe setback during their Monday night clash against the Anaheim Ducks. Key defenseman Vince Dunn was forced to leave the game following a heavy open-ice hit and could not return, compounding an existing injury crisis on the blue line.
How the Injury Unfolded
The incident occurred early in the third period when Anaheim Ducks forward Ross Johnston delivered a hit near the Anaheim blue line. Dunn was visibly shaken by the collision. Although he managed to skate off the ice without assistance, his frustration was evident as he headed to the locker room. The team's medical staff promptly ruled him out for the remainder of the contest.
This blow comes on the same day the Kraken announced another massive loss. Defenseman Brandon Montour is set to miss approximately four weeks after undergoing hand surgery. The timing is particularly brutal for the franchise as it navigates a critical phase of the season.
Mounting Crisis for Seattle's Defence
The absence of both Dunn and Montour creates a monumental challenge for head coach Dan Bylsma. Dunn and Montour lead the Kraken in average ice time per game, making them the two most vital pillars of the team's defence. Losing them simultaneously strips Seattle of its top-minute defenders, testing the squad's depth to its limits.
Despite these setbacks, the Kraken showed resilience by securing a 3-1 victory over the Ducks. This win marks their second in a row, though it is only their third triumph in a struggling December. The team currently finds itself near the bottom of the highly competitive Western Conference standings.
Playoff Hopes Hang in the Balance
Every point is now precious for Seattle as they fight for a playoff berth. The loss of two cornerstone defensemen for any extended period could severely dent their already slim wildcard chances. The team's medical staff is evaluating Dunn to determine the severity of his injury, and no formal timeline for his return has been established.
While Johnston's hit was deemed clean with no penalty called, its impact was significant enough to force Dunn out of the game. For now, the Kraken can take solace in grabbing two crucial points. However, their ability to sustain a playoff push in the second half of the season will heavily depend on how quickly their defensive stars can recover and how effectively the supporting cast can step up.
