Deadline day is one of the most hyped days on the NHL calendar but with most of the big targets already finding new homes, today will more than likely be pretty quiet, on and off the ice, with just two scheduled games. The best of those matchups will feature two Stanley Cup contenders in Pittsburgh and Chicago, with the Penguins coming off a 3-2 loss to the Stars last night.
That loss to Dallas was actually the Penguins’ first this season – and first in well over a year – after taking a lead into the third period. Not a great way to enter the second half of a back-to-back against one of the best teams in the league and the 39-18-5 Blackhawks, who are 7-2-1 against the Pens in their last 10 matchups, are lying in wait and ready to pounce on the vulnerable flightless birds of Pittsburgh.
On yet another winning streak, the ’Hawks will go for their fifth straight tonight looking to keep up their insane goal-scoring record that’s seen them average five goals a game over their last four. Newest addition Johnny Oduya will look to make an immediate impact on the third-line pairing with Michal Kempny, giving the ’Hawks some defensive depth that was desperately needed.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs Chicago Blackhawks Matchup
Team Betting Records & Power Rankings
The Chicago Blackhawks sport a record of 39-18-5 heading into this matchup, while the Pittsburgh Penguins sit at 38-15-8 on the season. The OVER/UNDER records are 28-23-11 for the Blackhawks and 37-20-4 for the Penguins. Stay Informed: follow us on Twitter for odds specials, betting line moves and Chicago vs Pittsburgh injuries news.
This game matches up the No. 6 (Chicago Blackhawks) and the No. 4 (Pittsburgh Penguins) teams according to our current NHL Power Rankings.
Statistical Matchup
The game also pits Chicago's No. 7-ranked offense, averaging 3.02 goals per game, against a Penguins defense that ranks No. 14 at 2.8 goals allowed. The Blackhawks power play is averaging 18.89% while the Penguins defense kills off 80.3% of their penalties.
Recent Outings Betting Recap
Pittsburgh was a 3-2 loser in its last match on the road against the Stars. They lost as -140 underdogs, while the total score of 5 made winners of UNDER bettors.
Chicago won its last outing, a 4-2 result against the Blues on February 26. Bettors who backed the Blackhawks at -143 on the moneyline won on the day, and the total score (6) sent OVER bettors to the payout window.
Next Betting Matchups
Pittsburgh home to Tampa Bay, Friday, March 3rd
Chicago home to New York, Friday, March 3rd