The Seattle Kraken need to proceed their positive momentum heading into the midway point of January. A matchup with the Recent Jersey Devils provided a possibility to get one other vital two points on the board. Unfortunately for Seattle, Dougie Hamilton and the Devils emerged victorious. This didn’t sit well with Kraken goaltender Philipp Grubauer.
Recent Jersey captain Nico Hischier scored the game-winning goal with a nifty move in time beyond regulation. Because the Devils were celebrating, Grubauer skated toward center ice. Hamilton appeared to stray from his teammates and skate toward the Kraken netminder. Grubauer promptly shoved the Devils defenseman, causing on-ice officials to intervene immediately.
Philipp Grubauer shoved Dougie Hamilton at center ice while skating off after Hischier’s OT winner #NJDevils pic.twitter.com/aeJLZVortg
— Rob Taub (@RTaub_) January 15, 2026
Why Grubauer shoved Hamilton is unclear. One potential point of contention may very well be the best way the sport ended. Hischier made contact with the Kraken netminder during his game-winning goal. It is also possible that Hamilton and Grubauer exchanged words, though all the things stays speculation right now.
The Devils actually needed a win within the midst of their ongoing struggles. Recent Jersey entered this game having lost eight of its last 11 games. They were sixth within the Metropolitan Division, just two points clear of last place. Wednesday’s win gives them some respiration room.
As for the Kraken, they’ve now lost three of their last 4 games. This stretch comes on the back of very solid play, nonetheless. Seattle had won eight of its previous nine games before this recent four-game stretch.
Grubauer has been a serious brilliant spot, as well. After being nearly unplayable last season, the Kraken netminder has rebounded spectacularly. He has a .924 save percentage through 16 total games this yr.
The Kraken will look to get back heading in the right direction once they tackle the red-hot Boston Bruins on Thursday night.