A new era in the NHL will begin on Tuesday night, as Utah Hockey Club makes its first appearance as a team since their relocation from Arizona. Their first game is at home against a Chicago Blackhawks team that struggled a season ago, as one of these teams looks to start their season with a win in Utah. Here, you will find our NHL betting picks for Blackhawks vs Utah Hockey Club.
Blackhawks Hoping For Better In 2024-25
Last season was a disaster for the Chicago Blackhawks, as they finished 23-53-6 on the year. Their 52 points were the second-fewest in the NHL, with only the Arizona Coyotes faring worse in that department. This season, the Blackhawks will hope to get off to a better start, thanks in part to the return of their young star to the ice. Connor Bedard is back for his second season as a pro after a productive rookie campaign. His health and overall level of play will be a huge indicator as far as how this season goes for Chicago, starting with opening night.
Utah Hockey Club Makes NHL Debut
Last season, Utah Hockey Club was the Arizona Coyotes. They missed the playoffs last year and are hoping for better this time around. They are also hoping that a change of scenery injects some life back into the franchise, as they go from playing at Arizona State’s college hockey arena to Utah’s Delta Center. There are still some kinks to work out with their new home, such as large sections of seating being blocked from seeing one of the goals. But that shouldn’t deter the crowd in Utah from being out in full force on opening night tonight.
Blackhawks vs Utah Hockey Club Best Bet
Our best bet for this Blackhawks vs Utah Hockey Club contest is for Utah Hockey Club to win and cover the puckline as a home favorite. UHC should be able to take advantage of the fact that the Blackhawks had the second-worst goal differential in hockey last season and they should be able to deliver a very satisfying result to their fans in their first night of this chapter in their history.
