Kraken prospect Berkly Catton breaks through with first NHL goals

In a thrilling 7-4 victory over the Boston Bruins on Tuesday night, Seattle Kraken forward Berkly Catton finally etched his name into the NHL scoresheet. The 19-year-old, selected eighth overall in the 2024 NHL draft, netted his first career goals after enduring a 27-game drought to start his professional career. It was a moment of pure relief and joy in Seattle, capping a game filled with offense from both sides.

Catton’s breakthrough came in emphatic fashion, scoring twice in the contest. His performance lifted a massive weight off his young shoulders and validated the hard work he’s put in since joining the Kraken. As the team pushes forward in the season, this milestone signals potential for more production from the promising rookie.

The long wait for that first goal

Berkly Catton had shown flashes of brilliance early in his NHL tenure. He earned his first point with an assist in his debut on October 20 against an opponent yet to be detailed in early reports. Over the next four games, he added two more helpers, building optimism around the Spokane Chiefs star.

Yet the goals wouldn’t come. Twenty-seven games passed without a tally, a drought that tested even the most patient prospects. Catton admitted the wait lingered in his mind, though he insisted it didn’t derail his focus. “Obviously I thought about it all the time, but I wouldn’t say it was really impacting me too much,” he said post-game.

The pressure mounted subtly. As a first-round pick, expectations were high for the skilled winger known for his WHL dominance. Teammates and coaches watched closely, knowing the breakthrough was inevitable.

Finally, on January 6, 2026, against the Bruins at Climate Pledge Arena, it happened. The second period unfolded with Seattle pressing, setting the stage for history.

Details of Catton’s first NHL goal

The moment arrived at 2:48 of the second period during a three-on-two rush. Jared McCann, an 11-year veteran, fed Catton a perfect pass from a sharp angle. The rookie unleashed a one-timer that squeezed through Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman’s pads.

Catton initially thought it rang the post. “I didn’t even know it went in, to be honest,” he recounted with a laugh. The goal horn blared, and relief washed over him as he raised his arms skyward.

McCann mobbed him along the sideboards, shouting “Finally!” The embrace symbolized the team’s support during the dry spell. McCann praised Catton’s work ethic: “He’s been working really hard, and we were due.”

This odd-man rush goal shifted momentum in Seattle’s favor, contributing to their eventual rout.

The play highlighted Catton’s shot accuracy under pressure, a trait scouts raved about pre-draft.

Quick follow-up with the second tally

Less than 28 minutes of game time later, Catton struck again. At 14:00 of the third period, Freddy Gaudreau set him up for a slick backhand that sailed over Swayman’s glove.

This goal showcased his finesse and hockey IQ. No longer tentative, Catton finished with poise, extending the Kraken’s lead.

Coach Lane Lambert had predicted this streak. “I’ve said a few times prior to now that once he scores, I think he’ll score a few,” Lambert noted approvingly.

The brace turned a solid performance into a statement, boosting Catton’s confidence.

• First goal: One-timer through pads on 3-on-2 rush, assisted by Jared McCann.
• Second goal: Backhand top-shelf, assisted by Freddy Gaudreau.
• Game impact: Helped secure 7-4 win over Boston.
• Career context: Ended 28-game goalless streak.

Catton’s path to the NHL

Drafted eighth overall in 2024, Catton transitioned from WHL stardom with the Spokane Chiefs. His junior stats promised offensive upside, drawing comparisons to dynamic scorers.

Debuting in late October 2025, he adapted quickly to pro speed. Early assists showed playmaking chops, but finishing evaded him amid stiff competition.

The Kraken’s patient development approach paid off. At 19, he’s among the league’s youngest regulars.

For more on his draft profile, check his ESPN player page.

Relief dominated post-game vibes. “Lot of weight off the shoulders for sure,” Catton beamed. “I’ve dreamed of that for a long time.”

What this means for Catton and the Kraken

Catton’s double not only personalizes his ledger but injects scoring depth into Seattle’s lineup. As the season progresses toward the playoffs, his emergence could prove pivotal.

Lambert’s foresight rings true—expect more goals as confidence builds. The Bruins game, viewable in highlights on ESPN’s recap, underscores his fit.

Fans now buzz with excitement over the rookie’s potential. Similar breakthroughs have launched careers, from recent standouts to historical parallels like young snipers breaking out mid-season.

Looking ahead, Catton eyes consistent production. For the Kraken, it’s a reminder that top picks deliver when the time is right, fortifying their roster for a competitive push.