Date: January 27, 2025
Time: 9:30 PM EST
Location: Rogers Place, Edmonton, AB

 

Recent Performance

Edmonton Oilers (31-15-3): The Oilers are looking to build off some momentum after a narrow 3-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres on January 25th. Despite the setback with the McDavid suspension, Edmonton has been strong in his absence, boasting a 2-1 record. Their offense, led by Leon Draisaitl and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, has been potent, but defensive consistency remains a focal point.

Seattle Kraken (22-25-3): The Kraken recently secured a 4-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on January 26th, with Vince Dunn contributing a pivotal goal. This win was a morale booster, ending a challenging stretch where Seattle struggled to limit opponents’ goals with consistency. They aim to build off the win last game as they face the Oilers tonight on the road.

 

Team Records and Trends

Edmonton Oilers

• Overall Record: 31-15-3
• Home Record: 17-8-1
• Power Play: 24.6% (7th in the NHL)
• Penalty Kill: 76.6% (23rd in the NHL)
• Last 10 Games: 7-3-0

The Oilers’ offense ranks among the league’s best, driven by their dynamic forward lines. Their power play is a significant asset, converting at a high rate. Defensively, while generally solid, they have areas needing improvement, particularly in reducing high-danger scoring chances against.

Seattle Kraken

• Overall Record: 22-25-3
• Road Record: 10-14-0
• Power Play: 18.8% (24th in the NHL)
• Penalty Kill: 76.8% (22nd in the NHL)
• Last 10 Games: 5-5-0

Seattle has faced challenges this season, particularly in maintaining offensive pressure and special teams performance. Their power play and penalty kill percentages are below league average, highlighting areas for potential improvement.

 

Key Players to Watch

Edmonton Oilers

• Leon Draisaitl: Leading the team with 35 goals and 39 assists, Draisaitl’s offensive prowess is undeniable. He has a notable track record against Seattle, amassing 25 points in 11 career games over the course of his career.
• Ryan Nugent-Hopkins: A consistent contributor, Nugent-Hopkins has been pivotal in both even-strength and power-play situations, recently netting two goals in a win against the Buffalo Sabres on January 25th..

Seattle Kraken

• Kaapo Kakko: Since being traded he’s been steadily developing into a key contributor for the Kraken, showcasing his offensive creativity with 5 assists in his last 5 games and improving the overall two-way game of the team.
• Chandler Stephenson: An essential part of the Kraken’s forward lineup, Stephenson has been effective in creating scoring opportunities and providing veteran leadership on the ice. He’s got 2 goals and 3 assists in his last 5 games.

 

Injury Report

Edmonton Oilers

• No significant injuries reported.

Seattle Kraken

• Jordan Eberle – Resumed workouts and light skating in his recovery from a pelvic surgery – Injured Reserve
• Yanni Gourde – No timeline for his return to the lineup – Injured Reserve

 

Goaltending Matchup

Edmonton Oilers

• Stuart Skinner: Expected to start, Skinner has been reliable between the pipes, contributing to the team’s strong January performance. He carries a 19-11-3 record with a 2.69 goals against average and .902 save percentage.

Seattle Kraken

• Philipp Grubauer: Likely to get the nod, Grubauer has faced challenges this season but remains a crucial component of Seattle’s defense. This season he is 5-14-1 with a 3.76 goals against average and .870 save percentage. Joey Daccord could see the start tonight too, he has a 17-11-2 record in 32 games with a goals against average of 2.43 and a save percentage of .916 this season.

 

Game Outlook

The Oilers enter this matchup with a favorable outlook, given their recent form and offensive depth. Maintaining discipline and capitalizing on power-play opportunities will be key to their success.

For the Kraken, focusing on defensive structure and seeking to exploit any defensive lapses by Edmonton will be essential. Improving special teams performance could also play a pivotal role in their quest for an upset.

Anticipate a competitive game, with Edmonton’s offensive firepower potentially being the deciding factor.

 

Don’t miss out on the latest picks and analysis! Join my Discord for exclusive insights and plays: https://discord.gg/nYuBqc26dh

-BetOnBanana