Ostman Shines in NHL Debut, But Kraken Fall to Avalanche

Rookie goalie Victor Ostman makes 33 saves, but Seattle's offense struggles in 2-0 loss to Presidents' Trophy winners

Apr. 17, 2026 at 4:54am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors depicting the dynamic movements of a hockey goaltender making a save, with the player's features and details dissolving into energetic brushstrokes.In his NHL debut, Kraken goalie prospect Victor Ostman showcased his talent and composure, providing a bright spot in an otherwise frustrating season finale loss.Denver Today

In his NHL debut, Kraken rookie goaltender Victor Ostman turned in a stellar performance, making 33 saves against the Presidents' Trophy-winning Colorado Avalanche. However, the Kraken offense was unable to generate much offense, managing only 4 scoring chances compared to 24 for Colorado, as Seattle fell 2-0 in the season finale.

Why it matters

Ostman's strong debut is an encouraging sign for the Kraken's goaltending depth, as the team looks to build on its first two NHL seasons. While the loss drops Seattle's final record to 34-37-11, the team showed promise in Ostman's performance despite the offensive struggles.

The details

Ostman, a 25-year-old Swede, was calm and sturdy in net, turning away 15 shots in the first period alone. The Kraken defense was able to limit Colorado's high-danger chances early, but a tipped shot from Nick Blankenburg late in the second period broke the deadlock. The Avalanche added an empty-net goal in the final minutes to seal the victory.

  • Ostman faced and stopped 8 shots on goal in the first 5 minutes of his NHL debut.
  • The Kraken video coaches correctly challenged and overturned a Colorado goal in the first period due to an offside violation.
  • Ostman's scoreless streak was broken late in the second period when a Vince Dunn scrum in front of the net appeared to distract Ostman on a tipped shot from Blankenburg.

The players

Victor Ostman

A 25-year-old Swedish goaltender making his NHL debut for the Kraken after a strong season with their AHL affiliate.

Nick Blankenburg

Colorado Avalanche defenseman who scored the game's opening goal on a tipped shot in the second period.

Vince Dunn

Kraken defenseman who was penalized for roughing after a scrum in front of the net that may have distracted Ostman on the Avalanche's opening goal.

Vince Stalletti

Goaltending coach for the AHL's Coachella Valley Firebirds, Ostman's minor league team, who praised Ostman's consistent play this season.

Tim Ohashi

Video coach for the Seattle Kraken who correctly identified an offside violation to overturn a Colorado goal in the first period.

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What they’re saying

“What Victor is just naturally very good at, and where he has taken strides this season, is being really consistent. In executing the game plan, he has played consistently this season, starting quality hockey games almost every night. In the second half of the year, he's gonna give you a chance to win, and you know he's actually. He has stolen a couple of games too [for the Firebirds and with goal support could well have done in Thursday's finale].”

— Vince Stalletti, Goaltending Coach, Coachella Valley Firebirds

What’s next

The Kraken will look to build on Ostman's strong debut and address their offensive struggles in the offseason as they aim to take the next step in their third NHL campaign.

The takeaway

Despite the loss, Ostman's impressive NHL debut provides hope for the Kraken's goaltending depth and future, even as the team's overall offensive struggles in the season finale highlight areas for improvement heading into the offseason.