Seattle Kraken vs Ottawa Senators Betting Preview
The Seattle Kraken continue their early-season road trip as they visit the Ottawa Senators on Thursday, October 16, 2025. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET at Canadian Tire Centre, with coverage available on ESPN+.
Seattle (2-1-1) carries a season-opening four-game point streak into this matchup, while Ottawa (1-3-0) is looking to bounce back after a lopsided 8-4 defeat to the Buffalo Sabres on Wednesday night. The Senators have surrendered 18 goals over their last three games and now face a Kraken team that has found rhythm offensively.
Kraken Aiming to Extend Point Streak
The Kraken suffered their first loss in overtime Tuesday, falling 5-4 to the Montreal Canadiens. Despite the defeat, Seattle rallied from multiple deficits and showed strong offensive balance. Jared McCann scored again — giving him a goal in every game this season — and continues to pace Seattle’s attack with four points (three goals, one assist).
Goaltender Joey Daccord made 17 saves in Montreal and remains steady between the pipes. Seattle’s defense has been active and physical, logging 91 hits and 63 blocked shots through four games. The unit, anchored by Vince Dunn, has generated offensive production as well — Dunn has four points (one goal, three assists) and continues to lead the blue line effectively.
Coach Lane Lambert praised the team’s intensity and forecheck but emphasized the need to clean up small errors that have led to goals. With a deep lineup featuring Matty Beniers and Oliver Bjorkstrand supporting McCann, Seattle looks poised to continue earning points on this six-game road stretch.
Senators Searching for Defensive Stability
The Ottawa Senators return home after a frustrating stretch in which defensive breakdowns have plagued their early season. The 8-4 loss to Buffalo exposed communication issues and coverage lapses that Ottawa must fix quickly to avoid a deeper slide.
Thomas Chabot and Jake Sanderson each contributed offensively against the Sabres, but Ottawa’s defensive core has struggled to limit odd-man rushes. Goalie Leevi Merilainen allowed seven goals on 26 shots before being pulled, and Linus Ullmark is expected to get the start Thursday.
Offensively, the Senators have been aggressive, firing 131 shots and scoring 12 goals across four games. Shane Pinto leads the way with five goals, while Drake Batherson’s return from injury adds an important scoring boost. However, the absence of captain Brady Tkachuk (wrist) limits their top-line physicality and leadership.
Coach Travis Green emphasized staying unified and regaining defensive composure at home, where the Senators begin a four-game homestand.
Line Movement and Odds
Current Odds (via ScoresAndStats.com NHL Odds)
Seattle Kraken +121 (Moneyline)
Ottawa Senators -145 (Moneyline)
Puck Line: Seattle +1.5 (-207) / Ottawa -1.5 (+169)
Total: 5.5 (Over -124 / Under +102)
Ottawa has won the last two meetings between these teams by identical 3-0 scores, but Seattle’s improved depth and road momentum make this matchup far more even than the line suggests.
Matchup Breakdown
Seattle Kraken Outlook
The Kraken’s disciplined forecheck and balanced scoring across four lines have made them tough to contain. McCann and Beniers continue to drive play, while Dunn’s presence on the blue line gives Seattle a consistent power-play threat. If Daccord maintains his recent form, the Kraken are capable of grinding out another road win.
Ottawa Senators Outlook
For Ottawa, defensive structure is the key. The Senators can generate offense — especially through transition — but need Ullmark to deliver a stabilizing performance. Limiting turnovers in their own zone will be critical against Seattle’s aggressive puck pursuit.
Key Edge
Seattle’s consistency and defensive structure give them an advantage over an Ottawa team still searching for balance. The Kraken’s ability to control possession and limit second-chance opportunities could decide this one.
Betting Trends
Seattle is 3-0 on the puck line in its last three games.
Seattle has earned points in all four games this season (2-1-1).
Ottawa is 0-3 straight-up in its last three games.
The total has gone over in two of Ottawa’s last three contests.
Seattle’s last two games have gone to overtime.
Prediction and Best Bets
Seattle’s steady goaltending and structured playstyle should help it outlast an Ottawa team still tightening up defensively. Expect a fast-paced matchup with chances on both ends, but Seattle’s confidence and balance make them the better value on the road.
Projected Score: Seattle 4, Ottawa 3
Best Bet: Seattle +121 (Moneyline)
Secondary Lean: Over 5.5 (-124)
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