Seattle Kraken at Winnipeg Jets projected lineup and game preview for October 23, 2025

The Seattle Kraken travel to Canada Life Centre on October 23, 2025, to face the Winnipeg Jets in what promises to be an intriguing matchup between two teams trending in opposite directions. The Jets enter the contest riding high with a 5-1-0 record, having won five consecutive games after dropping their season opener. Meanwhile, the Kraken sit at 3-2-2, struggling through a 1-2-2 stretch in their last five games following a strong three-game winning streak to open the campaign.

This game carries added intrigue beyond the standings, featuring unique family storylines that will captivate hockey fans. Kraken head coach Lane Lambert will face his nephew Brad Lambert, who suits up for Winnipeg, while the Fleury brothers—Haydn for the Jets and Cale for Seattle—will square off on the ice. These personal connections add an extra layer of drama to an already compelling contest between Western Conference opponents.

Seattle Kraken vs Winnipeg Jets projected lineup: Kraken forward lines for October 23, 2025

The Kraken will ice a lineup hampered by several key injuries as they look to snap their recent slide. Berkly Catton, the promising rookie, will center the top line alongside Matty Beniers and veteran Jordan Eberle. This trio has shown chemistry in recent games, with Eberle leading the team with five points through seven contests.

Mason Marchment’s status remains uncertain as he’s listed as a game-time decision with a lower-body injury that forced him to miss Tuesday’s 4-1 loss to the Washington Capitals. If cleared to play, Marchment will likely skate on the second line with Chandler Stephenson and Eeli Tolvanen. Head coach Lane Lambert indicated that a final decision on Marchment would come closer to game time.

The third line features Jaden Schwartz, Shane Wright, and Jani Nyman, providing Seattle with depth scoring options. Wright, in particular, has been working to establish himself as a reliable two-way center after an up-and-down start to his NHL career. The fourth line consists of Tye Kartye, Ben Meyers, and Ryan Winterton, offering energy and defensive responsibility in limited minutes.

Seattle’s injury list reads like a who’s who of their offensive weapons. Jared McCann, who scored three goals in the first five games, is sidelined with a lower-body injury. Kaapo Kakko remains out for 6-8 weeks with a broken hand, while Frederick Gaudreau is dealing with an upper-body issue. These absences have significantly depleted the Kraken’s forward depth and scoring punch.

The absence of McCann particularly hurts Seattle’s offense, as he’s been one of their most consistent goal scorers. His injury has forced Lambert to juggle his lines, giving opportunities to younger players like Catton and Nyman to step into expanded roles earlier than anticipated in the season.

Seattle Kraken vs Winnipeg Jets projected lineup: Jets forward combinations and offensive weapons

The Jets will roll out the same lineup that delivered a 2-1 road victory over the Calgary Flames on Monday, adhering to the “don’t fix it if it ain’t broke” philosophy. The top line of Kyle Connor, Mark Scheifele, and Gabriel Vilardi has been dominant, accounting for a significant portion of Winnipeg’s offensive output. Scheifele leads the team with 10 points, including seven goals, while Connor has contributed six assists.

The second line features the veteran trio of Nino Niederreiter, Jonathan Toews, and Gustav Nyquist. This group provides a perfect blend of experience and two-way play, offering strong defensive coverage while still possessing the ability to contribute offensively. Niederreiter’s net-front presence has been particularly valuable on the power play.

Alex Iafallo, Vladislav Namestnikov, and Brad Lambert comprise the third line. Lambert, playing against his uncle Lane, will look to continue his development in a middle-six role. His skating ability and offensive instincts have been on display through the early portion of the season, though consistency remains a work in progress for the young forward.

The fourth line of Cole Koepke, Morgan Barron, and Tanner Pearson has provided unexpected offensive contributions. Barron, who missed Wednesday’s practice with an undisclosed injury, participated in Thursday’s morning skate and received clearance to play. His return is crucial, as he’s been part of a fourth line that has exceeded expectations in generating scoring chances.

Winnipeg’s forward group is dealing with its own injury concerns, with Cole Perfetti (ankle), Dylan Samberg (wrist), and Adam Lowry (hip surgery) all sidelined. Despite these absences, the Jets have found ways to win through a combination of strong goaltending and opportunistic offense. The depth scoring from players like Pearson and Barron has helped offset the loss of Perfetti’s playmaking abilities.

