Oilers vs Kraken Picks and Prediction – 1/5/2025

The Edmonton Oilers (22-12-3) travel to Seattle to face the Kraken (17-19-3) at Climate Pledge Arena on January 4, 2025, at 9:00 PM. The Oilers are coming off a dominant 4-1 win over Utah, while the Kraken secured a 5-2 victory over Utah in the last outing. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

The Oilers have been strong offensively, averaging 3.27 goals per game while generating 31.9 shots per contest. Leon Draisaitl leads the charge with 56 points, including 27 goals and 29 assists, supported by Connor McDavid’s 39 assists and 11 power-play points. Edmonton’s power play converts at an efficient 22.9%, giving them a consistent edge with the man advantage. Injuries to Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Zach Hyman could limit secondary scoring, but the team’s top scorers are more than capable of stepping up.

Defensively, the Oilers allow 2.84 goals per game, backed by Stuart Skinner’s 2.81 goals-against average and .897 save percentage. Calvin Pickard offers additional stability with a 2.51 GAA and a .898 save percentage. Edmonton’s penalty kill, sitting at 77%, has been a weak spot, but they’ve minimized short-handed goals. Staying out of the box will be key against Seattle’s opportunistic attack.

The Kraken’s offense has struggled at times, averaging 2.90 goals per game and 27 shots per contest. Jared McCann leads Seattle with 28 points, including 13 goals, while Chandler Stephenson adds 20 assists. The power play has converted just 18.3% of opportunities, putting pressure on even-strength scoring. Injuries to McCann and other forwards could limit scoring depth, which has already been an issue this season.

Defensively, the Kraken allow 3.10 goals per game and rely heavily on Joey Daccord, who boasts a 2.51 goals-against average and .912 save percentage. Philipp Grubauer, with a 3.50 GAA and .877 save percentage, has struggled when called upon. Seattle’s penalty kill has been more effective at 78.9%, but inconsistent goaltending raises concerns. They’ll need Daccord to be sharp to keep Edmonton’s potent offense in check.

The Oilers’ offensive firepower and strong goaltending edge give them a clear advantage over a Kraken team dealing with injuries and inconsistent scoring. Edmonton’s superior special teams, particularly the 22.9% power-play conversion rate, should exploit Seattle’s shortcomings. Expect Edmonton to control possession and generate more high-danger chances. Final Score Prediction: Edmonton Oilers win 4-2.