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Chicago (11-9-5) at Vegas (11-6-8)
- When: Dec 2 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, NV, USA
- TV: ESPN+
Chicago vs Vegas NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Vegas -290
Spread: Vegas -1.5 (-112)
Total: 6.5
Vegas Golden Knights Betting Breakdown
Vegas enters this matchup under a bright spotlight thanks to the long awaited return of Carter Hart, who has not appeared in an NHL game for nearly two years. The Golden Knights have not announced whether Hart or Akira Schmid will start, but it is clear the team plans to use both heavily with a long road swing ahead. Hart has been working himself back into game form with the AHL affiliate and insists he is physically and mentally ready if given the crease.
Vegas could use the reinforcement. Since losing Adin Hill early in the season, the Golden Knights have been stuck in neutral with a completely average stretch of results. Their goals against numbers have slipped, their overtime record is one of the worst in the league, and the defensive structure that usually defines them has not been as sharp. Still, this is a team with championship level pieces that tends to stabilize at home, especially against clubs they usually handle well.
Historically, Vegas has dominated this matchup with fifteen wins in twenty one meetings. The moneyline reflects that strength and the assumption that one of their goaltenders will provide enough stability to control the pace.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Breakdown
Chicago begins a tough four game western trip with a little momentum after snapping a losing skid in dramatic fashion. The comeback win over Anaheim showed real character, especially after falling behind three goals in the opening minutes. Connor Bedard completely took over, putting up four points and reminding everyone why he is already one of the most dangerous young scorers in the league.
Chicago has had major issues with consistency, starting slow in multiple games and relying on their young star to drag them back into contention. That approach is not sustainable against deeper teams, especially on the road. The Blackhawks have also struggled to generate reliable defensive support, which becomes even more challenging when facing a Vegas team that can roll pressure in waves when they get momentum at home.
The Blackhawks can absolutely score in bursts, but they also give up long stretches of defensive breakdowns, which puts them at a real disadvantage as underdogs here.
NHL Betting Edge & Prediction
Vegas has the stronger roster, the home edge and far more control of the game’s flow when they are locked in. Chicago offers danger through Bedard and quick counterattacks, but their defensive volatility makes them difficult to trust in a hostile environment. The Golden Knights should dictate territory and possession long enough to pull away.
Score Prediction: Golden Knights 4, Blackhawks 2
Pick: Vegas -1.5 (-112)
Total: Under 6.5 (-122)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
