Panthers vs Kraken: Preview and Predictions for the NHL Clash

The Florida Panthers, the reigning Stanley Cup champions, are set to face off against the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the Climate Pledge Arena. The Panthers have been on a strong run, winning five of their last six games, which has propelled them back into first place in the Atlantic Division with a 17-9-2 record.

The Panthers’ recent success is largely attributed to their potent offense, which averages 3.75 goals per game, the third-best in the league. Matthew Tkachuk has been a standout, with a six-game point streak that includes five goals and 15 points. He was recently named the NHL‘s First Star of the Week for his impressive performance.

Sergei Bobrovsky, who returned from a brief absence for the birth of his second child, played a crucial role in the Panthers’ 3-1 win over the San Jose Sharks, stopping 29 of 30 shots. Despite his current 2.93 goals-against average and .894 save percentage, Bobrovsky’s performance is expected to be a key factor in the game against the Kraken.[

The Seattle Kraken, with a 14-14-1 record, have also shown resilience, particularly on their recent road trip where they won three out of four games against tough opponents like the Carolina Hurricanes, New York Islanders, and New York Rangers. The Kraken have a history of success against the Panthers, holding a 4-2 record since joining the league.[

Jared McCann and Brandon Montour are among the top performers for the Kraken, with McCann leading the team in points and Montour contributing significantly with his goals and assists. Goalie Joey Daccord has been solid for the Kraken, with a 2.50 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage.[

Predictions for the game lean towards a high-scoring affair, given the offensive prowess of both teams. The over/under is set at 6 goals, with many analysts favoring the over due to the consistent goal-scoring of both the Panthers and the Kraken.[

The betting odds have the Panthers as favorites, with a moneyline of -149 and a puck line of -1.5 (+130). However, the Kraken’s recent form and their history of upsetting favorites suggest that this game could be closely contested.[