Logan Cooley scored two goals to spark a comeback as the Utah Mammoth defeated the Seattle Kraken 6-2 on Thursday night. Utah scored six unanswered goals after falling behind early, turning the game decisively in its favor.
Karel Vejmelka made 25 saves to support the surge, helping Utah secure its second straight win. The result strengthened the Mammoth’s hold on the first wild-card position in the Western Conference, where they now sit five points clear of the chasing pack.
Seattle started fast but could not sustain its early advantage. The loss added to a difficult stretch for the Kraken, who have now dropped seven of their last eight games and continue to slip in the playoff race.
Kraken Start Strong Before Momentum Shifts
Seattle opened the game with energy and control. The Kraken generated early pressure and converted their chances, taking a 2-0 lead that put Utah on the back foot.
Jordan Eberle scored his 24th goal of the season to get Seattle on the board. Bobby McMann followed with his 27th, continuing his strong form since joining the team earlier in the season.
The Kraken looked organized in the opening period. They moved the puck effectively and limited Utah’s scoring chances. Joey Daccord made key saves to protect the early lead.
However, the game shifted as Utah found its rhythm. Seattle’s early momentum faded, and defensive lapses allowed the Mammoth to climb back into the contest.
Cooley Leads Utah Response
Cooley ignited Utah’s comeback with two quick goals. His 21st and 22nd of the season erased Seattle’s lead and reset the game before the second intermission.
He attacked with pace and finished efficiently, creating problems for Seattle’s defense. His goals changed the tone of the game and gave Utah confidence.
Nick Schmaltz completed the turnaround late in the second period. He scored on the power play with just over five minutes remaining, giving Utah a 3-2 lead heading into the final frame.
That goal proved to be a turning point. Utah carried momentum into the third period and controlled play from that point forward.
Third-Period Surge Seals Result
Utah extended its lead with a dominant third period. JJ Peterka scored early to create separation, and Dylan Guenther followed with his team-leading 37th goal of the season.
Michael Carcone added another goal to cap the scoring. The Mammoth executed cleanly in transition and took advantage of Seattle’s defensive breakdowns.
Utah’s attack remained balanced throughout the period. The team moved the puck quickly and created high-quality chances, forcing Seattle to chase the game.
Vejmelka remained steady in the net. He handled the limited chances Seattle generated late and ensured the comeback held.
Utah Strengthens Playoff Position
The win reinforced Utah’s position in the Western Conference standings. With a five-point cushion in the wild-card race, the Mammoth have created separation at a critical stage of the season.
The team has shown improved consistency in recent games. After a brief dip in form, Utah has responded with back-to-back wins and strong offensive production.
Cooley’s performance highlighted the team’s depth and scoring ability. Contributions from multiple players have allowed Utah to maintain pressure across all lines.
The Mammoth will look to carry this momentum into their next game as they continue to push toward a playoff berth.
Kraken Struggle Continues
Seattle’s loss extended a difficult run that has put its postseason hopes in jeopardy. The Kraken now trails multiple teams in the race for the final wild-card spot.
The team has struggled to maintain leads and close out games. Thursday’s collapse reflected those issues, as Seattle failed to respond after conceding momentum.
Daccord finished with 25 saves but faced sustained pressure as Utah’s attack intensified. The defense in front of him could not contain the Mammoth’s speed and movement.
Despite the setback, there were positive signs early in the game. Eberle and McMann continued to contribute offensively, and the team showed structure in the opening period.
Seattle will need to find consistency quickly. With only a few games remaining, each result carries significant weight in the standings.
Roster Notes And Looking Ahead
Kraken forward Ryan Winterton rejoined the team for the morning skate after a temporary leave of absence. His return adds depth, though his timeline for game action remains unclear.
Seattle will aim to regroup at home in its next outing against Chicago. The team needs a response to stay within reach of a playoff position.
Utah continues its road trip with a game in Vancouver. The Mammoth will look to extend their winning streak and further strengthen their hold on a postseason spot.
The game underscored the difference in momentum between the two teams. Utah capitalized on its chances and controlled the final stages, while Seattle could not regain its footing after losing the lead.
