Hurricanes, Kraken look ahead to Global Series finale after open practice in Helsinki

The Story

Helsinki hosted Friday’s open practices for the 2026 NHL Global Series at Veikkaus Arena, with the Carolina Hurricanes and Seattle Kraken preparing for the second and final game of the series on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET.

Carolina opened its practice with a goal by forward Seth Jarvis, who finished a drive toward the net and celebrated with a series of kisses to the crowd made up largely of children. Finnish defenseman Juuso Valimäki, who plays for the Hurricanes, said the event was “amazing” because “there’s not many chances like this” to see NHL games, players and practices in the country.

Both teams also leaned into the fan experience during the afternoon. Hurricanes’ mascot Stormy and the Kraken’s Buoy appeared during the session, while Jarvis’ moment and other on-ice activity drew loud responses from those in attendance.

Despite Thursday’s result, Carolina’s focus remained on improving for Saturday’s rematch after a 4-1 win that featured two goals by Finnish forward Sebastian Aho and one by Valimäki. The Hurricanes outshot Seattle 30-13 and recorded 84 shot attempts to Seattle’s 37, though the Kraken scored in the third period to avoid a shutout.

Carolina center and captain Jordan Staal, who missed the past 14 games with a calf injury, could return for Saturday. The 38-year-old took part in the two practices in Helsinki and played on special teams Friday, though coach Rod Brind’Amour said the team will determine his status after the morning skate. “We’ll see how he feels tomorrow,” Brind’Amour said, adding there is “no rush” to force a return.

The Hurricanes could also consider other lineup changes, including goalie Pyotr Kochetkov, who backed up Brandon Bussi on Thursday, and defenseman Alexander Nikishin, who was a scratch Thursday.

On the other side, the Kraken (9-7-1) said they may adjust their roster as they look for a stronger start and more consistent structure. Forward Matty Beniers said Seattle needs to “impose our game” rather than react, pointing to Carolina’s speed and hard play. Kraken coach Lane Lambert said the most disappointing part for his team was not playing with its “structure and … detail,” and stressed that Saturday’s improvements will require higher “battle level,” “compete level,” and speed.

Both teams will play Saturday before returning to North America following the Global Series. Taylor Hall framed the value of the week beyond the results, saying the visit is about “growing the game” and ensuring children “are dreaming for the stars.”