Kraken Dominate Sabres in NHL Showdown: Key Predictions and Stats

SEATTLE, Wash. — The Seattle Kraken extended their dominance over the Buffalo Sabres with a decisive 6-2 victory on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Climate Pledge Arena. The Kraken have now won six of their seven matchups against the Sabres, scoring four or more goals in each of those victories.

The game began with a flurry of action, as a goal in the first 10 minutes has been a consistent trend in Seattle’s recent games, cashing in five straight and nine of their last 10. The first period also saw the Over 1.5 goals hit, a trend that has been prevalent in both teams’ recent performances. Buffalo, playing the front end of a back-to-back, struggled defensively, giving up four or more goals in all six losses this season in such scenarios.

Kaapo Kakko, who has been a standout since joining the Kraken, continued his impressive form with a five-game point streak, including two goals and an assist in this game. Kakko now has 13 points in 14 games with Seattle. “Kaapo has been a game-changer for us,” said Kraken coach Dave Hakstol. “His ability to create opportunities and finish plays has been crucial.”

Buffalo’s goaltending woes continued as Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen remained sidelined with an undisclosed injury, forcing the Sabres to recall Devon Levi, who made his first start of the season. Despite the loss, Alex Tuch and Nicolas Aube-Kubel showed flashes of brilliance, with Tuch scoring his fourth goal in five games against Seattle.

The Kraken’s offensive firepower was on full display, with the team covering the Puck Line (-1.5 goals) in five of their six wins over Buffalo. Seattle’s ability to capitalize on early opportunities and maintain pressure throughout the game has been a key factor in their success this season.

Looking ahead, the Kraken will aim to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next matchup, while the Sabres will need to regroup quickly with another game on the horizon. The NHL season continues to deliver thrilling action, and fans can expect more high-stakes games as teams jockey for playoff positioning.