Ales Stezka’s NHL Journey Begins
On a Sunday night in Palm Desert, California, Firebirds goalie Ales Stezka (30) was seen reacting with a mix of relief and elation after securing a 4-3 shootout win against the Bakersfield Condors at Acrisure Arena. Little did he know that this pivotal moment would soon pave the way for his NHL debut. Just days later, on Wednesday, Stezka received the life-changing news that he had been called up to the Seattle Kraken. He would serve as the backup goaltender, stepping in for Philipp Grubauer, who was reassigned to the AHL with the Coachella Valley Firebirds. This transition marked a significant milestone in Stezka’s career, bringing him one step closer to his ultimate dream of playing in the NHL.
Sharing the Stage with the Firebirds
Stezka has spent the majority of the 2024-25 season as the Firebirds’ starting goaltender, alongside young netminder Niklas Kokko. In his 25 games with the Firebirds, Stezka posted a respectable .902 save percentage (SV%) and a 2.99 goals against average (GAA). These statistics are a testament to his consistency and reliability, traits that the Kraken management has recognized and valued. Stezka’s role with the Firebirds has been crucial, providing a stable presence in the net and helping to shape the team’s defensive strategy. Despite sharing starts with Kokko, Stezka has consistently delivered, earning the trust of his coaches and teammates.
A Break in the NHL
Following his call-up, Stezka is set to back up Joey Daccord, with the Kraken resuming their season after a break. Stezka’s first NHL game is scheduled for Saturday against the Florida Panthers, followed by a road game against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday. While he has yet to see game action this season or in his career, the opportunity to play at the highest level is a dream come true for the 28-year-old goaltender. The Kraken organization has high hopes for Stezka, and his performance in the AHL has been a key factor in this decision. With the team embarking on a challenging road trip, Stezka’s presence is expected to provide a solid backup option for the Kraken’s goaltending needs.
Philipp Grubauer’s AHL Reset
Philipp Grubauer, the Kraken’s mainstay goaltender, has dealt with a series of injuries and performance issues this season. Since being reassigned to the AHL, Grubauer has played in four games with a 3-1-0 record, a .907 SV%, and a 2.49 GAA. Although these numbers represent an improvement over his NHL stats, they fall short of the expectations the Kraken had for him. Grubauer’s 2024-25 NHL campaign has been marred by a .866 SV% and a 3.83 GAA, the worst of his career. The Kraken management is still deliberating on Grubauer’s future, considering his $5.9M cap hit and the team’s current position far from the playoff race. The possibility of Grubauer playing out the remainder of the season in the AHL remains on the table as the team evaluates their options.
A Chance for Stezka to Shine
With Grubauer’s uncertain future and the Kraken’s imminent road trip, the stage is set for Stezka to potentially make his NHL debut. The back-to-back games on Saturday and Sunday present a prime opportunity for him to showcase his skills and prove his worth. The Kraken coaching staff is optimistic about Stezka’s potential, and his performance in the AHL has been a positive indicator. The team’s journey through Florida and Tampa Bay will be a critical test for Stezka, and his ability to adapt to the NHL’s fast-paced and high-pressure environment will be closely watched.
Kraken’s Direction and Future Prospects
While the Kraken prepare for their upcoming road trip, the team’s direction is a topic of conversation. Seattle Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke recently addressed the team’s status on 93.3 KJR, reiterating the ownership group’s belief that they are ready to win now. Despite the challenges faced this season, including Jordan Eberle’s recovery from pelvis surgery, the Kraken remain committed to their long-term vision. Eberle’s presence at the team’s morning practice on Thursday, dressed in a white jersey and all smiles, is a positive sign. The Kraken’s management is focused on building a competitive roster that can contend in the near future, and the call-up of Ales Stezka is a step in the right direction. As the team continues to navigate the 2024-25 season, the expectations and aspirations of the players and management remain high.
