Daccord was overshadowed by the selection and signing of free-agent goaltender Chris Driedger, who starred for the Florida Panthers last year. The Kraken also picked rookie goalie sensation Vitek Vanecek from the Washington Capitals.
As it turned out, Kraken No. 1 goalie Philipp Grubauer signed with Seattle in the early hours of NHL Free Agency in a surprise move. Subsequently, Vanecek was traded back to Washington for a draft choice. Daccord remained as the third goalie in line for NHL playing time.
Daccord, who appeared in nine games for the Ottawa Senators, was an active participant and conversationalist during camp. He didn't appear to miss a single stretch session or water break to pick the brains of Grubauer and Driedger. He gave positive interviews about the chance to get some work in the Kraken net.
He impressed with every third-period appearance he was provided while Grubauer and Driedger got the requisite work of NHL-roster goaltenders. One informed NHL broadcast analyst declared Daccord the "best player on the ice" during one road game.
When Daccord packed up, assigned to AHL Charlotte, the 25-year-old goaltender left camp with a smile and commitment to work hard and be ready.
Playing for Charlotte, Daccord stopped 26 of 27 shots Sunday to lead the AHL affiliate to its first victory of the season over the home team Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, 4-1.
Like teammate Yanni Gourde, Daccord arrives ahead of schedule with Driedger out with a lower-body injury.
