The Chicago Blackhawks arrive at Honda Center Sunday evening as Western Conference upstarts, looking to complete a sweep against the Pacific Division-leading Anaheim Ducks. The Blackhawks hold a perfect 2-0 record against Anaheim this season, including a dominant 5-3 comeback victory last weekend. This crucial matchup pits two of hockey’s biggest surprises in 2025-26 against each other.
🔥 Quick Facts
Connor Bedard has recorded 18 goals through 27 games, standing fourth in NHL scoring
The Blackhawks lead the season series 2-0 over Anaheim with one game remaining
The Ducks sit atop the Pacific Division with a 17-10-1 record and 35 points
Chicago has gone 6-2-0 in their last eight games at Honda Center dating back to last season
Blackhawks Momentum Against Division Powerhouse
The Chicago Blackhawks come into Sunday’s matchup riding tremendous confidence on the road. They’ve compiled an impressive 18-4-1 record over their last 23 overall games, establishing themselves as one of the league’s most dominant teams recently. This West Coast road trip has been pivotal for Chicago, with the team wrapping up their four-game stretch in Anaheim.
Connor Bedard continues his exceptional sophomore season, leading the charge for the Blackhawks. The dynamic forward has been nearly unstoppable, recording a team-leading 18 goals through 27 games. In their last matchup on November 30, Bedard put on a spectacular show with a four-point performance, including two goals. His ability to generate offense on both sides of the puck has transformed Chicago’s offensive capabilities this season.
Ducks Looking to Assert Divisional Control
Despite losing the first two games of the series, the Anaheim Ducks maintain their grip atop the Pacific Division with a 17-10-1 record. They’re coming off a dramatic 4-3 shootout victory over Washington just hours before this matchup, giving the home team valuable momentum heading into Sunday. The Ducks have won 10 games at Honda Center this season, establishing their arena as a genuine fortress.
Leo Carlsson anchors Anaheim’s offensive surge, recording 36 points through 26 games played. The young center has become a cornerstone for the Ducks’ resurgence, tied for eighth in the NHL in assists with 22. His playmaking ability has opened up opportunities for teammates like Cutter Gauthier and Troy Terry, creating a balanced attack that should test Chicago’s defensive structure.
Key Storylines and Matchup Analysis
Category
Chicago Blackhawks
Anaheim Ducks
Record
12-10-6 (30 pts)
17-10-1 (35 pts)
Recent Form
18-4-1 in last 23 games
Recent shootout win vs Washington
Key Player
Bedard – 18 goals, 4th in NHL
Carlsson – 36 points in 26 games
Home Record
6-2-0 at Honda Center (recent)
10-4-0 at home this season
Rivalry Context and Series History
The Blackhawks’ perfect 2-0 start to the season series against Anaheim marks a significant statement in Pacific Division play. Chicago’s ability to consistently generate offense against the Ducks’ defense has been the difference, with Bedard earning his team-leading four points in the November 30 victory. The Ducks will need to tighten their blue line coverage and generate more balanced scoring support to avoid falling to 0-3.
Both teams represent the narrative of 2025-26: clubs that were expected to struggle have instead become contenders. The Los Angeles Daily News recently characterized both teams as “Western upstarts,” highlighting how dramatically each organization has transformed its roster and approach. For Chicago to clinch the season series on the road at a staunch defensive venue represents an opportunity to establish divisional credibility.
Can the Ducks Stop the Blackhawks’ Unstoppable Offense Tonight?
This matchup represents a critical test for both franchises as the season approaches the halfway point. Chicago’s devastating offensive attack, spearheaded by Bedard’s elite finishing and playmaking, will challenge Anaheim’s defensive structure throughout 60 minutes. The Ducks’ home ice advantage at Honda Center provides a resource advantage that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Puck drop is scheduled for 8:00 PM Eastern Time (5:00 PM Pacific) on Sunday, December 7, with broadcasts available on Victory+, CHSN, and KCOP-13. Fans can also stream the matchup through ESPN+. This third and final regular season meeting between these division rivals could set the tone for playoff implications should these teams meet again in April.
Sources
NHL.com – Official game preview and team statistics
Chicago Hockey Now – Team news and player performance analysis
Second City Hockey – Tactical breakdown and matchup discussion
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.