Vancouver Canucks vs. Chicago Blackhawks 12/17/23 – As the NHL regular season continues to captivate fans, a compelling matchup is on the horizon with the Vancouver Canucks facing off against the Chicago Blackhawks. The Canucks, boasting an impressive 20-9-1 record, are set to challenge the struggling Blackhawks, who currently stand at 9-19-1. This game not only presents an intriguing clash of teams at different spectrums of the league standings but also serves as a crucial pivot for NHL free picks enthusiasts.
Vancouver Canucks vs. Chicago Blackhawks 12/17/23
When: Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 3:00 PM ET
Where: United Center
TV: NHL
Stream: NHL.TV
Vancouver Canucks vs. Chicago Blackhawks 12/17/23 Betting Odds:
| Team | PUCKLINE | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canucks | +1.5 -265 | o6 -125 | +101 |  |
| Blackhawks | -1.5 +225 | u6 +109 | -114 | |
| ||||
Poetic. pic.twitter.com/CF47F5jvPp
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) December 15, 2023
Goaltender Thatcher Demko vs. Goaltender Petr Mrazek
In net for Vancouver is Thatcher Demko, who has superb numbers across the board through 22 starts. He’s sporting a sparkling 2.31 goals against average along with a .923 save percentage. Demko has shown the ability to single-handedly steal games for the Canucks this season thanks to his reflexes, technique, and compete level. He plays an efficient butterfly style and moves well laterally to take away cross-ice passes. Demko excels at tracking the puck through traffic and stays square to shooters. Though still early in the year, he’s making a case as one of the top goaltenders in the NHL. If Demko brings his A-game on Sunday, it’s hard to envision Chicago lighting the lamp consistently.
Facing Demko is Chicago’s Petr Mrazek, who has struggled immensely in the early going. Through 18 appearances, Mrazek owns an unsightly 3.04 goals against average and .891 save percentage. He has not received much help from the Blackhawks’ porous defense, but the veteran has still shown cracks in his technique. Mrazek can be handcuffed by lateral plays down low and gives up too many rebounds into the slot. His confidence also appears shaken based on recent post-goal reactions. Mrazek will need to channel his best form on Sunday to match saves with red-hot Demko. If not, this could get ugly for Chicago in a hurry.
Dominant Canucks: Analyzing the Pacific Force
The Canucks have displayed an impressive offensive game this season, led by J.T. Miller and Elias Pettersson. With 43 points from 30 games from Miller and 38 from Pettersson combined, both are key contributors in leading Vancouver to success. Quinn Hughes adds depth by contributing 39 points as a defenseman – this trio, along with Demko’s goaltending, makes Vancouver an impressive opponent.
Blackhawks’ Battle: Seeking Consistency
The Blackhawks, led by Connor Bedard and Philipp Kurashev, have shown flashes of brilliance but lack consistency. Bedard’s 24 points from just six games is one highlight among an otherwise disappointing campaign; to effectively challenge Canucks defense while taking advantage of any slipups by Demko, the Blackhawks must make significant strides forward.
NHL Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under TBD
The current betting odds lean in favor of the Canucks, a reflection of their superior season performance. However, the unpredictability of NHL games, especially with teams like the Blackhawks who can surprise, makes this an intriguing bet.
Trends
Vancouver Canucks Betting Trends
Canucks are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Vancouver are 5-0 in their last 5 games against the spread
Canucks are 9-5 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Canucks’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 8 of Canucks’ 16 last games at home
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Trends
Blackhawks are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Chicago Blackhawks are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Blackhawks are 6-10 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Blackhawks’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 5 of Blackhawks’ 13 last games at home
Vancouver Canucks vs. Chicago Blackhawks Betting Picks
Considering the statistics and current form, the Canucks emerge as the clear favorites in this matchup. Their offensive depth and defensive solidity, combined with Demko’s goaltending prowess, make them a formidable opponent for the inconsistent Blackhawks. However, the unpredictability of NHL games, particularly in a venue like the United Center, leaves room for potential upsets.
For bettors seeking value, exploring prop bets related to individual player performances, especially those of Canucks’ offensive leaders, could be fruitful. The over/under bet, considering the recent trends, may lean towards the under, given Vancouver’s defensive strength. Bettors should keep an eye on top betting websites for any changes in odds or key player updates as the game approaches.
Score Prediction: Canucks 5, Blackhawks 2.
