Ducks vs Blackhawks Prediction & Odds - 3/1/2025

The Anaheim Ducks (25-25-7) are set to host the Chicago Blackhawks (17-34-7) at the Honda Center on Saturday, March 1, in what promises to be an intriguing matchup between two teams seeking to find their rhythm.

The Blackhawks enter the contest looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2-1 defeat in their previous outing, while carrying one of the NHL's most effective power-play units, converting at an impressive 25.55% rate.

The Ducks, coming off a narrow 3-2 loss to the Sabres, will rely on veteran netminder John Gibson, who brings a career .910 save percentage to the crease.

Both teams have struggled defensively this season, with Chicago allowing 201 goals while Anaheim has conceded 173, setting the stage for what could be an offensive showdown.

The home team's recent performance at the Honda Center, combined with Chicago's road struggles, suggests the Ducks might have a slight edge, though the Blackhawks' superior power-play efficiency could prove to be a decisive factor.

As these two Original Six rivals prepare to face off in what could be a pivotal game for both teams' momentum, hockey fans will be watching closely to see if either squad can establish dominance and turn their season around.

Anaheim Ducks vs. Chicago Blackhawks preview

The Honda Center in Anaheim is set to host an intriguing NHL matchup this Saturday as the struggling Chicago Blackhawks (17-34-7) face off against the middling Anaheim Ducks (25-25-7) in what promises to be a compelling contest between two teams seeking to improve their positions.

The Ducks enter the game as favorites (-152) despite coming off a narrow 3-2 defeat to the Sabres, where they showed some promise on the power play by converting two of their four opportunities.

Chicago's recent form has been particularly challenging, as evidenced by their latest 2-1 defeat, though their power play efficiency of 25.55% stands as a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season.

Between the pipes, the goaltending matchup features veteran Petr Mrazek for the Blackhawks, who brings a career .906 save percentage, facing off against the Ducks' John Gibson, who has maintained a solid .910 save percentage over his career.

The Ducks' offensive struggles have been evident this season, ranking 31st in the league with just 20 power play goals, while their overall goal tally of 143 reflects their challenges in finding the back of the net.

Chicago's defensive woes have been a major concern, having surrendered 201 goals this season while managing to score just 152, ranking them 28th in the NHL for offensive production.

The statistics paint a clear picture of two teams facing different challenges: Anaheim's difficulty in capitalizing on power play opportunities (12.90% conversion rate) versus Chicago's struggles in preventing goals (with a .891 save percentage).

While the Ducks hold home-ice advantage and a slightly better season record, their recent performances suggest this could be a closer contest than the odds indicate, with both teams desperate to find consistency in their game.

Given the teams' current trajectories and statistical profiles, expect a tight-checking affair where special teams could prove to be the difference-maker, with the total set at 6 goals reflecting the potential for a low-scoring matchup.