Kraken pick up first Stanley Cup playoff win against defending champs

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There were of course so many "firsts" for the Seattle Kraken in their postseason debut.

First playoff goal for the franchise (and answer to a future trivia question) — Eeli Tolvanen. First playoff penalty — Will Borgen.

Above all, first playoff win and brief celebration.

Alex Wennberg had a goal and an assist, Philipp Grubauer stopped 34 shots and the Kraken made a successful postseason debut by beating the defending Stanley Cup champion Colorado Avalanche 3-1 on Tuesday night.

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Seattle Kraken center Alex Wennberg (21) celebrates a goal against the Colorado Avalanche during the second period of Game 1 of a first-round NHL hockey playoff series Tuesday, April 18, 2023, in Denver.  (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

The second-year Kraken became the 13th expansion franchise to earn a win in their first postseason game, according to NHL Stats.

"Obviously, we played a good game, getting the first franchise win in the playoffs. But right now this is Game 1," Wennberg said. "Obviously, we are happy about this performance, but we've got to do it again and do it again."

Grubauer was sharp all night against his former team. He frustrated Colorado’s top scorers with one big save after another, while his defense helped neutralize the Avalanche’s blazing speed.

"It’s definitely a weird feeling coming back but also really familiar," said Grubauer, who spent three seasons with the Avalanche before leaving for Seattle prior to the 2021-22 season. "There’s nothing better than playing against your old team in the playoffs."

Nathan MacKinnon didn't mince words when asked what he saw out of Grubauer.

"Nothing