LiontipsSeattle vs St. Louis NHL Match Predictions and Betting Odds
Command Analysis
Current Form
The Kraken were clearly dissatisfied with last season's outcome, finishing 12th in the standings and missing out on the playoffs. The primary issue for the team was their lack of offensive production, averaging only 2.64 goals per game, one of the lowest figures in the league. Following this setback, head coach Dave Hakstol was replaced by Dan Bylsma, who previously coached the Coachella Valley. As expected, Seattle focused on strengthening their offensive lineup during the offseason, signing several forwards including Stevenson from Vegas, Steven from Montreal, and Myers from Anaheim.
However, the team did not perform well during preseason. In six exhibition games, they achieved just two victories against Vancouver (3-1) and Edmonton (6-2). It was only towards the end of the preseason that the team began to show more consistent scoring, leading to better results.
Injuries and Suspensions
One of Seattle's key forwards, Jared McCann, sustained an injury during preseason preparations, and it remains uncertain whether he will be available for the upcoming match. All other players are currently healthy.
Interesting Betting Trends
- Seattle averaged 2.64 goals per game last season
Despite efforts to bolster their attacking line, the Kraken seem likely to continue facing scoring challenges in the upcoming regular season based on their preseason performance.
- Seattle averaged eight minutes in penalties per game
The team remains one of the most disciplined in the league, which helps them avoid allowing a high number of goals.
Current Form
The St. Louis Blues, like the Seattle Kraken, were unable to compete for the Stanley Cup last season. Throughout the regular season, the team fought for a playoff spot but ultimately fell short by six points. The Blues' defense performed respectably, but they struggled significantly with creating and converting scoring opportunities. Over the offseason, it was expected that the team would acquire several skilled players, but the roster changes were minimal. The club added some less impactful forwards, including Alexandre Texier, Radek Faksa, and Matthew Joseph, who collectively totaled 85 points last season.
Given that the Blues have largely retained their previous roster, expecting extraordinary performances in the upcoming season seems unrealistic. This is further supported by their preseason results, where they managed only two victories out of seven games, both coming in overtime.
Injuries and Disqualifications
The St. Louis Blues face some lineup challenges. In the upcoming game, defensemen Torey Krug and Adam Erne are confirmed to be out, while Oscar Sundqvist's availability remains uncertain.
Interesting Betting Trends
- The St. Louis Blues averaged 28 shots per game
Last season, the Blues were not particularly aggressive, primarily focusing on their defensive play.
- The Blues converted just 23% of their power plays
One reason for the club's low scoring efficiency remains their poor conversion rate when playing with an extra man on the ice.
Trends
Bet First Goal: «Seattle»
In four out of five matchups, «Seattle» has scored first
1.78Bet Second Period: Total Over 1.5 Goals
In five out of six matchups, both teams scored more than one goal in the second period
1.60Tip and bets
Seattle is fortunate to kick off the regular season at home, where the team stands a good chance of starting with a win, backed by enthusiastic fans. The Kraken are on par with St. Louis, which has also shown mediocre performance during the preseason. It is important to note that the Blues particularly struggled on the road, failing to put up a strong resistance against their opponents and suffering heavy defeats in almost all their games. However, towards the end of the preseason, Bylsma’s squad began to showcase an offensive style of play, scoring a significant number of goals. This could pose a serious challenge for the Blues with their not-so-reliable defense. For these reasons, we recommend placing a bet in favor of the home team.
Our prediction is a victory for Seattle at 1.72
Total Bets
Both teams were among the least productive in the previous season and it's unlikely any significant changes will occur given only minor upgrades to their offensive lines. Therefore, for a second wager, we suggest opting for the total points to be under.
Prediction - total under six goals at 1.60
First Period Outcome Bet
Seattle, benefiting from home advantage, is likely to apply strong pressure on St. Louis from the beginning of the match, allowing them to secure an early lead.
Prediction - Seattle to win the first period with a no handicap at 1.70
