The Seattle Kraken delivered an unforgettable performance, led by Joey Daccord’s remarkable shutout, to defeat the Vegas Golden Knights 3-0 in the 2024 Discover NHL Winter Classic at T-Mobile Park. This victory marks the first shutout in the 15-game history of the Winter Classic and the fifth in NHL outdoor games overall. Daccord’s stellar 35-save display ensured a memorable win in front of a passionate crowd of 47,313.
Eeli Tolvanen, Will Borgen, and Yanni Gourde were the goal scorers for the Kraken, contributing to a victory that reflects Seattle’s burgeoning hockey culture. The win extends the Kraken’s point streak to nine games, showcasing their rise as a competitive force in the league. Daccord’s performance was particularly significant, as he has stepped up admirably since Philipp Grubauer’s injury.
For the Golden Knights, goaltender Logan Thompson made 24 saves, but the team struggled to find its rhythm, suffering their fifth loss in six games. Despite the festive atmosphere and a historic milestone for Marc-Andre Fleury, playing in his 1,000th career game, the Golden Knights couldn’t overcome the Kraken’s solid gameplay.
Tolvanen opened the scoring early in the first period, followed by Borgen’s goal in the second. Gourde sealed the win early in the third period with a determined effort. Daccord’s outstanding saves, including a late-game glove save on Jack Eichel, were pivotal in maintaining the shutout.
The Winter Classic was not only a showcase of the Kraken’s growing stature but also a celebration of hockey’s expanding footprint in Seattle. This win, under the open sky of T-Mobile Park, marks a significant chapter in the Kraken’s history and the NHL’s tradition of outdoor games.
