As the NHL regular season kicks off, the Los Angeles Kings and Chicago Blackhawks are set to face each other at the United Center. The Kings, led by Head Coach Peter Laviolette, enter the game with a record of 3-5-2, while the Blackhawks, under Head Coach Jeff Blashill, hold a 3-8-0 record. This game, airing on ESPN+, presents an opportunity for both teams to improve their standing in the Western Conference.
The Kings have shown a mixed performance on the road with a 3-4-0 away record, but they are coming off a confidence-boosting victory against the New York Rangers, where they scored six goals. Key players like Drew Doughty and Artemi Panarin have been instrumental in their recent successes. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks are looking to bounce back from a three-game losing streak, having recently fallen to the Florida Panthers in a close 3-2 game.
With the Kings slightly favored with a moneyline of -120, they aim to capitalize on their recent winning momentum. Conversely, the Blackhawks, listed as the underdog with a moneyline of +102, will rely on standout performances from players like Connor Bedard and Spencer Knight to turn their fortunes around. The game's over/under is set at 5.5, suggesting an intriguing battle between the two Western Conference rivals.
Blackhawks vs Kings At a Glance
- Teams & Records: Los Angeles Kings (3-5-2) vs Chicago Blackhawks (3-8-0)
- Venue: United Center
- Game Time: Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at 8:00 PM
- TV Broadcast: ESPN+
- Game Odds: Los Angeles Kings are favored with a MoneyLine of -120
- Recent Form: Chicago Blackhawks are on a 3-game losing streak
Chicago Blackhawks: Challenges Await on the Road
Offensive Overview
The Chicago Blackhawks have struggled offensively this season, sitting at 19th in goals with 24. Their passing game hasn't fared much better, ranking 23rd in assists with 39. With only 235 shots on goal, they find themselves at the bottom of the league in this metric.
Despite their offensive challenges, the Blackhawks have had some success on the power play, ranking 12th with three power play goals. The team will need to capitalize on these opportunities to improve their standing.
Defensive Analysis
Defensively, the Blackhawks have allowed 40 goals, placing them 14th in the league. Their goaltending has been solid, with 294 saves ranking 9th overall. However, they have yet to record a shutout this season.
The Blackhawks' physical presence is also lacking, with only 178 hits, ranking 28th in the league. They will need to increase their physicality to disrupt their opponents' offensive flow.
Player Highlights
Patrick Kane has been a consistent contributor for the Blackhawks, tallying 7 points with 1 goal and 6 assists. His experience and playmaking ability remain crucial for Chicago's offensive efforts. Connor Bedard, although in limited action, has shown promise with 5 points in 5 games.
Roman Kantserov leads the team in goals with 4, showcasing his ability to find the back of the net. These players need to step up to provide the Blackhawks with a more balanced offensive attack.
Recent Game Performance
The Blackhawks have had a tough stretch recently, losing their last three games. A notable performance came against the Winnipeg Jets, where they secured a 4-3 victory. However, they have struggled to maintain this momentum, dropping subsequent games.
In their recent loss to the Florida Panthers, Ryan Greene and Roman Kantserov were the standout skaters, each scoring a goal. Improving consistency in their performances will be key moving forward.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 0-3 (0.0%)
- SU Last 5: 1-4 (20.0%)
- SU Last 10: 2-8 (20.0%)
- SU All Games: 2-8 (20.0%)
- SU as Underdog: 2-8 (20.0%)
- Puckline Last 3: 1-2 (33.3%)
- Puckline Last 5: 2-3 (40.0%)
- Puckline Last 10: 4-6 (40.0%)
- Puckline All Games: 4-6 (40.0%)
- Puckline as Underdog: 4-6 (40.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 0-3 (0.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 2-3 (40.0%)
- O/U Last 10: 5-5 (50.0%)
- O/U All Games: 5-5 (50.0%)
Los Angeles Kings: A Battle on the Ice
Team Overview
The Los Angeles Kings have had a mixed start to their 2027 season. With a current record of 2-5, the team is looking to find consistency in their performances. Despite some early challenges, they have shown potential in recent games.
Their offensive output ranks them 18th in goals with 27, and they have recorded 44 assists, placing them 20th. Their power play success ranks 10th with 5 goals, indicating some strength in special teams.
Key Players to Watch
Artemi Panarin has been a standout for the Kings, contributing 7 goals and 4 assists in 10 games. He continues to be a critical component of the team's offensive push.
Alex Laferriere has also made his presence felt with 2 goals and 7 assists. His physical play is evident with 27 hits and 9 blocks, showcasing his versatility.
Defensive Contributions
Defensively, Brandt Clarke has provided stability with 3 goals and 5 assists, along with 24 blocks. His all-around game is an asset to the Kings' blue line.
Drew Doughty remains a veteran presence, contributing both offensively and defensively. With 1 goal, 3 assists, and 12 blocks, Doughty continues to anchor the defense.
Goaltending Insights
Darcy Kuemper has been a key figure in net, with 3 wins in 7 games and 177 saves. His performances have kept the Kings competitive in close games.
Anton Forsberg has shared the goaltending duties, although he is still seeking his first win. With 76 saves in 4 games, he aims to provide reliable backup support.
Los Angeles Kings Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 2-1 (66.7%)
- SU Last 5: 2-3 (40.0%)
- SU Last 10: 2-5 (28.6%)
- SU as Underdog: 2-4 (33.3%)
- Puckline as Underdog: 3-3 (50.0%)
- O/U All Games: 3-4 (42.9%)
Blackhawks vs Kings Prediction: Kings -120
The Los Angeles Kings, despite their struggles early in the season, hold a slight edge over the Chicago Blackhawks with a better away record. The Kings have managed to secure three wins on the road, which is a positive sign when facing a Blackhawks team struggling at the United Center.
Chicago has been in a slump, losing their last three games, and their overall home performance has not been convincing. With their current form, the Blackhawks face an uphill task against a Kings team that recently ended their losing streak.
The Kings' defensive record, having conceded fewer goals than the Blackhawks, suggests they have a better chance of containing Chicago's offense. Los Angeles has been more efficient in away games, which should give them the upper hand in this matchup.
Considering the Kings' recent win and their ability to perform better on the road, they seem poised to take advantage of the Blackhawks' ongoing struggles. Expect a close game with the Kings emerging with a 3-2 victory over Chicago.
- Blackhawks vs Kings Prediction: Kings -120
- Blackhawks vs Kings Score: Kings 3 - Blackhawks 2
Disclaimer: Knup Predictions are for entertainment and informational purposes only. Must be 21+ where applicable. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Get more picks and sports insights in your inbox
Subscribe to the Knup newsletter for nightly NHL previews, sports business notes, and ecosystem updates.