The St. Louis Blues will face the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday with the NHL preseason chores in full swing. Both sides are looking to finalize their teams and, representing the respective societies understandably, establish who has the edge going into the season properly. The match is scheduled to kick off at 8:00 PM ET at Fiserv Forum, and the match will be live on NHL TV. This encounter gives free NHL insights into the teams’ current position at this stage of their season.
St. Louis Blues vs. Chicago Blackhawks 10/5/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, October 5, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Fiserv Forum |
| TV: | NHL |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
St. Louis Blues (2-4-0) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (0-3-1)
The St. Louis Blues, despite a rocky start to the preseason, are demonstrating considerable offensive capabilities. Center Robert Thomas, with 86 points last season, alongside Jordan Kyrou’s 67 points, are set to challenge the Blackhawks’ defensive efforts. Their offensive dynamics, resembling the assertiveness of teams like the New Jersey Devils, will be critical in exploiting the Blackhawks’ defensive lapses. Effective utilization of their key scorers and power play strengths will be essential to dominate the ice.
Conversely, the Chicago Blackhawks, though struggling to secure wins, have potential offensive sparks in Connor Bedard and Philipp Kurashev, reminiscent of the depth seen in teams like the Washington Capitals. Bedard, a standout with 61 points in his previous season, along with Kurashev’s contributions, need to capitalize on any defensive weaknesses the Blues might expose. Their ability to convert on power plays could pivot the game in their favor, testing the Blues’ defensive resolve.
Goaltender Jordan Binnington vs. Goaltender Petr Mrazek
At 57 games under his name and a .913 save percentage last season, Jordan Binnington is still a mainstay for the Blues. Middle block defender Wise O’Piece added that Binnington will be important in containing the Blackhawks’ response rush as they will be looking to break out of a slump. If he can play as he practiced, he will undoubtedly become helpful in critical situations when there is a flagrant contest, which embodies the quality of experienced goalies in this league.
In this case, however, Petr Mrazek of the Blackhawks has to step up his game even after having a 3.05 goals against average last campaign. Mrazek’s experience along with his .908 save percentage shows that he is capable. Then again, the interaction with such players as Kyrou and Thomas will be interesting for them as it will test their reflexes and mentality, which are essential in establishing the defensive culture of the team.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Since this matchup is still in the preseason stage, lines and odds are currently absent, which is why they should be expecting some news as the date approaches. The analysis of the team’s skills and the available stats about the game mentioned above will make it easier to put a reasonable bet on the point spread and totals.
St. Louis Blues Betting Trends
The Blues have experienced both highs and lows in their preseason games but, with their reputation for performing well when it counts, have per positive road spread over their last season. Due to their history of covering the spread when the match is closely contested, they may be worth considering if the handicap is too generous based on their attacking options.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Trends
Even though they have not registered a victory in many games, the Blackhawks have been covering the spread in their recent contests. Such strength may be useful for gamblers who tend to back the underdog. The previous year, looking at the over situations for this team at home, there is a propensity towards higher scores game, including the OVER total, which is plausible subject to the total set.
St. Louis Blues vs. Chicago Blackhawks 10/5/24 Betting Picks
In conclusion, this preseason contest can even be considered as more than just a preparation, but rather a chance for both clubs to sort out their shortcomings and instill growing self-assurance. Regarding the Blues being worth considering for a possible bet on the cover, it should be mentioned that a proper approach to NHL gambling helps understanding the potential of the teams in attack, and the fighting woes of the Blackhawks in defense.
For a better pick, look at the total especially if it is conservative because of the preseason bias; both teams have underperformed in this aspect but have the potential to surprise. Premium picks and parlays in this case might prefer the OVER bet since the goaltenders are still getting off of the preseason rust.