2024 NHL Winter Classic Preview: Golden Knights vs. Kraken at T-Mobile Park
Updated on: December 29, 2023 / 10:31 AM

2024 NHL Winter Classic Preview: Vegas Golden Knights vs. Seattle Kraken at T-Mobile Park

As the excitement builds for the 2024 NHL Winter Classic, hockey fans are in for a treat with a historic first on January 1st at T-Mobile Park. This marquee event, featuring the Vegas Golden Knights and the Seattle Kraken, marks the first Winter Classic to be held on the American West Coast and the first between Pacific Division opponents.

  • Date and Time: January 1, 2024, at 8:00 PM ET.
  • Venue: T-Mobile Park in Seattle, Washington, USA.
  • Broadcast: In Canada, the game will be telecast on Sportsnet, and in the United States, it will be shown on TNT​​​​, truTV and MAX.

It's a significant moment for the NHL and its fans, as the Winter Classic is not just a game, but a celebrated tradition that harkens back to the sport's outdoor roots, evoking the nostalgic memories of pond hockey. Since its inception in 2008, the Winter Classic has become one of the NHL's premier events, drawing the highest attendance and television ratings, showcasing the league's most popular teams and players. This year's showdown in Seattle, with the retractable roof of T-Mobile Park set to shield players and fans from the city's notorious rain if needed, promises to be a spectacular blend of modern amenities and classic hockey heritage

Team Analysis

Vegas Golden Knights (22-10-5):

  • Offensive Strength: Averaging 3.32 goals per game (13th in NHL), the Golden Knights boast a strong offense. They also average 32.3 shots on goal per game, ranking 9th in this aspect.
  • Power Play and Faceoffs: With a 22.4% power play percentage (12th in NHL) and a 49.6% faceoff win rate, the team shows competency in special teams and puck possession.
  • Defensive Aspect: Defensively, they allow 2.76 goals per game (10th in NHL) and 30.1 shots on goal. Their penalty kill percentage stands at 81.5% (13th in NHL).

Seattle Kraken (13-14-9):

  • Offensive Challenges: Scoring 2.67 goals per game, the Kraken are ranked 28th in the NHL in goal-scoring, indicating a struggle in the offensive zone.
  • Defensive Concerns: Allowing 3.03 goals per game, they are ranked 12th in goals allowed. Their shots on goal allowed per game are 29.4.
  • Special Teams: Seattle's power play percentage is 20.4% (17th in NHL), and their penalty kill is at 79% (19th in NHL).
  • Faceoffs and Shooting: The Kraken have a 48.5% faceoff win rate and a shooting percentage of 9% (tied for 28th in the league).

Recent Form and Streaks:

  • The Golden Knights have a 5-5-0 record in their last 10 games with a current winning streak of 1.
  • The Kraken, showing better recent form, have a 5-2-3 record in their last 10 games and are currently on a 3-game winning streak​​.

Previous Matchup:

  • In their last encounter on October 10, 2023, the Golden Knights secured a decisive victory over the Kraken with a 4-1 scoreline​​.

Game Analysis: The Golden Knights enter this game with a potent offense and a relatively solid defense, making them formidable opponents. Their ability to control the puck and capitalize on power plays could be key factors. Conversely, the Kraken, despite recent form improvements, need to bolster their offense and tighten up defensively to counter the Golden Knights' attack. The Kraken's recent momentum and home advantage at T-Mobile Park might give them the edge they need in this clash. The previous matchup's outcome also suggests a competitive dynamic between these two teams.

Author: Dan Anderson