NHL Predictions: Chicago Blackhawks vs Winnipeg Jets, March 31st

Tonight, the Chicago Blackhawks return home to face the Winnipeg Jets. Welcome back to NHL Predictions! 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 with the Chicago Blackhawks vs Winnipeg Jets

Time: 8:30 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)

Season Series: Winnipeg leads 2-1

How to Watch TV: ESPN+, CHSN, TSN3

Location: United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks return home to take on Mark Scheifele and the Winnipeg Jets.

The Jets took the most recent matchup between these two teams in overtime by a score of 3-2. After Dylan Samberg opened the scoring, Teuvo Teravainen netted a power play marker to even the score. Ryan Greene gave Chicago the lead 32 seconds into the final frame, thanks to helpers from Connor Bedard and Sam Rinzel. Cole Perfetti tied the game with under a minute to play in regulation, before Mark Scheifele won it in overtime. Spencer Knight and Connor Hellebuyck were between the pipes in Winnipeg, and should both be in the crease tonight.

Blackhawks Hoping to Erase Metropolitan Division Road Trip

The Hawks suffered yet another crushing defeat in New Jersey to cap off their Metropolitan Division road trip. This one hurt more than others, as the team played well, but surrendered three goals in the third to blow their lead. Ilya Mikheyev opened the scoring, thanks to helpers from Anton Frondell and Louis Crevier. However, Frank Nazar was the top performer for the Hawks. He netted the other two goals, the second of which was what Hawks fans loved to see. Connor Bedard and Frondell connected with Nazar on the power play, giving us a glimpse of the future. However, Olympic hero Jack Hughes took over and stole the win for New Jersey. Spencer Knight stopped 35 shots in the loss.

This loss stings more than the other defeats on this road trip. Unlike against Philadelphia and the Rangers, the Hawks had a lead in this one and played with a confidence and swagger that should have earned them the win. The franchise trio, Bedard, Nazar and Frondell continue to play well and have been the bright spots since Frondell was recalled. However, the defensive effort remains an issue. The club has surrendered three or more goals in the last four games and they continue to allow high-danger chances. Wyatt Kaiser and Alex Vlasic both clocked over 20 minutes and will need to step up in the coming games. Artyom Levshunov missed the game against New Jersey, and his status for tonight is up in the air. As always, be sure to check social media before puck drop for lineups and starting goaltender information. 

Jets Looking for Late-Season Surge into Playoffs

Coming into this one, the Jets find themselves just three points out of a playoff spot and are coming off a massive win in Colorado on Saturday night. In that one, Gabriel Vilardi opened the scoring, while Cole Koepke added Winnipeg’s second goal. After Parker Kelly evened the score at two, Cole Perfetti netted the game-winning goal in the third period. Kyle Connor came through with an empty-net marker to secure the victory. The Jets’ defence core registered an assist, as well, including superstar Josh Morrissey. Connor Hellebuyck stopped 21 of 23 Colorado shots to secure the win.

All of a sudden, the Jets are right there in the thick of the Stanley Cup Playoff hunt. Of all the teams in the race, Hellebuyck is the X-Factor that could bring Winnipeg over the top. The Jets need him to be his usual self if they want a chance to sneak into the postseason. His last three starts have been strong, registering a save percentage over .900 in each. The team is also looking for a boost from Jonathan Towes’ return to Chicago. His ice time has dipped as the season has gone on, but building off his assist on Saturday will be big for Winnipeg. The Jets are looking to pick up two big points and chase down the Predators.

Game Prediction

The Hawks should get a nice boost returning home, but may struggle to match Winnipeg’s sense of urgency. Expect the Jets to pick up two big points.

Prediction: Jets win 5-3

Prop Bets

Anton Frondell Anytime Goalscorer (+380)

Mark Scheifele Anytime Goalscorer (+145)

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