By: Kim Smith Published 01/25/2026, 06:20 AM ET 
The Florida Panthers head to the Windy City on Sunday, January 25, 2026, to take on the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM, with television coverage available on NHL Net, the Chicago Sports Network, and Scripps Sports. Florida enters this matchup as a road favorite at -142 on the moneyline, while Chicago is listed at +120. The total is set at 5.5 goals, with the Over priced at -135 and the Under at +114. The puck line lists Florida -1.5 at +170 and Chicago +1.5 at -205. Be sure to check out our free NHL picks for more daily NHL betting insights and expert analysis.
Sign Up for Winners and Whiners News Alerts, Get Exclusive Offers and Discounts
Subscribe Now
I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Winners and Whiners may use third-party services to process my data.
Terms & Conditions Panthers Looking For Consistency Away From Home
Florida comes into Sunday night with a 26-20-3 overall record and a 12-10-0 mark on the road. The Panthers have shown flashes of strong play recently, having recently won over the Jets in a shootout, Capitals, and Sabres, while also suffering losses to the Sharks and Hurricanes in lopsided fashion. That stretch highlights a team capable of controlling games, but also one that can be vulnerable when defensive structure breaks down.
From a statistical standpoint, Florida has been fairly balanced this season. The Panthers are averaging 2.96 goals per game while allowing 3.27 goals against, numbers that suggest many of their games are tightly contested. Shot volume has been solid, with Florida generating nearly 29 shots per game while allowing just over 26 shots against, giving them opportunities to tilt the ice when forechecking effectively.
One of Florida’s strengths has been their penalty kill, which is operating at a strong 82.4%. That unit has helped offset a power play that has been somewhat inconsistent at 18.1%. When Florida plays disciplined hockey and limits time shorthanded, they are often able to dictate pace with physical play and sustained pressure in the offensive zone. Their road success has largely come when they simplify their game and lean on structure rather than chasing offense.
Blackhawks Battling At The United Center
Chicago enters this matchup with a 21-22-8 overall record and an 11-12-5 mark at home. The Blackhawks have been competitive in recent outings, having recently lost to the Lightning in a shootout and Bruins, while earning wins over the Hurricanes in a shootout and the Jets. That mix of results shows a team capable of grinding out wins, especially when games stay close.
Statistically, Chicago has been slightly below league average offensively, scoring 2.69 goals per game while allowing 3.04 goals against. Shot production has been a challenge, with the Blackhawks averaging just 25 shots per game while surrendering nearly 30 shots on the defensive end. That imbalance often forces Chicago to rely heavily on goaltending and shot blocking to stay within reach.
Where the Blackhawks have excelled is on special teams. Their power play is converting at a healthy 21.0%, and their penalty kill has been outstanding at 85.4%, one of the stronger units in the league. That combination has allowed Chicago to stay competitive against more talented opponents. At home, the Blackhawks tend to slow games down and force opponents into low-event contests, which has kept many matchups within a single goal.
Florida Panthers vs Chicago Blackhawks PickFlorida Panthers vs Chicago Blackhawks Pick Pick: Florida Panthers -142 (Moneyline)
Florida has the edge in overall talent and shot suppression, and that advantage should show over the course of sixty minutes. While Chicago’s special teams are strong, the Panthers’ ability to generate more consistent offensive-zone pressure gives them the upper hand. If Florida avoids extended penalty trouble, they should be able to control the flow of the game and come away with a road win.
Florida Panthers vs Chicago Blackhawks Total Pick
I am taking the Under in this matchup because both teams are comfortable playing lower-scoring games. Chicago has made a habit of slowing tempo at home, and Florida has been more conservative on the road, particularly against teams that rely on structure. With two capable penalty kills and limited five-on-five shot volume from Chicago, this game sets up as a tight, defensive battle that stays under the total.
Final Score Prediction: Florida Panthers 3, Chicago Blackhawks 2
This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Saturday.
Spend $25 Get $50 in Coins
Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus 
Get up to 103 SC + 20,500 GC for FREE with Legendz!
Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus 
100% purchase match for up to 100 in Onyx Cash Free Picks
Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus