Published Mar 17, 4:59am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Mar 17, 4:59am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Mar 17, 5:01am ET
Western Conference action is set for the NHL on March 17, as the struggling Minnesota Wild head to the Chicago Blackhawks.
The Wild may sit third in the Central Division standings, but they have suffered three straight losses. But, they will likely be favored to bounce back to form against a Blackhawks side that sits rock bottom of the division.
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|
|---|---|
| Chicago Blackhawks | +153 |
| Minnesota Wild | -175 |
The Chicago Blackhawks have struggled for results in the NHL since play resumed after the Winter Olympics.
They have dropped to the bottom of the Central Division standings after losing five of their last ten in regulation, while no team in the division have scored fewer goals this season.
Chicago were outplayed in their latest outing, as they were easily beaten on the road by the Vegas Golden Knights. Connor Bedard has been the only bright spark for the team this season, scoring a Blackhawks-high 55 points.
The increased pressure this week is likely to be on the visiting Minnesota Wild. John Hynes’ team have suffered three successive defeats, but they remain third in the Central Division.
Offensively, the team have been strong throughout the campaign, with Kirill Kaprizov leading the franchise for goals and assists. But, they have shown defensive vulnerability during their three-game losing run, allowing ten goals.
A return to form is required ahead of back-to-back home games against the Blackhawks and Dallas Stars later this week.
| TOTAL | Blackhawks | Wild | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINS | 118 | 48 | 69 | - |
| GOALS | 627 | 296 | 331 |
The increased pressure is likely to be on the visiting team this week, as the Wild bid to end a three-game losing run. However, they look like the excellent chance on the moneyline after winning just under 60% of their previous head-to-head encounters with the Blackhawks.
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Pick
Minnesota Wild
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