Kakko Shines Amidst Injury Setback
In a bittersweet moment for the Seattle Kraken, Kaapo Kakko notched his first goal of the NHL season early Friday morning before suffering an unfortunate injury just moments later.
Kakko’s goal came as he teamed up with Jaden Schwartz, whose shot created a scoring opportunity against the Winnipeg Jets, leveling the game at 1-1. It marked an exciting highlight for Kakko, who had played seven games this season without finding the back of the net until now.
However, the joyful celebration quickly turned to concern when, shortly after his goal, Kakko was injured while attempting to chase the puck. Sources from CBS reported that he sustained a lower-body injury and was unable to continue in the game. The Kraken confirmed the injury but did not provide further details on the circumstances surrounding it.
Social media account Emerald City, dedicated to Kraken coverage, posted footage of the play. The video shows Kakko turning to pursue the puck, only to crash awkwardly onto his right leg. He initially tried to skate it off but soon made his way toward the bench and into the locker room.
“It looked like he hurt himself in that fall,” remarked an observer as Kakko exited in visible pain.
In the midst of these ups and downs, fellow Kraken player Eeli Tolvanen also made headlines by scoring an important equalizer in the third period. He seized a pass and sent the puck into the net, helping the Kraken secure a 3-3 tie before ultimately winning the match 5-3, with Jordan Eberle contributing two late goals.
Lehkonen Shines for the Avalanche
Meanwhile, in another exciting matchup, Artturi Lehkonen scored his eighth goal of the season for the Colorado Avalanche against the Buffalo Sabres, leading his team to a decisive 6-3 victory. Martin Necas also had an impressive outing, contributing a powerful 2+2 performance. Back in net, Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen made 27 saves for the Sabres, but it wasn’t enough to thwart the Avalanche’s onslaught.
As the NHL season continues, fans are left hoping for swift recoveries for players like Kakko, whose promising start has been sidelined by injury.