The NHL playoffs are in full swing, and the Colorado Avalanche and Seattle Kraken are set to face off in Game 3 of their first-round matchup on April 22nd. As the series shifts to Seattle, both teams will be looking to gain an advantage in what has been a tightly contested series so far.
The Avalanche, who finished the regular season with the best record in the league, came out on top in Game 1 with a 4-2 victory. However, the Kraken bounced back in Game 2 with a 5-3 win to even the series at one game apiece. With both teams showing they can win on any given night, Game 3 is shaping up to be a crucial matchup.
One of the key factors to watch in this game will be the play of the goaltenders. Colorado’s Philipp Grubauer has been outstanding all season, posting a 30-9-1 record with a 1.95 goals-against average and a .922 save percentage. He has continued his strong play in the playoffs, stopping 52 of 57 shots in the first two games of the series. On the other side, Seattle’s Chris Driedger has been solid as well, stopping 58 of 64 shots in his two starts. Both goaltenders will need to be at their best if their team hopes to come out on top in Game 3.
Another factor to watch will be special teams. The Avalanche had the league’s second-best power play during the regular season, converting on 22.7% of their opportunities. They have continued to be dangerous with the man advantage in the playoffs, scoring three power-play goals in the first two games of the series. The Kraken, meanwhile, have struggled on the penalty kill, allowing four power-play goals on eight opportunities. If Seattle can clean up their penalty kill, they could swing the momentum in their favor.
As for predictions, it’s tough to say who will come out on top in this matchup. Both teams have shown they can win, and it could come down to a bounce here or there. However, the oddsmakers currently have the Avalanche listed as -145 favorites to win Game 3, with the Kraken listed as +125 underdogs. The over/under for total goals scored is set at 5.5.
Ultimately, this is shaping up to be a must-watch game for NHL fans. With both teams fighting for every inch, it’s sure to be an intense and exciting matchup. Be sure to tune in on April 22nd to see who comes out on top in Game 3 of the Avalanche vs Kraken playoff series.