Published Jan 14, 3:34am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Jan 14, 3:34am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Jan 14, 3:34am ET
Outsiders for a playoff spot in the Western Conference collide on Jan 15, as the Chicago Blackhawks host the Calgary Flames.
It has largely been a positive campaign to this point for the Blackhawks, as they sit sixth in the Central Division with a winning record over their last ten games.
Meanwhile, the Calgary Flames have an overall losing record in the NHL this season, which sees them sit seventh in the Pacific Division.
Jeff Blashill will take confidence from his team’s overall performances this season. The Blackhawks remain in contention for a playoff spot, and they have been particularly impressive at the United Center, going 10-9-4.
However, a return to winning ways will be required on Thursday following a 4-1 road loss against the Edmonton Oilers earlier this week.
Connor Bedard has been one of the team’s standout players this season, recording 27 assists and 46 overall points in 2025-26.
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There appears to be minimal chance of the Calgary Flames forcing themselves into playoff contention at this stage of the season.
Ryan Huska has overseen a losing record in the NHL, and the Flames have struggled on the road with an overall record of 7-15-2. Their issues on their travels continued earlier this week, as they were made to pay for defensive errors in a 5-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Scoring goals has also been an issue for the Flames this season, with only the Blues netting fewer efforts in the Western Conference.
| TOTAL | Flames | Blackhawks | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINS | 208 | 89 | 93 | - |
| GOALS | 1256 | 610 | 646 |
The Blackhawks have saved their best performances for their home games this season, and they have won 49% of their games against the Flames at the United Center. That trend appears hard to overlook when making picks this week.
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Chicago Blackhawks
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