The Seattle Kraken hit the NEFHL ice as a team for the first time on Monday. The squad put forth a strong effort, but fell 4-2 to the Edmonton Oilers. Head coach Rick Tocchet was pleased with the team's effort in its inaugural preseason game.

"I thought the team busted their tails out there tonight" Tocchet said to the media post-game. "That's all I can ask as the team's coach this season. We realize that there are going to be many nights that we struggle to score with our lack of true top-six centremen. I thought the guys worked well together and showed commitment to our system."

The Oilers outshot the Kraken 29-27 on the night - so a pretty even game overall (especially at even-strength). The Oilers scored its fourth goal in the last minute to ice the game. Kraken forwards Connor Sheary and Reilly Smith scored the Kraken's two goals, with defenceman Zach Whitecloud contributing two assists. Goaltender Braden Holtby had a decent outing in stopping 25/29 Oiler shots. The Kraken were rather undisciplined during the game, however, with the Oilers having 5 powerplays to the Kraken's one. If the Kraken hope to be competitive this season, they'll have to stay out of the penalty box.

Reilly Smith figures to be one of the Kraken's best players this season. The experienced winger was the team's best player on Monday, scoring a goal and recording seven shots on goal. 

The Kraken's General Manager continues to scour the free agency market to see if there's a player that could add some experience to the team's inaugural roster. No changes are imminent, but time will tell if a player or two is added.