Chicago Blackhawks (7-15-0) vs. Minnesota Wild (7-10-4)
The Chicago Blackhawks (7-15-0) take on the Minnesota Wild (7-10-4) in a Central Division matchup on Sunday, December 3rd. When considering hockey picks today, this game features two teams stuck near the bottom of the division standings. Both teams, eager to improve their standings, bring unique strengths and challenges to the ice in what promises to be a compelling contest.
The Blackhawks offense is led by rookie phenom Connor Bedard, who paces the team with 11 goals and 19 points. However, beyond Bedard, Chicago lacks game-breaking talent and has struggled to score all season. They average just 2.43 goals per game, 29th in the NHL. The Minnesota defense allows 3.48 goals against per contest, so Chicago must capitalize on scoring chances in this matchup.
The Wild offense runs through veteran wingers Mats Zuccarello and Kirill Kaprizov, who have combined for 43 points. Minnesota averages 3.10 goals per game but scoring has come less frequently of late during a 2-7 stretch. The Blackhawks allow 3.86 goals per game defensively, 30th in the league, so the Wild should be able to take advantage despite their recent scoring woes.
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Minnesota Wild Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 2:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Xcel Energy Center |
| TV: | NHL |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Petr Mrazek vs. Goaltender Filip Gustavsson
Veteran Petr Mrazek has endured his fair share of struggles in net for Chicago this season, posting a lackluster 3.37 GAA and .900 save percentage across 13 appearances. Mrazek has permitted at least three goals in five straight starts as the Blackhawks’ porous defense continues allowing prime scoring chances. He seems to lose confidence after early goals get by him. Still, even during difficult stretches this year, Mrazek’s veteran poise has shined through for brief spurts where he holds the fort before the dam eventually breaks again. The two-time Stanley Cup winner has seen his better days but can summon a respectable performance when focused. Mrazek must maintain concentration from the initial puck drop to give Chicago a fighting chance against Minnesota’s capable offense.
Youngster Filip Gustavsson has taken over as Minnesota’s top netminder this season but has battled bouts of inconsistency along the way. Through 13 starts, Gustavsson has posted a mediocre 3.46 GAA and .891 save percentage while still searching for his top form. Like Mrazek, shaky defense and breakdowns in front have impacted Gustavsson’s numbers more than his actual play. While he has shown flaws, the 24-year-old has boasts tantalizing potential and a higher ceiling than his counterpart in this goalie matchup. At his best, Gustavsson moves well post-to-post, tracks the puck smartly through traffic, and swallows up dangerous chances to keep the Wild competitive. If he brings his “A” game on Sunday, Gustavsson could well prove the difference in what projects as an evenly-matched showdown between non-contenders.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: Minnesota Wild -196, Total Odds: 6
With two struggling teams, the oddsmakers foresee a close game. Chicago gets +1.5 goals of insurance but must keep the game tight against a Minnesota offense capable of spurts. Still, we recommend staying away from the puckline in this matchup between non-contenders.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Trends
Chicago is 2-8 straight up across its last 10 contests, frequently struggling to keep games competitive. The Blackhawks are 0-5 SU over their previous five road matchups, often wilting away from home. Chicago has played UNDER the total in four of its last five December contests, struggling offensively as shots fail to reach the net.
Minnesota Wild Betting Trends
Minnesota is just 2-7 SU over its last nine matchups, frequently dropping close games during this stretch. The Wild are 5-0 SU in their previous five home games against Chicago, consistently able to eke out wins at Xcel Energy Center. Minnesota has played OVER the total in seven of its last nine home matchups, aided by the home crowd to light the lamp often.
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Minnesota Wild 12/3/23 Betting Picks
This Central Division clash features two teams stuck in ruts this season after playoff appearances last spring. The trends point to another close game between non-contenders struggling for consistency all over the ice. In a fairly even matchup, consider backing the home side Wild despite their recent shooting troubles.
Minnesota boasts the better offense if its scorers can regain their form on home ice. We recommend Wild moneyline bets while monitoring the marketplace for the best odds at top online casino sites. With both goalies permitting their fair share of goals and Minnesota’s offense due for a breakout showing, this game could play OVER the projected total as well.
