NHL Predictions: Chicago Blackhawks vs Utah Mammoth

Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word On Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. In this edition, we look at the Chicago Blackhawks taking on the Utah Mammoth. 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 Utah Mammoth

Head-to-Head: Blackhawks 3-0 Mammoth

How to Watch: US TV: Utah16; CHSN; ESPN+

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

Location: Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah

The Blackhawks Side

We have a Central Division matchup in this one. This will be their final meeting of the season and the third this month. The Blackhawks (24-29-11) defeated the Mammoth in overtime 3-2 on Monday in Chicago and have dominated the season series, winning three of their four matchups. Frank Nazar scored the game-winner shortly after he bobbled the puck while on a breakaway. Chicago’s currently 30th in the NHL as they continue to rebuild around Connor Bedard. The 20-year-old star forward leads Chicago in points with 60. The Blackhawks are ranked 27th in goals for and 22nd in goals against.

Drew Commesso was reassigned to AHL Rockford, meaning Spencer Knight (16-18-8) is slated to start against the Mammoth. He was recently out due to an illness.

The Mammoth Side

The Mammoth (34-26-5) return home after completing a five-game road trip. They most recently lost to the Minnesota Wild 5-0. Utah comes in having gone 6-4 in their last 10 games. Captain Clayton Keller leads the team in scoring with 64 points. Utah’s currently in the first wild card in the West with 73 points. The Mammoth are also ranked 16th in goals for and fourth in goals against.

Karel Vejmelka (30-17-2) is projected to start against the Blackhawks.

NHL Predictions

It’s surprising that the Blackhawks have won every matchup against the Mammoth so far this season. However, we think Utah ends that streak in this one. The return of Mikhail Sergachev would provide a huge boost for the Mammoth, but he’s currently day-to-day. Utah’s still one of the best defensive teams and also one of the best home teams with a record of 18-10-2. 

Prediction: Mammoth win 4-2

Prop Bets

For our best prop bets of the night, look to Nick Schmaltz for an anytime goal scorer at +200. Schmaltz just signed a new contract extension and should have an extra jump in his game after inking the long-term deal.

On the Chicago side of things, look for Frank Nazar to score at least one goal at +375. Nazar scored the overtime winner in the last matchup between the two teams. Look for him to find twine again in this one.

Projected lineups are based on available data at the time of writing. Please check social media and official team sources for the very latest lineup news before locking in any daily fantasy roster or prop wagers.

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