In this matchup, the Chicago Blackhawks finish the season series against the Nashville Predators. Welcome back to NHL Predictions! Each day, our writers here at Last Word On Hockey analyze the day’s games and provide in-depth analysis. We break down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then make predictions based on how they might play out. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.

NHL Predictions: Chicago Blackhawks vs Nashville Predators

Time: 3:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

Season Series: Nashville leads 2-1

How to Watch TV: ESPN+, CHSN, FDSN SO

Location: The United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks close out this Central Division season series against Filip Forsberg and the Nashville Predators.

The most recent matchup between these two Central Division rivals in February was yet another unfortunate result for the Hawks. After Filip Forsberg opened the scoring, Chicago jumped out to a 2-1 lead in the third period, thanks to goals from Connor Bedard and Tyler Bertuzzi. However, Nashville would respond in a big way. Matthew Wood tied it on the power play before Ryan O’Reilly gave the Preds the lead. Steven Stamkos netted the empty-netter to give Justus Annunen the victory. For the Hawks, Spencer Knight was credited with the loss. The Hawks are looking to split the season series with the Preds tonight.

Credit Image: © Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune via ZUMA Press Wire

Blackhawks Looking to Get Back to Strong Play

Before Friday’s game against the Avalanche, the Hawks had earned points in five of their last six games against teams that sit in a Stanley Cup Playoff spot. On Friday, Colorado imposed their will against the Hawks. Wyatt Kaiser netted the Hawks’ lone goal, thanks to helpers from Ryan Greene and Sam Rinzel. However, Arvid Soderblom got very little support, stopping 45 shots against an overwhelming Avalanche attack. Head coach Jeff Blashill is hoping to write that one off as a blip on the radar.

In Chicago’s recent stretch of strong play, it has been its top guys who have delivered. Connor Bedard has five points in the last five games, while Frank Nazar has continued to look comfortable. However, the Hawks have found some much-needed production from the backend, which has been a factor in their play. Louis Crevier and Wyatt Kaiser have chipped in with two points in their last five. However, the Hawks continue to deal with some injuries. Crevier, along with Andrew Mangiapane, did not play on Friday. Oliver Moore also continues to miss time with a lower-body injury.

Predators Looking for Crucial Two Points

For some time now, every game has been a playoff game for the Predators. They have climbed into a playoff spot and are riding a three-game win streak coming into this one. The Preds picked up a massive win yesterday against the Vegas Golden Knights. Vegas controlled much of the play and generated 40 shots, but only got one past Annunen. Steven Stamkos came up massive, netting the first two goals. Tyson Jost earned the third Nashville goal, while Ryan O’Reilly iced the game with a power play marker. The Preds are aiming for a convincing victory in the Windy City.

Expect an all-out push from Nashville to end the season. With many of the rumoured trades at the deadline, along with the retirement of general manager Barry Trotz, this could be the final push for this veteran group. Aside from their veterans, youngster Luke Evangelista has played a massive role. His 48 points are fourth on the team. However, most notably, Juuse Saros missed Thursday and Saturday’s games with an upper-body injury, forcing Annunen into the starter’s net. If he can’t go against Chicago, either Annunen will be forced into back-to-back duries, or Matt Murray will see the net. As always, be sure to check social media before puck drop for lineups and starting goaltender information. 

Game Prediction

Given how vital these points are for the Preds, expect an inspired effort to pick up their fourth straight win. Expect Nashville to come out victorious in a high-scoring affair.

Prediction: Predators win 5-4

Prop Bets

Ryan Donato Anytime Goalscorer (+370)

Jonathan Marchessault Anytime Goalscorer (+270)

Main Photo Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

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