Seattle Kraken (12-14-9) vs. Calgary Flames (14-15-5)
Seattle Kraken vs. Calgary Flames 12/27/23 – In a pivotal regular-season NHL matchup, the Seattle Kraken, with a record of 12-14-9, square off against the Calgary Flames, who stand at 14-15-5, on Wednesday, December 27, 2023. This game, set to take place at the Scotiabank Saddledome and aired on ESPN+, presents a closely contested battle between two teams striving to improve their standings. Fans and bettors looking for top free NHL predictions will find this game particularly intriguing, given the similar trajectories of both teams this season.
The Seattle Kraken’s offense has shown flashes of promise this season, led by Vince Dunn’s 28 points (including 18 assists). Right wings Oliver Bjorkstrand and Eeli Tolvanen have also played key roles. Unfortunately for Seattle though, Calgary Flames defense has been fairly consistent despite some inconsistencies; therefore limiting Seattle scoring chances on power play will ultimately decide the game’s outcome.
Calgary Flames boast an effective offensive unit led by Blake Coleman, Nazem Kadri, and Elias Lindholm – who all possess all-around playing styles with Kadri’s playmaking abilities and Lindholm’s knack for scoring key goals – that can present formidable problems to Seattle Kraken defense. Seattle must especially keep an eye out for Calgary’s power play and shorthanded situations where Calgary excels.
Seattle Kraken vs. Calgary Flames 12/27/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at 9:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Scotiabank Saddledome |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Joey Daccord vs. Goaltender Jacob Markstrom
Joey Daccord has posted respectable numbers in minimal action for Seattle this season. Through 21 appearances, he’s compiled a .912 save percentage and 2.53 goals against average. However, Daccord hasn’t faced an offense with the high-end talent that Calgary boasts. Going on the road in a hostile environment, he could easily wilt under the pressure. If Daccord allows more than three goals, Seattle likely gets blown out given their scoring difficulties of late. The Kraken need their backup netminder to channel his best self to even keep this close.
After excelling last season, Jacob Markstrom strangely regressed mightily in the early going. His performance fell well short of expectations for a goaltender in the presumed prime of his career. Markstrom allowed three or more goals in eight of his first 16 starts, getting pulled twice in that span. Conceding soft goals and fighting the puck, he appeared a shell of himself. However, Markstrom showed noticeable improvements in December following some mental health time off. The chances of Markstrom recapturing his past dominance improve markedly backstopping the Flames attack on home ice. Seattle’s pedestrian offense shouldn’t seriously threaten his confidence if focused.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Calgary Flames -130, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds slightly favor the Calgary Flames, reflecting their marginally better season record and home-ice advantage. However, with the Kraken not far behind in terms of performance, the game presents a potentially tight contest. Bettors might find value in exploring the underdog potential of the Kraken or looking into the total goals market, once the odds are available.
Seattle Kraken Betting Trends
The Kraken have faceplanted recently versus Calgary, going 1-8 straight up over the past nine meetings. Seattle has also dropped five of their last seven road tests overall. Additionally, four of the Kraken’s previous six matchups with Pacific foes finished under the total. Given the Flames’ defensive metrics, playing unders could pay dividends tonight.
Calgary Flames Betting Trends
While four of their last five overall finished under the number, Calgary’s offense awakens facing Seattle, hitting overs in five of the past six collisions. The Flames also thrive in Wednesday contests, boasting a superb 15-5 SU record across their previous 20 such matchups. Signs point to Calgary finally erupting offensively in this spot after recent struggles.
Seattle Kraken vs. Calgary Flames 12/27/23 Betting Picks
Analyzing the trends and performances, this game appears to be a closely matched contest. The Flames, with their slight edge in the standings and historical performance against the Kraken, might be the safer bet. However, the Kraken’s potential to upset, especially with Daccord in goal, should not be underestimated.
For those looking for premium matchup selections, this game offers an interesting dynamic. Prop bets on individual player performances or the total goals market could provide additional betting opportunities. The Kraken, as underdogs, might offer value, while the Flames’ consistency, especially in home games, makes them a reliable choice.
Free Pick and Prediction: Calgary Flames 3, Seattle Kraken 2