Kraken vs Golden Knights Picks and Prediction – 12/22/2024

The Seattle Kraken (15-17-2) travel to T-Mobile Arena to face the Vegas Golden Knights (21-8-3) in a Pacific Division showdown. Seattle enters this game on a three-game losing streak, the most recent defeat a 3-1 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks. Vegas, on the other hand, is riding high after a solid 3-1 victory against Vancouver. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

Seattle’s offense has struggled this season, ranking 19th in the NHL with 96 goals scored. Jared McCann leads the Kraken with 15 goals, while Vince Dunn has been a steady contributor with 15 assists. The power play, converting at just 17.5% (24th in the league), has failed to consistently capitalize on opportunities. In net, Joey Daccord has been decent, posting a .913 save percentage and a 2.49 goals-against average, but the team’s defense, ranked 18th in goals against with 101, has lacked consistency.

Defensively, the Kraken have been plagued by penalties, tallying 220 penalty minutes, the fourth-most in the NHL. While the penalty kill is middle of the pack at 80%, they’ll need to stay disciplined to avoid giving Vegas chances to exploit its top-five power play. Injuries to key players like Jordan Eberle further complicate Seattle’s struggles on both ends of the ice.

Vegas continues to shine offensively, ranking 8th in goals scored with 110. Jack Eichel has been outstanding with 33 points, including nine goals. Ivan Barbashev and Chandler Stephenson have also been reliable contributors, combining for 24 assists. The Golden Knights boast the fourth-best power play in the league at 27.3% and are a top-six shooting team, converting at 11.5%. 

Defensively, the Golden Knights have been solid, ranking 13th in goals against with 92. Goaltender Adin Hill has been dependable with a .901 save percentage, 2.69 goals-against average, and two shutouts. Despite a slightly below-average penalty kill (79.7%, 17th), Vegas is disciplined, accumulating just 173 penalty minutes, the second-fewest in the league. Injuries to Nicolas Roy and Ivan Barbashev could impact depth, but their core remains intact.

Vegas holds a clear edge in offensive firepower and special teams. The disciplined play and ability to capitalize on power-play opportunities will overwhelm the struggling Kraken. Expect Vegas to control the pace and secure a decisive victory. Final Score Prediction: Vegas Golden Knights win 4-2.