The Vancouver Canucks (27-20-11) are set to face the Seattle Kraken (25-31-4) at Climate Pledge Arena on March 1, with puck drop scheduled for 10:00 PM ET. This Pacific Division matchup carries significant implications, as the Canucks aim to solidify their playoff position while the Kraken look to regain form and play spoiler. Here’s a detailed preview:
Team Form and Recent Performances
- Vancouver Canucks: The Canucks are battling for the second Wild Card spot in the Western Conference but have struggled for consistency. They have only two wins in their last five games, including a 5-2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks in their most recent outing. Vancouver has been solid on the road this season, holding a 16-11-4 record, and will look to close out their five-game road trip on a high note.
- Seattle Kraken: The Kraken are on a two-game losing streak, having suffered a 7-2 defeat to the St. Louis Blues in their last game. Seattle has been inconsistent at home, with a 13-14-4 record, and is currently seventh in the Pacific Division. Despite their struggles, the Kraken have shown resilience, with nine players scoring double-digit goals this season.
Key Players to Watch
- Vancouver Canucks: Quinn Hughes continues to be a standout performer, leading the team with 60 points (14 goals, 46 assists). Jake DeBrusk has also been impactful, with 21 goals and 14 assists, including key contributions in previous matchups against Seattle. Goaltender Kevin Lankinen is expected to start and has been reliable, with a 20-9-7 record and a 2.50 GAA this season.
- Seattle Kraken: Jared McCann leads the Kraken with 43 points (19 goals, 24 assists), while Chandler Stephenson and Oliver Bjorkstrand have also been key contributors. Joey Daccord is likely to start in goal, boasting a 20-15-3 record with a .914 save percentage and a 2.55 GAA.
Head-to-Head and Historical Context
- This will be the third meeting between the two teams this season. Both previous games went to overtime, with each team securing one win. Vancouver holds an all-time record of 8-4-1 against Seattle, showcasing their dominance in this budding rivalry. The Canucks won the most recent matchup 4-3 in a shootout, with Jake DeBrusk playing a pivotal role.
Game Dynamics and Strategies
- The Canucks will aim to tighten up defensively and capitalize on their power play, which has been a strength this season. Their ability to control the pace of the game and limit turnovers will be crucial.
- The Kraken, on the other hand, will look to exploit Vancouver’s recent defensive lapses. Seattle’s depth scoring and ability to generate offense from multiple lines could be key factors in this matchup.
Vancouver Canucks 5.5
Seattle Kraken – 118
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 28, 2025
