Seattle Kraken and Colorado Avalanche: Winner-Take-All Game 7.
1. Introduction
The opening-round playoff series between the Seattle Kraken and the Colorado Avalanche has been a dramatic one, with the winner-take-all Game 7 deciding who advances to Round 2. The series has been marred by a number of controversies and distractions, including the disappearance of Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the drama surrounding the series and what it means for both teams.
Kraken vs. Avalanche Playoff Series: More Than Just a Game
2. Jordan Eberle's boarding penalty
Kraken forward Jordan Eberle has been at the center of controversy in the series after he was involved in a boarding penalty against Andrew Cogliano in Game 6. Cogliano was left with a fractured neck, and many fans are outraged that Eberle has not been suspended. The league opted not to hold a hearing, but many fans believe that Eberle deserves the same treatment as Avalanche player Cale Makar, who received a one-game suspension for a hit in Game 4 that knocked out Jared McCann.
3. Cale Makar's suspension
Cale Makar's suspension in Game 5 has also been a point of controversy in the series. Makar was suspended for a hit on McCann, and many fans believe that Eberle's hit on Cogliano was just as bad and should have resulted in a suspension. The NHL disagreed, and Eberle was allowed to play in Game 7. However, the controversy surrounding the hit has only added to the drama of the series.
4. Valeri Nichushkin's disappearance
In addition to the controversy surrounding the hits in the series, the disappearance of Avalanche forward Valeri Nichushkin has also been a major distraction. Nichushkin went missing before Game 3, and the circumstances surrounding his disappearance are unclear. A police report released on Thursday stated that a woman was found heavily intoxicated and in behavioral distress when Avalanche employees went to check on Nichushkin in a room last Saturday, a week ago, at the Four Seasons Hotel located in the downtown area.. While Nichushkin has since spoken with Avalanche coach Jared Bednar, no one from the Avalanche will disclose the reason for his departure or whereabouts.
5. Officials, conspiracy theories, and fan reactions
The drama of the series has also led to a number of conspiracy theories and fan reactions. Many fans are outraged at the officials, who they believe have been biased against their team. Others believe that the NHL is trying to prevent the Avalanche from winning the series. Regardless of the truth behind these claims, they have added to the drama of the series and will likely continue to be a talking point after the game is over.
6. Conclusion
The opening-round playoff series between the Seattle Kraken and the Colorado Avalanche has been a dramatic one with too many twists and turns.
