NHL Predictions: January 17th, Chicago Blackhawks vs Boston Bruins

The Chicago Blackhawks aim to even the season series against the Boston Bruins. Welcome to another edition of 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: Chicago Blackhawks vs Boston Bruins

Time: 8:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)

Head-to-Head: Blackhawks 0-1 Bruins

How to Watch TV: ESPN+, NESN, CHSN

Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks host David Pastrnak and the surging Boston Bruins.

Hawks Needing Desperate Effort to Earn Two Points

The Hawks enter this matchup in need of two points to maintain pace with the San Jose Sharks, who currently sit six points ahead. To do so, the club will have to battle against the Bruins, who won the only other matchup between the two teams in early October. The Hawks played well, but fell short to a Fraser Minten overtime winner. However, some bright spots emerged, including Connor Bedard and Andre Burakovsky. Both players had a goal and an assist to keep the Hawks alive. Additionally, Frank Nazar, Nick Foligno and Colton Dach registered assists. Nazar continues to be out of the Hawks’ lineup, but Foligno and Dach are looking for repeat performances to lift Chicago to a win. Louis Crevier scored the third Hawks goal, while rookie Artyom Levshunov collected his first point of the season. Arvid Soderblom drew between the pipes and stopped 29 of 33 shots faced.

Looking ahead to this matchup, head coach Jeff Blashill’s group aims to get back on track after dropping its previous two contests. Against the Oilers and Flames, the club has only managed two goals, with Foligno finding the back of the net against Calgary. Dach and Landon Slaggert picked up assists, which was all the offence the team could muster. Teuvo Teravainen missed Thursday’s contest, so his presence is needed on Saturday. Additionally, Tyler Bertuzzi and his 24-goal campaign is going to be needed for the Hawks to pick up a win. Spencer Knight stopped 20 of 22 shots faced against Calgary, and he will likely be between the pipes again.

It is a good time to mention: always check social media before puck drop for lineups and starting goaltender information

Bruins Looking to Continue Winning Ways in Surprising Season

In the first matchup between the Hawks and Bruins, Boston featured a balanced offensive attack, with contributions from all around the lineup. Fraser Minten, along with Casey Mittelstadt, Tanner Jeannot and Elias Lindholm, found the back of the net. Pavel Zacha, Michael Eyssimont, and David Pastrnak each picked up an assist. Additionally, former Blackhawk Henri Jokiharju had an assist from the backend. Joonas Korpisalo was in the crease in the first meeting and was most recently between the pipes in the team’s 1-0 win over the Penguins about a week ago. He has won his previous two starts and may see the net once again.

As a team, the Bruins have exceeded a lot of expectations. They have had contributions from all players, and head coach Marco Sturm has them playing the right way. Morgan Geekie, in particular, is one of the most surprising league-wide stories of the season. His 25 goals are tied for fifth in league scoring after netting 33 last year. Viktor Arvidsson and Marat Khusnutdinov have given the Bruins good contributions, while Charlie McAvoy has returned from injury and continued his stable play. However, the Bruins’ blueline has been hampered by injuries, as Hampus Lindholm was placed on injured reserve in early January, and Andrew Peeke left Thursday’s game against Seattle. That being said, Jeremy Swayman has sported a .905 save percentage, after dipping below .900 a year ago. The Hawks will have to be up to the task to knock off the Bruins.

NHL Prediction

The Bruins are red-hot, while the Hawks have had some glaring offensive concerns. Barring a massive effort from Connor Bedard and the Hawks’ top players, expect the Bruins to come out victorious.

Prediction: Bruins win 4-3

Prop Bets

Even though he has been quiet in the last couple of games, Connor Bedard to score has good value at +150. Additionally, our prediction had some goals being scored, so the over 6.5 goals should be a nice play at +110.

Please play responsibly, check for your local rules and age restrictions; some jurisdictions require ages 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.