KIRO 7′s Chris Francis interviews Kraken forward Eeli Tolvanen ahead of Game 2

Ahead of the Seattle Kraken’s second game in Round 2 of the Stanley Cup playoffs against the Dallas Stars, KIRO 7′s Chris Francis spoke with Kraken forward Eeli Tolvanen about what he expects to see from the Stars tonight.

“You go down one - nothing, your desperation level goes up,” Tolvanen said. “They’re a really good team. We’re going to expect they’re going to show up tonight.”

The Kraken lead the series 1-0, after an overtime win in Dallas on Monday.

Tolvanen, who is Finnish, was selected by the Nashville Predators in the first round of the 2017 NHL Draft.

Francis asked Tolvanen what it was like to play against other Finnish players on the Dallas side of the ice.

“In the playoffs, you really don’t think of that. Doesn’t matter who sits next you in the lineup,” Tolvanen said. “Of course, it’s nice. Finnish hockey has come a long way. It’s so awesome to see so many young players make the league.”

Francis asked if Tolvanen wished there was a second Finnish player on the Kraken team.

“Yea, of course!” Tolvanen said.

Game 2 of Round 2 versus the Dallas Stars is Thursday night from Dallas at 6:30 p.m.

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