The Penguins return home to host the Blackhawks at PPG Paints Arena. Welcome back to NHL Predictions here on Last Word on Hockey! Each day, we provide in-depth analysis, insights, and predictions for all the NHL’s games. In today’s matchup, both teams aim to finish their seasons on a high note having been eliminated from playoff contention. At this point, they both have thoughts of possible lottery picks on their minds.
NHL Predictions
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
Head-to-Head: Blackhawks lead 1-0
Time: 7:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
TV: CHSN, Sportsnet+
This is the second and final meeting between the Penguins and Blackhawks this season. The Blackhawks beat the Penguins 3-1 on Sunday in their previous encounter.
The Penguins’ Story
Following the 3-1 loss to the Blackhawks, the Penguins are 31-35-12. This record places them third-last in the Eastern Conference, and seventh-last in the league. With the Penguins record, the team is shaping up to have their highest draft selection since 2012. Trivia fans? Well, that is when they picked Derrick Pouliot eight overall, of course.
Although the 2024-25 season has not been great for Pittsburgh, there have certainly been some bright spots. Sidney Crosby continues to defy Father Time, scoring 86 points through 76 games thus far. His incredible season has helped Rickard Rakell bounce back and have a great year too. Rakell has scored 34 goals and 67 points this season, significantly raising his trade value should general manager Kyle Dubas choose to move him out in the offseason. Rookies Rutger McGroarty and Ville Koivunen are likely to get increased playing time in the top-six again, giving them valuable NHL experience. The offence of the Penguins led by Crosby will be a focal point of Pittsburgh’s game plan against Chicago.
The Blackhawks’ Story
Following the 3-1 win against Pittsburgh on Sunday, Chicago is 22-45-10 on the season, good for second-last in the NHL. Having selected first overall in 2023 and second overall in 2024, the Blackhawks are primed for another prime draft pick to aid in their rebuild.
In regards to current players, Connor Bedard leads the charge. Bedard moved to sole possession of first in team scoring with an assist against the Penguins on Sunday. He now has 60 points in 77 games. He is likely to be on the hunt for more points against Pittsburgh in order to surpass his career-high in points with 61. Expect 2024 second-overall pick Artyom Levshunov to receive valuable playing time as well. The big defenceman will be an integral part of the Hawks defence against Pittsburgh. The veterans of Chicago like Ryan Donato and Nick Foligno will have to help the youngsters like Bedard in order to defeat Pittsburgh on their home ice. Donato especially, has shattered his personal bests this season. He has 29 goals (previous best 16), 30 assists (previous best 18), and 59 points (previous best 31). He is also up nearly three minutes of ice time over his career average. Look for him to build on his success on into the 2025-26 campaign.
NHL Prediction
With players like McGroarty looking to make a name for themselves playing with Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, expect the Penguins to bounce-back from a frustrating loss against Chicago and win this one.
Prediction: Penguins win 4-2
Prop Bet for the Night
Total Goals Over 5 (-340): Expect another stingy game between these two teams on Tuesday night in Pittsburgh.
Main Photo Credit: Talia Sprague-Imagn Images
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The post NHL Predictions: April 8th Chicago Blackhawks at Pittsburgh Penguins appeared first on Last Word On Hockey.