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 Dallas Stars vs Seattle Kraken. Keep checking our NHL predictions throughout the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
NHL Predictions
Series: Stars 3-2 Kraken
Our featured and only game is the Dallas Stars looking to close out the Seattle Kraken. The Stars have scored 11 goals in their last two games to take the series lead up to the Pacific Northwest. Dallas will start Jake Oettinger in net once again in hopes of closing out the series. The Stars also won their opening-round series in six games over the Minnesota Wild. Roope Hintz took command in Game 5 to give Dallas a chance to clinch the series. Miro Heiskanen‘s return to the lineup has given the Stars a huge boost on the blueline. Game 5 also saw Jason Robertson get on the scoresheet with three assists. Dallas will need Robertson to get his first-round from back if it wants to beat the Edmonton Oilers or Vegas Golden Knight in the Western Conference Final.
Philipp Grubauer will be tasked with keeping the Kraken alive once again. Seattle will have the loud home crowd on its side at Climate Pledge Arena. Jared McCann did score after returning to the lineup, but the Kraken have found contributions from so many skaters. However, the defence needs to tighten things up if Seattle wants to force a second Game 7 of their post-season run. Dallas has been able to find space and finish off chances in the last two games. It’s been a good run, but it’s now or never for the Kraken.
Seattle has played some great hockey this post-season. Kraken fans should be excited for the future. However, Dallas will book its spot in the Western Final.
Prediction: Stars win 5-3.
Main photo by: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
