##### Two: Short and Long-Term Consistency
The Kraken may not have won the last game against Montreal, but they did outplay them. Seattle came close to doubling up the Habs in terms of shot quality (2.90 to 1.34 expected goals, all situations) and shot volume (65 to 37 shot attempts); and controlled the majority of play not just in the offensive zone (8:06 possession time for Seattle to 4:58 for Montreal) but also in the dangerous areas (17 slot shots for Seattle to six for Montreal). The result wasn't there in December, but more often than not, that kind of effort will yield a winning result. In fact, it's the consistency of play that McCann pointed to as a key ingredient in the team's current four-game win streak: "we're more consistent." Jordan Eberle added that he believes the team is "more comfortable in their systems" and that's led to better performances. Being true to controlling play like the team did in the last meeting against the Habs and to how the team is doing right now will be key.
##### Three: Don't Worry About the Matchups
Many have wondered what has gone into the Kraken's stellar road record this year (12-4-2). 38 games into the season, they've already amassed more wins away from Climate Pledge Arena than they did through the entirety of the 2021-22 campaign (11). Of course, the talent level of the team has increased with a healthy roster and off-season additions like Andre Burakovsky (11-21-32), Oliver Bjorkstrand (6-12-18), and Justin Schultz (4-17-21). But, one of the pitfalls teams usually face on the road is the lack of control over matchups with the home team getting the final opportunity to deploy the players they want. With so much quality play (and scoring!) coming from up and down the lineup, the Kraken's depth has allowed them to overcome one of the obstacles that away games usually present. No one line puts Seattle at a disadvantage on the ice. "We've been at our best when we've been able to roll four lines and not have a huge concern about each match up," Dave Hakstol said. "We're asking everybody to play the right way defensively…we (have been) good enough at the right times to get it done.
