SIGN UP: Get the best player prop and game betting projections at BetAlytics. Use code "JUICE" for a special promo rate.
Los Angeles Kings (31-19-8) at Chicago Blackhawks (18-35-7)
Date: Monday, March 3
Time: 8:30 p.m. ET
TV: CHSN, FDSNW, ESPN+
I know what you’re thinking. How could a game that features the NHL’s second-worst team be the featured wager?
Well, you’re not wrong. However, I will be in attendance, having invested in this particular matchup.
The pick — OVER 5.5 goals (-120, BetMGM)
The Kings are one of the streakiest teams in the league over the past two months. They enjoyed a five-game win streak in late December and early January, lost eight of 10, won five of six and have lost their last three contests. Still hanging on to third place in the Pacific Division, L.A. needs a victory in a bad way.
Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are selling off parts left and right. They were gifted the chance to draft Connor Bedard first overall in 2023, and they have done nothing to help their young superstar by spending money in all the wrong places. Chicago has just four wins in its last 19 games, including a 6-3 victory over the Ducks in Anaheim last Saturday.
The Kings are one of the better defensive clubs, ranking third in goals against (154), while the Blackhawks are third-worst (213). So Los Angeles could hit this mark on its own.
Both teams have easily cleared the above total a lot lately. Chicago has topped it in eight of its last nine games, while Los Angeles has done it in six of its last nine, including two contests that reached five goals.
I expect to see some scoring at the United Center. Because what else do you cheer for when you’re in the building and don’t have a rooting interest in either team?
Season record: 20-18-2, +3.8 units