San Jose Sharks vs
Chicago BlackhawksPredictions & Preview

Sharks to Face Blackhawks in Western Conference Showdown at United Center, Seeking First Win of the Season

The San Jose Sharks will face off against the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center in a Western Conference matchup on Thursday evening. The Sharks, still searching for their first win of the season, will be up against the Blackhawks, who have had success in recent matchups between the two teams. Despite Chicago being the betting favorite at -185, the game is expected to be a competitive one. The puck drops at 7:00 PM Eastern Time.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Sharks +159 | Blackhawks -185
• Spread: Sharks +1.5 (-160) | Blackhawks -1.5 (+138)
• Total: Over/Under 6 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Chicago will win straight-up is 65%.

San Jose vs Chicago Stats

San Jose Sharks

The San Jose Sharks suffered their third consecutive loss on Tuesday, falling 3-2 to the Dallas Stars in a shootout. Goalie Mackenzie Blackwood made several saves, but ultimately allowed three goals in the shootout, including the game-winner by Wyatt Johnston. Ty Dellandrea and Tyler Toffoli scored for the Sharks, who played without injured top draft pick Macklin Celebrini. Blackwood remained optimistic, noting the team's improvement and building process. Last season, the Sharks struggled in offense and defense, ranking last in average goals against and save percentage. Currently, key injuries include Celebrini, Lucas Carlsson, and Marc-Edouard Vlasic. With a power ranking of 32, the Sharks are ranked 30th in offense, 18th in defense, and have a 0-1-2 record this season.

Chicago Blackhawks Analysis

The Chicago Blackhawks concluded their four-game road trip in 2024 with a 3-1 loss to the Calgary Flames. Nick Foligno scored Chicago's only goal, with Petr Mrazek making 23 saves. The Blackhawks' offense has struggled, scoring two or fewer goals in three of their first four games. In 2023, Chicago ranked last in the NHL in average goals scored and 28th in average goals against. Their goaltenders had a save percentage of 89.7%. Key players Artyom Levshunov and Laurent Brossolt began the season on injured reserve. Currently, the Blackhawks rank last in the power rankings, 27th in offense, 12th in defense, and have an overall record of 1-2-1. San Jose has won their last three matchups against Chicago.

San Jose Sharks Struggle Against Chicago Blackhawks, Face Tough Road Ahead

The San Jose Sharks have faced difficulty in their recent matchups against the Chicago Blackhawks, failing to secure a victory in their last four meetings. Their last two games in Chicago resulted in losses, including a 5-2 defeat last season. Throughout their previous six games, Chicago's goaltenders have effectively limited San Jose to three goals or fewer. Furthermore, the Sharks have yet to achieve a win in the current season. With Chicago's skilled skaters and San Jose's struggling goaltenders, the Blackhawks have a favorable opportunity to score points. San Jose's goaltenders ranked last in the league in 2023 for average goals against at 3.98 and 30th overall in save percentage at 89.2%. Additionally, the Sharks performed poorly on the road last season with an 80.5% loss rate, continuing with a loss in their first road game of 2024. Given these statistics and trends, the likelihood of a Blackhawks victory in Chicago on Thursday is high. It is recommended to support Chicago in this matchup.

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