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NHL Betting Previews | Spooky Express
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NHL Betting Picks and Predictions: Dallas Stars vs. Seattle Kraken

December 18, 2023



On Monday, December 18, at 8:00 PM ET, witness an exhilarating NHL showdown at the American Airlines Center as the Seattle Kraken (10-14-8) go head-to-head with the Dallas Stars (17-8-4). The Stars maintain a moderate edge with a -190 moneyline, providing an enticing betting prospect.

Seattle Kraken Betting Preview

The Kraken just had their two-game win streak snapped with their latest defeat. This was a 3-2 shootout against the Los Angeles Kings. In their recent two wins, they put up 11 goals and only allowed one total.

 

For a team that struggles offensively, they have quality leaders on the roster to land plenty of scoring opportunities. This includes Oliver Bjorkstrand (25 points), Jared McCann (14 goals), and Vince Dunn (21 assists). 

 

So far, they are averaging 2.69 goals and take 29.9 shots each game. They have solid numbers in power play performances, with 21 goals scored and 20 allowed. They currently sport a power play percentage at 21.4, which is competitive with the Stars.

 

The Kraken’s defense is another story, as they allow 3.16 goals and 28.6 shots from opponents per game. Their penalty kill percentage comes in at 77.8, which is slightly lower than the Kraken.

Dallas Stars Betting Preview

The Stars are 3-2 over their last five games and are coming off a 4-3 overtime defeat to the St. Louis Blues.

 

This defeat put an end to their previous momentum of two games won. Looking at their three wins in this five game stretch, they have scored five or more goals during those.

 

Joe Pavelski has been a threat to other teams defenses with his quality work. He currently leads the Stars with 27 points and 13 goals. Jason Robertson has also pitched in 18 goals.

 

The Stars put together 3.48 goals a game and fire off 29.5 shots. They have done exceptionally well in power play situations, as they have scored a total of 21 goals and allowed 13. Their power play percentage comes in at 24.4, which is a slight edge over the Kraken.

 

They are keeping teams around 3.14 goals and 31.1 shots each game, which is not a big advantage over the Kraken. They also put up an appealing penalty kill percentage of 86.2.

Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

MyBookie proposes a closely fought contest, indicating that the Dallas Stars are moderate home favorites based on current odds. Considering their recent performances, the Stars have a promising chance to rebound.


  • Seattle Kraken: +160

  • Dallas Stars: -190

This matchup is arguably closer than the odds show, as the Stars do not have a large margin for victory. But with the Kraken’s issues offensively throughout this season, it makes sense to pick the more established team.

Final Pick: Dallas Stars -190