The Jets’ offensive system under head coach Scott Arniel emphasizes quick transitions and supporting the puck carrier. This approach has allowed multiple lines to contribute, preventing opponents from keying on just the top line. The chemistry between Connor, Scheifele, and Vilardi has been evident, but the secondary scoring has been equally important to their success.

Seattle Kraken vs Winnipeg Jets projected lineup: Defensive pairings and blue-line analysis

Seattle’s defensive corps will feature Vince Dunn paired with Adam Larsson on the top pairing. Dunn’s offensive capabilities from the blue line make him a valuable asset in transition, while Larsson provides the stay-at-home presence and physical play. This pairing will likely draw the assignment of matching up against Winnipeg’s top line.

Josh Mahura and Jamie Oleksiak form the second pairing for the Kraken. Oleksiak’s 6-foot-7 frame and physical presence make him difficult to play against in front of the net, while Mahura offers puck-moving skills and the ability to join the rush. The chemistry between these two is still developing as they work to find the right balance.

The third pairing consists of Ryan Lindgren and Cale Fleury, with the latter facing his brother Haydn on the opposite side. According to reports from The Hockey News, the Fleury parents will attend the game wearing neutral attire, choosing not to favor either son with a jersey. This family affair adds a compelling personal storyline to the on-ice battle.

Notable for Seattle is the absence of Brandon Montour, who is listed as a healthy scratch alongside goaltender Philipp Grubauer and forward John Hayden. Montour’s benching is particularly surprising given his reputation as an offensive defenseman, suggesting Lambert may be unhappy with some aspect of his game or is simply trying different combinations.

Winnipeg’s defensive structure will be anchored by the elite top pairing of Josh Morrissey and Dylan DeMelo. Morrissey is among the league’s most underrated defensemen, capable of playing in all situations and logging heavy minutes. DeMelo’s defensive acumen and ability to make the right play under pressure make this pairing one of the most reliable in the NHL.

Logan Stanley and Neal Pionk compose the second pairing for the Jets. Stanley’s size and reach make him effective in defensive zone coverage, while Pionk contributes offense from the point and runs the second power-play unit. This duo has developed solid chemistry over the course of the season, providing consistent minutes in both even-strength and special teams situations.

Haydn Fleury and Luke Schenn round out Winnipeg’s defensive group as the third pairing. Schenn brings playoff experience and a physical edge, having won back-to-back Stanley Cups with Tampa Bay. His veteran presence helps stabilize the bottom pairing, while Fleury offers mobility and the ability to move the puck effectively.

Seattle Kraken vs Winnipeg Jets projected lineup: Goaltending matchup for October 23, 2025

Joey Daccord gets the starting nod for Seattle after posting strong numbers through the early season. Daccord has established himself as the Kraken’s number-one goaltender following Philipp Grubauer’s struggles last season. His ability to track the puck and make key saves at critical moments has given Seattle a chance to win games despite their recent offensive struggles.

Matt Murray serves as the backup for the Kraken, providing veteran experience and insurance behind Daccord. Murray’s career has been marked by injuries in recent years, but when healthy, he’s shown flashes of the form that helped him win two Stanley Cups with Pittsburgh. Grubauer’s demotion to healthy scratch status represents a significant fall from grace for a goaltender who once commanded a premium contract.

For Winnipeg, Connor Hellebuyck will make his sixth consecutive start. The 2024 Vezina Trophy winner has been nothing short of spectacular, posting a record that has him firmly in early-season award conversations. As detailed by the official NHL coverage, Hellebuyck’s ability to steal games gives the Jets confidence every time he takes the ice.

Hellebuyck’s numbers through the first six games have been elite, showcasing the form that has made him one of the league’s premier goaltenders for nearly a decade. His positioning, rebound control, and ability to read plays before they develop give Winnipeg a significant advantage in net. The Jets’ league-leading penalty kill owes much of its success to Hellebuyck’s ability to make key saves in shorthanded situations.

Eric Comrie backs up Hellebuyck, providing a capable insurance policy should the starter need rest. Comrie’s familiarity with the Jets’ defensive system and comfort level playing in Winnipeg make him a suitable backup option. However, given Hellebuyck’s track record and the team’s current success, there’s little reason to expect Comrie to see action unless the game gets out of hand.

