Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The Boston Bruins are set for an away back-to-back following their comeback victory over the Detroit Red Wings (3:2 OT). The Bruins twice came from behind but secured two points thanks to Pavel Zacha's (6+6) overtime goal. Up next is a meeting with the Chicago Blackhawks, who are in the midst of a three-game losing streak.
Chicago Blackhawks
In their recent game against the Toronto Maple Leafs (1:4), the Blackhawks were let down once again by a lack of quality finishers. They attacked actively and created more opportunities but converted only 3.5% of their shots. This is a recurring issue; in 5-on-5 situations, the hosts rank 29th in the league with a 7.4% shooting percentage. There are also questions about the coaching staff's decisions. For example, Philipp Kurashev continues to play on the top line with Connor Bedard despite having just five points and a team-worst minus-21 rating.
Boston Bruins
Capitalising on opportunities is crucial against the Bruins, as they don't allow much near their net. Since Joe Sacco took charge, opponents have averaged only 2.03 xG against them—the best rate over this period. Furthermore, Joonas Korpisalo was in goal against the Detroit Red Wings, so it's likely Jeremy Swayman's turn. Since the coaching change, Swayman has saved over 92.9% of shots in three out of four starts.
Chicago Blackhawks vs Boston Bruins Prediction
Since Joe Sacco's arrival, the Boston Bruins have conceded more than two goals only twice. The Chicago Blackhawks, who average just under two and a half goals per game this season, will struggle against such a suffocating defence. Therefore, we'll go with the hosts' individual total.
