Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the NHL match.
Chicago Blackhawks
The team enters the game on the back of a 3-game losing streak, where they scored only 1 goal in each of these matches. In terms of points earned at home, the Americans are the worst in the conference. In the overall Western Conference standings, they are in 15th place, trailing only San Jose in the race for the 1st overall draft pick. The team is also second to last in both goals scored and goals conceded. The average total in games involving Chicago is exactly 6 goals, which is an average figure in the conference. The leading candidate for the Calder Trophy (awarded to the best rookie), Connor Bedard, has accumulated 20 points, being the top scorer for the team and ranking 62nd in the NHL.
Nashville Predators
The Predators have won 7 of their last 9 games, including 2 consecutive away victories. In the Western Conference, the team is currently in 9th place, trailing the playoff zone by 3 points. Notable losses for Nashville include not injured players but rather strong defender Tyson Barrie, who is being considered for trade and is therefore not being played to avoid injury. The average total in games involving Nashville is 6.3, with only Edmonton, Minnesota, and Colorado having higher averages in the West. Swedish veteran of the team, Filip Forsberg, has gathered 28 points, making him the top scorer for the team and 17th in the league. He is also among the top 10 goal scorers in the NHL. On the individual downside, defender Roman Josi has accumulated only 17 points, despite recently finishing the season as the league's leading scorer among defender.
Chicago Blackhawks – Nashville Predators prediction
I don't believe the hosts can pose a significant challenge; Chicago appears weaker overall. Additionally, Nashville is a stable team that may lack superstars but usually prevails against underdogs. Especially considering Chicago has several injured players, and lacking depth in the team (or rather its absence), any player is crucial. Nashville has won in regulation in 5 out of the last 6 head-to-head matchups.