The goaltending matchup clearly favors Winnipeg, with Hellebuyck representing one of the game’s elite netminders facing a Kraken team that has struggled to generate consistent offense. Daccord will need to match Hellebuyck save for save if Seattle hopes to steal points on the road.

Seattle Kraken vs Winnipeg Jets projected lineup: Special teams and key factors

The special teams battle could determine the outcome of this contest. Winnipeg enters with the NHL’s top-ranked penalty kill, successfully killing off penalties at an impressive rate through the first six games. Their ability to prevent opponents from gaining momentum on the power play has been a cornerstone of their early success.

The Jets’ power play ranks fifth in the league, clicking at an efficient rate that has allowed them to capitalize on opponent mistakes. The top unit features Connor, Scheifele, Vilardi, Morrissey, and Pionk—a combination of elite skill and shooting ability that poses problems for any penalty kill. Their puck movement and ability to create seams in the defensive coverage have made them dangerous with the man advantage.

Seattle counters with the 14th-ranked power play in the NHL, a respectable middle-of-the-pack unit that has shown flashes of effectiveness. However, their penalty kill ranks 29th out of 32 teams, representing a significant area of concern. This weakness could prove costly against Winnipeg’s potent power play, especially if the Kraken take unnecessary penalties.

The special teams differential tells the story of two teams on different trajectories. Winnipeg’s ability to both convert on their power play and shut down opponents’ man advantages gives them multiple paths to victory. Seattle must stay disciplined and avoid giving the Jets opportunities with the extra attacker, as their struggling penalty kill could be exposed by Winnipeg’s skill.

Faceoff percentage could also play a crucial role in this matchup. Scheifele has been dominant in the circle, winning key draws in both offensive and defensive zones. His ability to control possession off faceoffs gives Winnipeg advantageous starts to their shifts, particularly in crucial situations late in periods or when protecting a lead.

The Jets’ defensive structure has been stingy, allowing fewer goals than Seattle despite playing one fewer game. Their commitment to team defense, shot blocking, and limiting high-danger chances has made life easier for Hellebuyck, even though his excellence remains the foundation of their success.

What the Seattle Kraken vs Winnipeg Jets projected lineup means for October 23, 2025

The lineup configurations for both teams reflect their current circumstances and strategic priorities. Seattle’s injury-depleted roster forces Lane Lambert to rely more heavily on younger players and depth options to fill significant roles. The Kraken’s ability to compete will depend on whether these replacement players can exceed expectations and provide secondary scoring.

Winnipeg’s continuity with an unchanged lineup from their last victory demonstrates confidence in their current formula. The Jets are benefiting from established chemistry throughout their forward lines and defensive pairings, allowing them to play with cohesion that Seattle currently lacks due to injuries and lineup adjustments.

The family connections between the Lambert cousins and Fleury brothers add emotional elements that could influence the game’s intensity. Brad Lambert will certainly want to perform well against his uncle’s team, while the Fleury brothers will engage in what amounts to a family rivalry on hockey’s biggest stage. These personal motivations could elevate individual performances beyond typical regular-season efforts.

Both teams will look to establish their preferred playing style early. Winnipeg will aim to use their speed and transition game to generate odd-man rushes, while Seattle must focus on defensive responsibility and limiting high-danger chances. The Kraken’s path to victory likely requires strong goaltending from Daccord and opportunistic offense that capitalizes on limited chances.

The Jets’ home-ice advantage cannot be understated, as Canada Life Centre has been a fortress during their five-game winning streak. The energetic crowd and familiar surroundings give Winnipeg another edge in a matchup where they already hold several advantages on paper. Seattle will need to weather the early storm and stay within striking distance to have a chance in the game’s final moments.

This contest represents a critical juncture for both teams. The Jets can continue building momentum and solidifying their position atop the Central Division standings with a victory. For Seattle, stopping their recent slide requires a complete team effort and perhaps some good fortune against one of the league’s hottest teams. The projected lineups suggest Winnipeg holds most of the cards, but hockey’s unpredictability means the Kraken still have a puncher’s chance on the road.