Chicago vs San Jose

Connor Bedard continues to lead Chicago, despite the Blackhawks dragging a two-game losing streak into this matchup. Meanwhile, the Sharks enter on a three-game skid, with a notable absence on their blue line adding further challenges. Historically, Chicago has shown just enough spark on West Coast trips to edge out teams in the same conference, giving them a slight edge here. While neither side boasts a dominant record, the underwhelming offensive output from San Jose and the returning depth for Chicago hint that taking the Blackhawks at -110 carries fair odds. We grade this pick a B for reasonably strong confidence and a decent monetary payoff if it hits.

Chicago’s top line has battled inconsistency all season, and their current two-game losing streak only compounds the offensive struggles affecting them down the stretch. Meanwhile, the Sharks are mired in a three-game slump of their own, and they may be without one of their key forwards, who faces a lingering lower-body concern that has hampered the team’s overall attack. Adding to the challenge, these two squads historically grind out tight, methodical matchups, which often keeps the goal count low in Western Conference competition. Betting Under 6 offers a modest payout and carries a reasonable likelihood of cashing, thus earning a respectable B+ recommendation.

Connor Bedard has been the brightest spot on a Chicago squad desperate to snap its current three-game losing streak, while San Jose, stuck in a five-game skid, grapples with a depleted offense due to key injuries like Logan Couture’s lower-body setback. Historically, the Blackhawks have fared favorably on the road against Western Conference foes, giving them a slight edge heading into this matchup. Taking Chicago on the puckline offers a decent payout for risk-takers, earning this pick a solid B rating.