Philadelphia Flyers vs Vancouver Canucks prediction 10-17-23 NHL Picks

Get ready for an epic showdown as the Vancouver Canucks (2-0-0, 2nd in Pacific Division) face off against the Philadelphia Flyers (1-1-0, 4th in Metropolitan Division). While the Canucks are on fire with back-to-back wins, the Flyers are eager to bounce back from a recent loss. This highly-anticipated matchup promises to be a thrilling battle that no hockey fan should miss.

Canucks Dominating the Ice

The Vancouver Canucks have had an explosive start to the season, boasting an impressive 2-0-0 record. In their recent 4-3 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, goalie Casey DeSmith made his Canucks debut, stopping an impressive 37 shots and proving his ability to perform under pressure. DeSmith, with a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.51 and a save percentage (SV%) of .933, is already proving to be a valuable asset for the team. It’s important to note that DeSmith shares the net with Thatcher Demko, who also showcases his skills with a 1.25 GAA and .955 SV%. This goaltending duo provides the Canucks with depth and options as the season progresses.

Leading the charge in goals is Brock Boeser with four, while eight other players have each scored a goal. Elias Pettersson leads the team in assists and points with five assists and six points.

The Canucks’ power play has been exceptional, scoring 44.4% of the time they have the man-advantage, resulting in four power play goals in just two games. Additionally, the team has successfully killed five of the seven penalties against an Oilers power play. This resilience in penalty-killing situations could prove to be a significant asset as they face off against teams with strong power play units.

Another noteworthy trend is the Canucks’ ability to maintain leads. In both their games, they have secured an early advantage and held onto it, showcasing maturity and effective game management. As they prepare to face the Flyers, the Canucks will aim to continue these positive trends while addressing any weaknesses in their game.

Notable Vancouver Canucks Facts

• The Canucks have won their last four games.
• The underdogs have covered the puck line in each of the Canucks’ last six games at Wells Fargo Center.
• The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 1′ market has hit in each of the Canucks’ last eight games against Metropolitan Division opponents.
• The Canucks have won the first period in seven of their last eight games.

Flyers Seeking Redemption

The Philadelphia Flyers find themselves in a challenging position after a 5-2 loss to the Ottawa Senators. While this defeat was a setback, it also provided valuable lessons for the team. Carter Hart, the Flyers’ goalie, has a solid GAA of 2.00 but will need to improve his save percentage, currently at .891.

Travis Konecny has been a standout player for the Flyers with three goals. Konecny’s scoring ability will be crucial for the Flyers, especially if they find themselves trailing and in need of quick goals. Scott Laughton and Travis Sanheim each have two assists, leading the Flyers in that category.

The Flyers’ special teams performance will be under scrutiny in this matchup. Their recent game against the Senators raised questions about their effectiveness on both power plays and penalty kills. Overall, the Flyers have scored on only 11.1% of their power play opportunities and have a 66.7% success rate in penalty kill situations.

One area the Flyers will want to improve upon is their performance in the third period. In their loss to the Senators, they were outscored and seemed to lose momentum as the game progressed. Enhancing their late-game performance will be crucial, especially against a Canucks team known for maintaining leads.

Notable Philadelphia Flyers Facts

• The Flyers have lost their last 10 night games following a road loss.
• The Flyers have failed to cover the puck line in their last seven games following a road loss.
• The Flyers have lost the second period in their last seven games following a road loss.
• The ‘Over 2.5 Goals Period 1′ market has hit in each of the Flyers’ last four games.

Matchup/League Facts

• The Philadelphia Flyers rank tied for 1st in the league in short-handed goals allowed this season (0).
• The Philadelphia Flyers were one of only two teams to sweep the Blue Jackets this season.
• The Vancouver Canucks rank 1st in the league for goals per game this season (6.00).
• The Vancouver Canucks rank 1st in the league in power play percentage this season (44.44%).

David’s Pick – Vancouver Canucks (-116)

With the Canucks in top form, it’s clear they are the team to beat. Although the Flyers have the talent to make this a close contest, the Canucks have the edge in goaltending and a more consistent offense. As the Flyers strive to find their rhythm, I expect the Canucks to seize this opportunity and come out victorious. Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, but the Canucks seem better poised to take control. So, whether you’re looking to place a bet or simply enjoy an intense hockey game, this is definitely one to watch.