Welcome back to another day of NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game is the Edmonton Oilers vs Seattle Kraken.
NHL Predictions: December 18th including Edmonton Oilers vs Seattle Kraken
Chicago Blackhawks vs Dallas Stars
Head-to-Head: Chicago 0-0 Dallas
The first game of the night features two Central Division rivals that have yet to meet this season. This game could be interesting, despite not being the top bill of the night. The main reason for that is that both Marc-Andre Fleury and Braden Holtby started last night. So this should be a matchup of backup goaltenders.
Neither team has been performing all that well defensively this season overall, or in the last 10 games either. This should mean that a goaltending battle between Kevin Lankinen and Jake Oettinger will be the deciding factor of this game.
Prediction: Dallas wins 4-2
New Jersey Devils vs Detroit Red Wings
Head-to-Head: New Jersey 0-0 Detroit
Neither of these teams played last night, so they should both be coming into this game fresh. That being said, the Red Wings have been substantially better as of late than the Devils. The lack of consistent play in New Jersey is primarily due to no goal support and poor shot suppression by the team in front of goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood, who has given up three or more goals in his last three starts.
This game is very much going to be a battle of who scores last and doesn’t look to be much of a defensive battle. If you like to see lots of goals, this might just be the game for you.
Prediction: New Jersey wins 4-3
Edmonton Oilers vs Seattle Kraken
Head-to-Head: Edmonton 1-1 Seattle
While this game might not strike many as the game of the night, there is plenty of reason for fans and neutral hockey fans alike to appreciate it. The main two reasons are Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
These two dynamic forwards are the exact reason why the Oilers currently sit atop the NHL in powerplay percentage at a ridiculous 31.5%. Their play, both even strength and on special teams, is also why they are seventh in GF/GP at 3.36 and are currently averaging 32.7 shots per game. Pair this with a Kraken defence that is currently allowing 3.52 GA/GP and you have the making for a one-sided affair.
Prediction: Edmonton wins 5-1
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