The Calgary Flames and Seattle Kraken are set to ignite the ice at the Climate Pledge Arena in what promises to be a Pacific Division brawl. Calgary, with their backs against the wall, is looking to snap a 6-game skid, while the Kraken aim to solidify their home ice. The Flames have been flickering with a 2-7-1 record, leaving much to be desired from their fans. Conversely, Seattle’s ship has been steadier, holding a 4-5-2 record as they look to hoist their sails higher in the standings.

Flames Fighting the Blaze

The Calgary Flames’ start to the season has been a cause for alarm, with the team’s performance needing to align with the high expectations set during the preseason. Their 2-7-1 record is a testament to the issues plaguing the team, particularly on offense, where they average a mere 2.20 goals per game. Although Elias Lindholm has been a consistent producer, tallying 8 points (2 goals, six assists), the Flames need more players to step up and contribute on the scoreboard. Andrew Mangiapane, leading in goals, has netted only four thus far, and while that leads his team, it’s a far cry from the league’s top scorers.

Goaltending, usually the backbone of the team, has been lackluster. Jacob Markstrom’s GAA of 3.03 and SV% of .897 do not reflect the caliber expected of him. Backup Dan Vladar has not fared any better, with numbers that point to an even greater struggle between the pipes. This tandem needs to find its form swiftly, as the Flames are allowing an average of 3.70 goals per game, an unsustainable rate if they hope to climb out of the Pacific Division’s basement. However, the Flames’ penalty kill has been a silver lining, with a robust 91.4% effectiveness among the league’s best. This particular team’s prowess must be a foundation they build upon to reverse their fortunes.

Historically, the Flames have been a team that thrives on their work ethic and physical play, but the current season has seen a dip in those areas. The team’s ability to bounce back from adversity will be tested. The Flames have shown resilience in the past, and while their current state is concerning, it’s within them to catch fire and start climbing the standings. This upcoming game against Seattle is not just another match; it’s a critical juncture that could define the rest of their season.

Calgary Flames Team Facts

• The Flames have lost each of their last six games.
• The Flames have failed to cover the puck line in eight of their last nine games.
• The Flames have lost the first period in each of their last five night games following a home loss.
• The ‘Over 2.5 Goals Period 1′ market has hit in four of the Flames’ last five games as underdogs against Pacific Division opponents.

Kraken Craving Consistency

Seattle Kraken’s sophomore season has been a roller coaster of highs and lows. Their 4-5-2 record indicates a team still finding its identity, yet there’s an undeniable spark that could ignite at any moment. The Kraken’s offensive efforts have been led by Jared McCann, who has tallied six goals, showing flashes of the goal-scoring prowess they need. Vince Dunn has been a playmaking force from the blue line, leading the team with seven assists, showcasing the kind of all-team effort that’s essential for sustained success.

Between the pipes, Philipp Grubauer and Joey Daccord have been splitting duties, with Grubauer posting a 2.83 GAA and .909 SV% and Daccord slightly better at 2.88 GAA and .912 SV%. These numbers are respectable but must improve if the Kraken wish to be playoff contenders. The Kraken’s power play has been a weapon, operating at an impressive 25% efficiency, but the team’s penalty kill has been porous, only succeeding 74.2% of the time. This special teams imbalance is something they must address, as it could be their downfall in tight games.

The Kraken’s performance trend has been one of gradual improvement, but consistency is the key they’re still searching for. They’ve shown they can score goals but tend to give up just as many. If the Kraken can tighten their defense and improve their penalty kill, they can potentially be a dark horse in the Pacific Division. This upcoming battle with the Flames represents a chance to solidify their status and demonstrate that they can not only weather the storm but can also harness it to their advantage. The Kraken’s ability to consistently execute their game plan and capitalize on their opponent’s weaknesses will be critical as they strive to keep their heads above the divisional standings.

Seattle Kraken Team Facts

• The Kraken have lost seven of their last eight night games against Western Conference opponents.
• The Kraken have covered the puck line in each of their last five games.
• The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 2’ market has hit in each of the Kraken’s last eight home games against Western Conference opponents.
• The favorites have won the third period in each of the Kraken’s last six games.

Matchup/League Facts

• The Seattle Kraken ranks 27th in the league for goals per game this season (2.55).
• The Seattle Kraken ranks 25th in the league in penalty kill percentage this season (74.19%).
• The Calgary Flames ranks 29th in the league for goals against per game this season (3.70).
• The Calgary Flames ranks 4th in the league in penalty kill percentage this season (91.43%).

David´s Pick – Calgary Flames (+109)

The Flames are under fire and desperate to extinguish their losing streak. Despite their recent form, they have the depth and talent to turn the tide, especially against a Kraken team with penalty-kill vulnerabilities. Markstrom is due for a standout performance, and with the Flames’ penalty kill strength, I expect them to challenge the Kraken’s special teams effectively. Seattle’s inconsistency and Calgary’s urgency make the Flames the pick, albeit with caution, as they are on the cusp of either breakdown or breakthrough. It’s time for Calgary to reignite their season, and this matchup will be the spark they need.