McCann Move To Pivot Could Be Kraken Audition For 2024-25

Seattle Kraken coach Dave Hakstol gave status updates on two key players in advance of his team's game Thursday at T-Mobile Arena against the Vegas Golden Knights.

Jared McCann

Jared McCann (pictured above), who's been shifted to center with the departure of Alex Wennberg at the trade deadline, in the coach's estimation had a rare off night in his new role Monday against the Sabres.

"There can be some ebs and flows. The majority of nights he's done a really good job in his reads defensively."

McCann, who leads the Kraken with 27 goals, hasn't lit the lamp since March 5 in Winnipeg. Since his three point game that night against the Jets, McCann has been limited to one assist in his last five games.

Could the added responsibilities of switching to pivot be part of the reason?

"I believe he has all the abilities to do it. His willingness has been outstanding. We're monitoring what type of offense he's able to provide as a centerman, what areas of his game are even empowered by being up the middle and what areas are challenged."

The move to center also could be a late-season audition to see if McCann is the permanent Wennberg replacement at center for next year.

Andre Burakovsky

Three separate injuries this season have caused Andre Burakovsky to miss games; he's played just 34, after a groin injury limited him to 49 appearances last year.

Burakovsky's offense appears to be coming around; two of his four goals in 2023-24 have come in the last four games, power play strikes vs. Vegas and Nashville.

However, his weak drop pass led to the game-winning breakaway goal by Connor McMichael of the Capitals in a 2-1 loss on March 14.

Without mentioning that play specifically, Hakstol said Burakovsky's offense is only half the equation.

"We also need to see how he takes care of his teammates out there with the puck, what position he's putting other guys in. The two of those coming together is what makes Burky a good player. There's still a step or two to go there."