Seattle Kraken (10-14-9) vs. Anaheim Ducks (12-19-0)
As the NHL regular season winds onward, another exciting matchup awaits this Saturday between Seattle Kraken (10-14-9) and Anaheim Ducks (12-19-0). Set for Honda Center at 8:00 PM ET, this pivotal contest between these teams provides both with crucial moments as they navigate season’s trials. Plus, ESPN+ streaming will allow viewers nationwide to view this battle between two formidable squads! Get your hockey picks today.
The Kraken offense, led by right winger Oliver Bjorkstrand and his team-high 26 points, has struggled recently during their five-game losing streak. However, their 11-5 road record against the spread shows they can compete away from home. They’ll need to take advantage of an Anaheim defense that gives up 3.48 goals per game.
For the Ducks, right winger Frank Vatrano leads the team with 23 points while center Mason McTavish has impressed in his sophomore season putting up 21 points. Their struggling defense and penalty kill that stops just 71.4% of power plays could be a problem against a dangerous Kraken power play converting 23.1% of chances.
Seattle Kraken vs. Anaheim Ducks Game Info
| When: | December 23, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Honda Center |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Joey Daccord vs. Goaltender John Gibson
Joey Daccord has put up passable numbers this season, posting a 2.65 goals against average along with a .905 save percentage in 19 appearances. However, he has found wins hard to come by, going just 5-9 with five overtime losses. Daccord has particularly struggled on the penalty kill, saving under 90% of power play shots faced. He could be tested in that area against an Anaheim squad that converts over 21% of man advantage situations. If Daccord has an off night, the Kraken could be in trouble despite only allowing 28.5 shots per contest.
Ducks starter John Gibson has also posted mediocre rate stats with a 2.85 goals against average and .906 save percentage. The 29-year-old has already been ridden hard this season, starting 21 of Anaheim’s 31 games so far. That heavy workload may be taking its toll, as Gibson has given up three or more goals in eight of his last nine outings. Fatigue issues could crop up on the second night of a back-to-back situation for the Ducks. If so, Gibson may struggle against a capable Kraken offense that generates over 3 goals per game. His recent form inspires little confidence heading into this matchup.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game remain undecided, but analyzing the team’s recent performances and standings gives us an insight into what to expect. The Kraken’s struggle in their last few games might tilt the odds slightly in favor of the Ducks, but the unpredictable nature of NHL games, especially with teams so closely matched, makes this a potentially lucrative betting opportunity.
Seattle Kraken Betting Trends
The Kraken are 0-5 straight up and 1-4 against the spread during their recent skid. Surprisingly, the UNDER has hit in four of those five games as scoring has disappeared. The totals have gone OVER in just one of their previous five matchups. Seattle has succeeded against the spread away from home, posting an 11-5 road record.
Anaheim Ducks Betting Trends
The Ducks had won three straight games before losing their last outing to Winnipeg. They covered the spread in three of those four contests. Despite defensive issues, the OVER trend in their home games is eye-opening. The totals have gone OVER in seven of their previous 15 games at Honda Center. That continued offensive success seems likely against Seattle’s struggling defense.
Seattle Kraken vs. Anaheim Ducks 12/23/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and recent trends, this game appears to be a closely contested one, with a slight edge perhaps going to the Ducks, considering their slightly better form and home advantage. However, the Kraken’s potential for upsets, especially given their road game record, should not be underestimated.
For bettors looking into online betting, this game presents multiple interesting angles. The under total seems like a prudent choice given both teams’ recent trends. Additionally, considering prop bets on individual player performances, especially those of team leaders, might add value.
Free Pick and Prediction: Anaheim Ducks 3, Seattle Kraken 2
