The Seattle Kraken suffered a dispiriting loss to the Colorado Avalanche, who demonstrated a level of play that the home team was unable to match.
The Avalanche were at their best and the Kraken struggled to keep up, resulting in a disappointing 4-1 loss
The defeat sets up a crucial Game 7 in Denver, where the Kraken will need to quickly regain their form and composure if they hope to advance.
This loss highlighted the Kraken's struggle to maintain the same level of play at home as they do on the road.
The winner of the upcoming Game 7 between the Seattle Kraken and the Colorado Avalanche will advance to face the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference semifinals.
The Stars secured their spot by defeating the Minnesota Wild in six games and will host the best-of-seven series starting in the middle of next week.
The Kraken can take solace in the fact that defending Stanley Cup champions have only won 5 out of 13 opening-round Game 7s, giving them a statistical advantage heading into the crucial matchup at Ball Arena.