Senators vs Canucks Picks and Prediction – 12/22/2024

The Ottawa Senators and Vancouver Canucks clash at Rogers Arena on Saturday night. The Senators, sitting at 17-13-2 and fifth in the Atlantic Division, enter this game after a 3-2 win over Calgary. Vancouver, 16-10-6 and fourth in the Pacific Division, comes off a 3-1 loss to Vegas. Both teams aim to build momentum as they approach the midpoint of the record season. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

The Senators have shown offensive prowess, led by Brady Tkachuk with 16 goals and Tim Stutzle contributing 27 assists. Ottawa ranks 14th in the league with 99 goals scored, while the power play operates at an impressive 25%, ranked seventh in the NHL. Linus Ullmark has been solid in net, boasting a .916 save percentage and a 2.37 goals-against average. 

Defensively, Ottawa allows just 90 goals, ranking 10th, but struggles on the penalty kill at 76.7%, 24th in the league. Key injuries to players like Artem Zub and David Perron could affect defensive depth, which may prove costly in tight matchups.

The Canucks are equally skilled offensively, matching Ottawa's 99 goals. Quinn Hughes leads the way with 30 assists, and an 11.9% shooting accuracy ranks fourth in the league. Vancouver’s defense has been inconsistent, surrendering 98 goals, which places them 16th. 

The penalty kill is stronger than Ottawa’s, operating at 80.2%, and goaltender Kevin Lankinen has posted a respectable .912 save percentage with a 2.50 goals-against average. However, the absence of Filip Hronek from the blue line adds pressure to the defense.

Ottawa’s superior defensive stats and power-play efficiency give them a slight edge. Despite the Canucks’ offensive potency, the Senators’ consistent goaltending and scoring depth should carry them to victory. Look for Ottawa to exploit Vancouver’s defensive lapses and secure a hard-fought win. Final Score Prediction: Ottawa Senators win 4-3.