Chicago Blackhawks (14-30-2) vs. Seattle Kraken (19-17-9)
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Seattle Kraken 1/24/24 – As the Chicago Blackhawks prepare to face off against the Seattle Kraken on January 24, 2024, the NHL daily predictions are abuzz with expectations. The Blackhawks, with a record of 14-30-2, are struggling to find their footing this season, while the Kraken, at 19-17-9, are showing more resilience. Set in the backdrop of the Climate Pledge Arena with coverage on TNT, this matchup promises to be a critical juncture in the NHL regular season for both teams.
The Blackhawks offense, while not reaching its full potential, has shown flashes of brilliance. Led by team leaders Nick Foligno and Jason Dickinson, their offense can penetrate Kraken defense with Foligno’s experience and Dickinson’s 21.4 shooting percentage being key elements in breaking down Kraken defensive strategies. Furthermore, their power play opportunities offer them a competitive edge to gain an edge against Kraken.
Conversely, Seattle Kraken’s offense led by Oliver Bjorkstrand and Jared McCann is an immediate threat to Chicago Blackhawks’ defense. Bjorkstrand’s balanced play and McCann’s 16.1% shooting percentage could exploit any weaknesses in their defensive lineup while their power play unit bolstered by Jared McCann’s seven power play goals could take advantage of any miscues by Blackhawks penalty kill unit.
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Seattle Kraken 1/24/24 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Climate Pledge Arena |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Petr Mrazek vs. Goaltender Joey Daccord
Petr Mrazek has struggled in net for the Blackhawks this season. In 31 games played, he has a record of just 12-16-3 along with a 3.04 GAA and a .906 save percentage. Mrazek has faced over 30 shots per game and Chicago’s poor defense has left him vulnerable far too often. He has allowed 3+ goals in 5 of his last 7 starts. While Seattle’s offense isn’t formidable, expect them to be able to get pucks past Mrazek.
On the other side, Joey Daccord has been strong between the pipes for Seattle. In 29 games played, Daccord has gone 13-7-8 with an impressive 2.35 GAA and .922 save percentage. The 25-year old has given up just 2 goals or fewer in 4 of his last 6 starts, showing his consistency. His play is a big reason why the Kraken allow just 2.71 goals per game. If Daccord keeps up his solid tendy work, Chicago will have a very difficult time scoring on him even in Seattle’s home arena. Daccord has the edge over the struggling Mrazek in this goaltender matchup.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds are TBD, it’s challenging to pinpoint a clear favorite. However, the trends suggest that the Kraken might have a slight edge due to their better overall record and stronger defensive play. Bettors should keep an eye on the moneyline and puckline as they become available to gauge the market sentiment.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Trends
The Blackhawks are 2-8 straight up in their last ten contests, including five of those losses coming on the road. Chicago also posts a poor 8-16 road record against the spread this season. Chicago’s recent games finished under the projected total. Given Seattle allows the 9th fewest goals per game, the under 6.5 projection in this matchup also seems likely to hit.
Seattle Kraken Betting Trends
Meanwhile, Seattle won four of their last ten matches. More impressively, they sport a 16-9 home record against the spread this season. The Kraken also play tight defensive games, with under hitting in nine of their last 15 home contests. Both teams struggle scoring goals lately, so Seattle’s defensive edge gives them an advantage. Betting Kraken on the puck line means they only need a two-goal win to cover. Their defense should contain Chicago’s hapless offense at home.
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Seattle Kraken 1/24/24 Betting Picks
In conclusion, this game presents a nuanced picture. The Blackhawks, with their back against the wall, might come out fighting, while the Kraken will look to capitalize on their home advantage and stronger defensive setup. This matchup could be closer than the records suggest.
In terms of top multi-handicapper picks, recent forms and strengths, the Kraken seem to be the safer bet, especially with their defensive edge and goaltending stability. However, the Blackhawks’ potential for an upset, particularly if their offense clicks, cannot be ignored. For prop bets, focusing on individual player performances like McCann’s goal-scoring or Mrazek’s saves could be intriguing. The over/under will be particularly interesting, given the Kraken’s recent high-scoring home games.
Free Pick and Prediction: Seattle Kraken 3, Chicago Blackhawks 2