NHL Predictions: Chicago Blackhawks vs Edmonton Oilers, April 2nd

Welcome back to NHL Predictions! In this matchup, the Chicago Blackhawks hit the road to take on the Edmonton Oilers. Each day, our writers here at Last Word On Hockey analyze the day’s games and provide in-depth analysis. We break down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then make predictions based on how they might play out. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.

NHL Predictions: Chicago Blackhawks vs Edmonton Oilers

Time: 9:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

Season Series: Edmonton leads 2-0

How to Watch TV: ESPN+, CHSN, SNW, TVAS

Location: Rogers Place

Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks take on Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers

The Oilers have handled each of the first two matchups between these two teams. The first meeting in November was a tough and tight contest the entire way, with an Evan Bouchard overtime winner being the difference. Connor McDavid collected three assists, while Leon Draisaitl earned two points. The most recent meeting in January was controlled by Edmonton from start to finish. Bouchard was once again the difference, netting two goals. Zach Hyman and Draisaitl netted the other Oilers’ goals, while Tyler Bertuzzi netted the lone Chicago marker. Connor Ingram stopped 29 of 30 Blackhawks shots and is looking for a repeat tonight.

Blackhawks Hoping to Start Road Trip on the Right Foot

The Hawks dropped yet another tight game in the extra frame Tuesday night to the Winnipeg Jets. Youngster Anton Frondell netted his first career goal to open the scoring, before the Hawks allowed three straight Winnipeg goals. However, the team battled back once again. Tyler Bertuzzi netted his 30th and 31st goals of the season to even the score, but ultimately, the Hawks failed to cross the finish line as the Jets won it in overtime. Spencer Knight made 20 saves in the losing effort and is looking for a bounce-back tonight. As always, be sure to check social media for starting lineups and starting goaltender information.

Tonight, the Hawks are hoping that a road trip out West could spell better fortunes. Though they have had trouble finishing games, the Oilers present an interesting opportunity for the young Hawks. There should be chances for the team to score, and the Blackhawks’ top players need to take advantage. Connor Bedard, in particular, is going to have to step up after a shocking zero-shot performance against the Jets. Bertuzzi has held up his end of the bargain, with three goals and five points in the last five games. On the injury front, things are less encouraging. Oliver Moore continues to miss significant time, while head coach Jeff Blashill announced that Artyom Levshunov and Matt Grzelcyk will miss the remainder of the regular season. Kevin Korchinski should continue to see ice time in their place. Look for an inspired effort tonight.