NHL Game Preview: Chicago Blackhawks at Seattle Kraken

Game: Chicago Blackhawks vs. Seattle Kraken

Date: Friday, November 3, 2023

Time: 10:00 PM EST

Location: Climate Pledge Arena, Seattle, WA

Tale of the Tape

The rebuilding Chicago Blackhawks travel to the Pacific Northwest to take on a Seattle Kraken team looking to defend home ice. The Kraken enter the contest as firm home favorites, but injuries to key players could even the odds against a young Blackhawks squad led by a generational talent.

Odds Breakdown

Chicago Blackhawks: +128
Seattle Kraken: -154

The moneyline odds indicate that the Seattle Kraken are the favorites to win. A $154 bet on the Kraken would be needed to win $100. The Blackhawks are the underdogs, with a $100 bet on Chicago returning a $128 profit if they pull off the upset.

Chicago Blackhawks Preview

The Blackhawks continue their rebuild, centered around rookie phenom Connor Bedard. While the team’s record reflects its developmental phase, they have the potential to be a dangerous opponent on any given night, largely thanks to the game-breaking ability of their young star. Chicago will look to leverage its speed and youthful energy to catch the Kraken off guard.

According to a recent report from July 2025, goalie Laurent Brossoit’s absence was expected to extend into the new season after knee surgery, meaning he will not be a factor. Bettors should monitor the team’s official injury report closer to game time for any other last-minute updates.

Seattle Kraken Preview

The Kraken aim to establish themselves as a consistent playoff contender and have shown they can be a formidable force, especially at Climate Pledge Arena. However, their offense will be tested as they are dealing with significant injuries.

Most notably, forward Jared McCann is on Injured Reserve. His absence removes a critical goal-scoring threat from the lineup. Additionally, defenseman Ryker Evans has been skating in a non-contact jersey with an upper-body injury as of late October, making his status for this game questionable. Seattle will need its depth players to step up and provide offensive support to overcome these key losses.

Prediction

This matchup presents an interesting dynamic. The Kraken are the better team on paper and have a distinct home-ice advantage. However, the loss of a top offensive player like Jared McCann cannot be overstated and significantly hampers their scoring potential.

The Blackhawks, while clear underdogs, have a wildcard in Connor Bedard who can single-handedly influence the outcome. If Seattle’s offense sputters without McCann, it opens the door for Chicago to steal a close, low-scoring game.

Despite the key injury, Seattle’s overall structure and defensive system should be enough to contain the young Blackhawks. Expect a tight contest, but the Kraken’s experience and home crowd will likely be the deciding factors. The value is tempting on the underdog Blackhawks due to the Kraken’s injuries, but the safer bet is on the home team.

Prediction: Seattle Kraken 3, Chicago Blackhawks 2