Seattle Kraken defenseman Ville Ottavainen will make his NHL debut tonight as the Kraken host the Los Angeles Kings in their final game of the season, HC Dan Bylsma confirms.
The Kraken recalled the 22-year-old from the Coachella Valley Firebirds yesterday on an emergency basis. All six Kraken defensemen were with the team at their optional practice so it's unclear who will be out of the lineup tonight in place of Ottavainen.
In 66 AHL games this season, Ottavainen has scored three goals and 14 points. His 6'5, 216 lbs frame should allow him to feel comfortable with the physicality in the NHL.
The Kraken will become the first team with five picks from the 2021 draft to play in the NHL, those being Matty Beniers, Ryker Evans, Ryan Winterton, Ottavainen and Jacob Melanson.
The Kings are locked into second place in the Pacific Division, securing home-ice advantage against the Edmonton Oilers in the first round. The Kings also played last night against the Oilers, and it wouldn't be too surprising to see them rest multiple players tonight.
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