The Chicago Blackhawks (3-2-2) visit the Tampa Bay Lightning (1-3-2) tonight at Amalie Arena in Tampa.

Chicago comes into this game off a solid start to the season, showing a resurgence in offense led by young stars like Connor Bedard and Frank Nazar. The Blackhawks are averaging around 3.1 goals per game while allowing about 2.6 — a significant improvement in even-strength play and defensive structure. The club is showing signs of life in their rebuild, with momentum building.

On the other side, Tampa Bay enters with just one win, having lost three straight and searching for momentum amid a rough start. While historically a powerhouse, the Lightning have struggled with consistency this early season. They’re still lethal when Nikita Kucherov, Jake Guentzel, and Brayden Point are engaged, but they’ve conceded too many opportunities and allowed their opponents too many transition chances. Expect the Lightning to use home-ice advantage and veteran leadership to try and regain rhythm.

The matchup to watch: Chicago’s speed and breakout game versus Tampa Bay’s veteran structure and home-ice urgency. If the Blackhawks can force turnovers and tilt play their way, they’ll challenge the Lightning’s composure. But if Tampa Bay can lock in defensively and capitalize on their depth, they should control the flow in the later periods.

Prediction

Expect a back-and-forth affair with momentum swings and late drama. Tampa Bay’s veteran experience and home ice tilt give them the edge, but Chicago’s young core and upward trajectory mean this one won’t be easy.

Projected Final Score: Lightning 4, Blackhawks 3

How to Watch Blackhawks vs. Lightning

Puck drop for tonight’s game between the Chicago Blackhawks and Tampa Bay Lightning is set for 6:45 PM Eastern at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida.

The game airs exclusively on ESPN+ Hulu.

You can watch the game free on ESPN+ by starting a trial with DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, or FuboTV, all of which include ESPN+.

After signing up, activate your ESPN plan and link it to your MyDisney login. If you already have Hulu + Live TV, you’ll automatically get access through that account. Remember to cancel before the trial ends if you don’t plan to keep the service.

Chicago Blackhawks vs. Tampa Bay Lightning

Date: Thursday, October 23, 2025

Time: 6:45 PM Eastern

Venue: Amalie Arena, Tampa, FL

TV/Streaming: ESPN+ / Hulu

Streaming: ESPN app / website