Stars vs Blackhawks Picks and Prediction – 4/6/2024

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The Dallas Stars, dominating the Central Division with a record of 48-19-9, square off against the Chicago Blackhawks, who are languishing at the bottom with a 22-48-5 record. As the teams prepare to face off on Saturday, April 6th, at 2:30 PM CST at the United Center, the game promises to be a showcase of Dallas's quest for excellence against Chicago's struggle for respect. Despite recent injuries, with key players like Jani Hakanpaa and Evgenii Dadonov sidelined for Dallas, and Chicago nursing its own with Nikita Zaitsev, Colin Blackwell, and Reese Johnson out, the stage is set for a compelling encounter. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

Dallas arrives in Chicago riding a high, having convincingly won the last eight games, including a decisive 5-0 victory over Edmonton. The Stars, second in goals for with 278 and boasting a solid defensive record, 11th in goals against at 218, have been formidable. 

The dynamic duo of Wyatt Johnston, with 30 goals, and Jason Robertson, leading with 50 assists and 77 points, has been pivotal. Jake Oettinger's goaltending, with a .903 save percentage and 2.80 goals against average, underscores Dallas's balance of power and finesse. Despite the absence of Hakanpaa and Dadonov, Dallas's depth and talent remain unchallenged, as seen in its recent winning streak.

Conversely, Chicago's season tells a story of struggle, mirrored in recent mixed results, including a 2-1 loss to the NY Islanders. The Blackhawks rank near the bottom in most categories, including 31st in goals for (165) and 27th in goals against (261). 

Yet, bright spots like Connor Bedard, leading the team with 21 goals and 58 points, alongside Petr Mrazek's efforts in goal, give Chicago glimpses of hope. Despite the uphill battle, the Blackhawks aim to use an underdog status, drawing from a resilient spirit and the potential for surprise performances against the odds.