Seattle Kraken vs Philadelphia Flyers Picks and Predictions October 17th 2024

Flyers, Rising Star Matvei Michkov Wrap Road Trip at Seattle

As the Philadelphia Flyers conclude their four-game road trip on Thursday against the Seattle Kraken, all eyes are on 19-year-old forward Matvei Michkov, who’s quickly emerging as one of the NHL’s most exciting rookies. With the Flyers looking to bounce back after a tough overtime loss, Michkov is leading the charge.

Michkov’s Early Impact

Michkov was already pegged as a Calder Trophy favorite before the season, and he’s proving why. In the Flyers’ 4-3 overtime loss to the Edmonton Oilers, Michkov lit the lamp twice, both on the power play, marking his first two NHL goals. Now with three points in three games, Michkov is showing he’s a force to be reckoned with.

Garnet Hathaway, a Flyers forward, praised Michkov’s enthusiasm, saying, “You love it, and he brings it every day… He’s got more confidence, and that’s going to help him build his game.”

Michkov’s journey to the Flyers was anything but certain. Despite his talent, he slipped to the seventh pick in the 2023 NHL Draft due to his contract ties to the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). But after securing a buyout of his KHL deal, the Flyers swooped in, and they’re now reaping the benefits of his arrival.

Flyers coach John Tortorella has been impressed, noting Michkov’s knack for finding scoring areas and his impact on the power play. “He likes to score. He’s helping our power play. He’s a dynamic guy,” said Tortorella.

Kraken’s Return Home After Successful Road Trip

Meanwhile, the Seattle Kraken are riding high after wrapping up a successful 2-1-0 road trip, capping it off with a commanding 7-3 win over the Nashville Predators. Seattle’s offense came alive, especially in the third period, where they poured in four goals.

Chandler Stephenson chipped in two assists in the win, while his linemates Jaden Schwartz and Oliver Bjorkstrand each contributed a goal and an assist. Stephenson, reflecting on the team’s growing chemistry, said, “We’re more familiar with one another now, and Ollie is just a world-class shooter.”

The Kraken also got a lift with the return of defenseman Vince Dunn, who missed the previous game with an injury but looked sharp against Nashville.

Key Matchups and What to Watch

1. Matvei Michkov vs. Kraken Defense

Michkov comes into this game on a high, and Seattle’s defense, led by Vince Dunn, will need to keep him in check, especially when the Flyers have the man advantage.

2. Kraken’s Balanced Offense

Seattle’s strength lies in their depth, with multiple lines contributing to their offensive output. With Schwartz, Bjorkstrand, and Stephenson all clicking, they’ll look to keep the pressure on Philly’s defense.

3. Flyers’ Special Teams

The Flyers’ power play has thrived with Michkov at the helm, and they’ll need to continue that success to counter Seattle’s scoring threats.

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Game Outlook

This matchup features two teams brimming with offensive potential. Michkov will look to add to his early-season success, while the Kraken will aim to build off their big win in Nashville. Expect a game filled with high-paced action and plenty of scoring chances.

Prediction: Kraken 4, Flyers 3

With both teams finding their offensive rhythm, this game could go either way. However, Seattle’s balanced scoring and home-ice advantage might be the difference in this exciting contest. Expect a close, high-energy battle that could come down to the wire.