Stars vs Blackhawks Picks and Prediction – 11/28/2024

The Dallas Stars (13-7) and Chicago Blackhawks (7-12-2) face off at the United Center. Dallas comes off a tough 6-4 loss to Carolina, while Chicago fell to Philadelphia 3-2. Both teams look to reset in this divisional matchup, with Dallas dominating the season series so far. Hit the ice running with our NHL picks.

The Stars have displayed consistency this season, ranking 10th in goals scored with 69 while maintaining the league's best defense, allowing just 50 goals. Offensively, Matt Duchene leads the way with 11 goals and 14 assists, while Jason Robertson contributes with a solid 12 points. Dallas's power play has room for improvement at 16.1%, but the penalty kill is impressive at 82.8%. Jake Oettinger anchors the team with a .912 save percentage and a 2.43 goals-against average. Despite a recent loss, the Stars' balanced attack and staunch defensive efforts make them a formidable opponent.

Defensively, Dallas has excelled in limiting opponents' opportunities, reflected in the league-best goals-against record. Strong penalty killing complements the defense, led by the reliable Esa Lindell and Miro Heiskanen. While they struggled to contain Carolina in the last outing, the Stars are expected to rebound and tighten up against a weaker Blackhawks offense.

Chicago, on the other hand, has had a challenging season, ranking last in goals scored with 49. Connor Bedard has been a bright spot, leading with 12 points, while Ryan Donato has chipped in with eight goals. The Blackhawks' power play sits at 20.8%, a slight advantage over Dallas, but the penalty kill is less effective at 78.7%. Petr Mrazek has been serviceable in net with a .912 save percentage and a 2.68 goals-against average, though he faces consistent pressure due to Chicago's defensive lapses.

On defense, Chicago has struggled to find stability, conceding 63 goals this season. With Seth Jones sidelined, the blue line has a noticeable gap. Chicago’s ability to limit the Stars' scoring chances will determine its competitiveness, but inconsistent play leaves the Blackhawks vulnerable in this matchup.

The Stars' balanced offense and top-tier defense give them a clear advantage against the struggling Blackhawks. Expect Dallas to control possession and capitalize on Chicago's defensive gaps. Final Score Prediction: Dallas Stars win 4-1.