Utah vs Chicago

Connor Bedard hopes to light a spark for the Blackhawks, but the team enters this clash on a frustrating two-game skid and faces a Utah squad that comes in with renewed momentum. With a key Chicago defenseman still nursing an upper-body injury, the holes on their blue line have shown against other Central Division rivals. Utah, on the other hand, is riding a modest winning streak that has carried over from impressive performances, including solid road wins against top conference foes. Historically, Utah's physical style has posed problems for Chicago, which could foreshadow another tough outing for the Blackhawks. The recommended moneyline pick here is Utah at -170, graded a B+ for its combination of likely success and balanced return on investment.

Connor Bedard, newly anchoring the Chicago Blackhawks roster, will be itching to snap his team’s current four-game slide against a Utah Hockey Club riding a modest two-game winning streak. With injury concerns hovering over Tyler Johnson (upper body) for Chicago, the Blackhawks’ blue line, already stretched thin, could struggle to contain Utah’s offensive bursts. Historically, the Blackhawks have often stumbled against Western Conference squads when playing on the road, further suggesting a more open-ice contest. This Over 6 pick earns an A- grade: it carries a solid payout potential if the squads turn the match into a goal-filled shootout.

Connor Bedard has been a bright spot for the struggling Blackhawks, but the team’s ongoing four-game skid could overshadow his efforts against a Utah squad carrying a modest two-game surge. Chicago’s blue line remains hampered by injuries on key defenders, potentially opening scoring lanes for Utah’s top forwards. Historically, the Blackhawks falter when they face disciplined defensive teams from the Western Conference, and Utah’s record-breaking penalty-kill rate this season may tilt the puck possession battle. Despite Chicago’s home-ice advantage, the safer puckline play hinges on Utah’s steady defense and opportunistic offense, earning a B grade for its strong likelihood of hitting and decent payoff if it stands.