Vancouver Canucks (19-9-1) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (9-18-1)
As the NHL regular season winds its way towards completion, an intriguing matchup will unfold this Sunday at the United Center. The Vancouver Canucks (with a 19-9-1 record) are scheduled to meet up against Chicago Blackhawks (9-18-1 standings). This game, airing live at 3:00 PM ET on NHL TV, should draw considerable interest among both fans and bettors looking for NHL free picks.
The Canucks boast one of the most potent offenses in hockey, led by centers J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson. Miller is having an MVP-caliber season with 15 goals and 27 assists, using his playmaking ability to set up teammates with ease. Pettersson is a sniper who already has 11 goals on just 66 shots. They present major issues for a Blackhawks defense that has struggled badly this year. Unless their defense tightens up, expect the Canucks to light the lamp multiple times.
On offense, the Blackhawks are paced by 12-goal scorer Connor Bedard. The rookie phenom has shown flashes of brilliance but lacks consistency on a weaker team. Veterans like Jason Dickinson and Philipp Kurashev provide secondary scoring but likely won’t threaten an organized Canucks defense enough. Goaltending has also been a sore spot for Chicago this season. Though they have talent up front, this unit as a whole seems overmatched by Vancouver.
Vancouver Canucks vs. Chicago Blackhawks Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 3:00 PM ET |
| Where: | United Center |
| TV: | NHL |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Thatcher Demko vs. Goaltender Petr Mrazek
In net for Vancouver is Thatcher Demko, who has compiled a 14-7 record along with a 2.42 GAA. Demko has shown the ability to steal games at times thanks to his quick reflexes and composure under pressure. He should have the edge over a Blackhawks attack that is 23rd in the NHL in goals per game. As long as Demko plays an average game, the Canucks should find success limiting Chicago’s opportunities.
Between the pipes for the Blackhawks is veteran Petr Mrazek, who owns a disappointing 3.09 GAA through 17 starts. Mrazek will need to channel his best performances to give Chicago a chance, but the odds seem stacked against him. Though capable of impressive streaks of play, Mrazek’s inconsistency and propensity for allowing soft goals make it difficult to imagine he’ll shut down Vancouver’s multifaceted offense.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but given the current standings and team performances, the Canucks are likely to be favored. Bettors should keep an eye on the puck line and moneyline as they become available for more precise betting strategies.
Vancouver Canucks Betting Trends
The Canucks have excelled against the spread recently, covering in 5 straight contests. They’ve been nearly unbeatable away from home, going 9-5 ATS on the road this season. Unders have hit in 4 of Vancouver’s past 5 overall, but they’ve been more of an over team in away matchups. All signs point toward their offense staying hot against a weak Chicago defense.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Trends
Despite their disappointing record, Chicago has actually outperformed betting expectations with a 15-12 ATS record. They’ve been especially solid at home, covering the number in 6 of their 13 games at the United Center. Totals have gone over in 3 of their last 5 contests. However, the Blackhawks will be hard-pressed to keep pace with Vancouver’s elite firepower.
Vancouver Canucks vs. Chicago Blackhawks 12/17/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, the Canucks seem to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their strong offensive and defensive capabilities, coupled with the Blackhawks’ inconsistencies, make them a safer bet. However, the unpredictable nature of hockey means that an upset is never off the table, especially in a high-stakes regular-season game.
In conclusion, the Canucks appear to be the better pick for this game. Prop bets on key players like Miller and Hughes might be worth considering, given their current form. The over/under will depend on the total odds released, but the Canucks’ recent trend suggests a potential for high-scoring games. Bettors looking for top live betting websites should monitor the odds and team news closely as the game approaches.
