Canadiens Defeat Blackhawks 4-1 in Chicago Showdown

What we said beforehand

The Chicago Blackhawks will face off against the Montreal Canadiens at the United Center on October 24, 2026. This matchup is particularly intriguing as it marks the beginning of the series between these two teams this season. Both franchises have had their struggles recently, with the Blackhawks holding a home record of 3-6-0 and the Canadiens at 4-3-2 on the road.

In their last five games, the Blackhawks have recorded two wins and three losses. Their most recent game ended in a 4-0 loss to the Dallas Stars on October 17, 2026. Prior to that, they secured victories against the Pittsburgh Penguins with a score of 5-3 and the Winnipeg Jets, winning 4-3 in overtime. Overall, the Blackhawks have averaged 2.4 goals scored and 3.8 goals allowed in their last five games. Their home performance has seen them average 2.6 goals scored while allowing 3.8 goals per game over their last ten home games, with a current losing streak of one game.

The Canadiens, on the other hand, have also faced challenges, winning three of their last five games. They recently lost to the San Jose Sharks in overtime, 4-3, on October 20, 2026. Their other victories came against the Buffalo Sabres, winning 4-3 in overtime, and a narrow 1-0 win over the Detroit Red Wings. The Canadiens have averaged 3.2 goals scored and 3.0 goals allowed in their last five games, showcasing a more potent offense compared to the Blackhawks. Their away record has been less impressive, with a 1-3 record in their last four away games.

Historically, the Canadiens have had the upper hand in their recent meetings, winning both matchups this season against the Blackhawks. In their last encounter on December 19, 2025, the Canadiens defeated the Blackhawks 4-1, and earlier in the season on October 11, 2025, they won 3-2. This trend may add pressure on the Blackhawks as they seek to turn the tide in this series.

In terms of injuries, the Blackhawks have Bowen Byram listed as day-to-day due to an upper body injury. The Canadiens, however, face a more significant injury crisis with Nick Suzuki out due to an upper body injury, along with Florian Xhekaj, Sam Montembeault, Ivan Demidov, and Bryce Pickford all on injured reserve. The absence of key players like Suzuki could impact the Canadiens' performance, especially given his contributions of 7 assists and 12 points this season before his injury.

The betting market, as provided by DraftKings, has priced the Canadiens as favorites at -170, with a spread of 1.5 and a total set at 6.5. The over odds are currently at -105.0, while the under odds are at -115.0. The moneyline for the Blackhawks stands at +142.0, indicating that they are considered underdogs in this matchup.

Conditions for the game are expected to be standard for an indoor hockey match, with the United Center providing a controlled environment for both teams. Fans can expect a competitive atmosphere as both teams look to secure crucial points early in the season.

As the game approaches, viewers should watch for how the Blackhawks respond to their recent struggles at home and whether they can capitalize on the Canadiens' injury issues. The performance of Chicago's Frank Nazar, who leads the team with 3 goals, and Anton Frondell, who has 5 assists and 6 points, will be crucial. For Montreal, the focus will be on how they adapt without Suzuki and whether Cole Caufield, who has scored 6 goals this season, can step up in his absence.