Welcome to the latest edition of NHL Predictions. Every day, the Last Word on Hockey team digs into upcoming games to provide analysis on the matchups and what ingredients could make the difference. Today, we will be taking a deep dive into the Carolina Hurricanes’ next stop on their western road trip – the Seattle Kraken.
NHL Predictions
Carolina Hurricanes at Seattle Kraken
Time: 10:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
TV: Fan Duel Sports Network South, ESPN+
The Carolina Hurricanes will be going for a faceoff at the Seattle Kraken’s home ice before they go on their own five-game road trip, mostly consisting of Eastern Conference matches. The Kraken faced the Winnipeg Jets Thursday with a dominant first period before falling behind in the second. Fighting for the win in the third period, they managed to force overtime but failed to grasp the two points. Meanwhile, the Hurricanes have completed an Alberta sweep, defeating the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames back-to-back for the first time since the 2017-18 season.
The Hurricanes Story
Let’s begin with the Hurricanes on this slate of NHL Predictions. The Carolina Hurricanes had a rocky start at the beginning of the season but have since been finding their groove with each game on the road. With Head Coach Rod Brind’Amour continuing to fine-tune the lines, we’re getting to see some new looks and new strategies.
In the previous game against the Calgary Flames, the Canes went in with optimism after having achieved an overtime win against last season’s Western Conference Champions in Edmonton. In Calgary, the Canes started out strong and kept the pressure on the Flames, scoring the first three goals. However, in the latter half of the game, the defence wavered and the Flames came back with two. By the end of the game, Carolina’s hard work paid off with the win.
The game included multiple achievements with Martin Necas notching his 100th NHL goal, Jordan Martinook skating his 400th game in a Canes sweater, Eric Robinson netting his first goal with the Canes, and “nyetminder” Pyotr Kochetkov getting his first NHL assist.
The Krakens Story
This season has been good so far for the Krakens. As a matter of fact, they have their best record yet for the first 8 games of the season. Head Coach Dan Bylsma has had a notable impact on setting this team up for success.
On Thursday, the Kraken played a mean game against the Winnipeg Jets, who currently sit undefeated. The Kraken’s power line was what is typically the first, with Matty Beniers at center and Jared McCann and Jordan Eberle on the wings. All official goals on the board came from this line. Seattle’s third line did see a goal by Oliver Bjorkstrand, but it was ultimately removed as Yanni Gourde had obstructed Jets Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck. The Kraken still managed to force the Jets into overtime but was unable to get the win.
Prediction: Carolina Hurricanes at Seattle Kraken
The Seattle Kraken and Carolina Hurricanes have both been alternating their goaltenders. If the pattern that both have been utilizing continues, then it’d likely be Philipp Grubauer and Frederik Andersen between the pipes. This season, Grubauer has allowed 12 goals on 101 shots in four games played. Meanwhile, Andersen has allowed only five goals on 82 shots in three games played. In the crease, Carolina should have the advantage. However, this is not only a game between the tendies. Seattle has found their footing as a highly offensive team with the ability to find the back of the net when they need it. But Carolina’s defence has become something that defines them and continues to do so. Both teams are pretty evenly matched, with a slightly larger chance of Carolina taking the win.
Prediction: Hurricanes win 4-3
Prop Bets of the Night
Per Bet365, this game’s over/under is at 6.0, with over obviously being +100. For players, I would go with Shayne Gostisbehere recording a point at +140, and Jordan Eberle at +128. Gostisbehere has been on a point streak, and with his keen eye for scoring, this is both reasonable and very possible. As for Eberle, he has been the most prolific goal scorer so far this season, being right behind Jared McCann (the Kraken’s current favourite this game) for points.
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