Game Preview and Standings
Chicago Blackhawks sit fourth in the Central Division with a 13-11-6 record, earning 32 points. They trail leaders Colorado (51 points) and Dallas (47 points) but hold an edge over St. Louis (11-14-7, 29 points). This game is the second of four meetings this season; St. Louis won the first on October 15.
The Blackhawks' recent form shows resilience, particularly away from home at 6-6-3. St. Louis struggles at home (5-7-4), amplifying pressure on coach Jim Montgomery's squad. Analysts favor Chicago slightly, with Blues listed as -110 moneyline favorites pre-game.
Watch for divisional implications: a Blackhawks win pulls them further ahead, while a Blues victory reignites their playoff push amid a crowded mid-table battle with Utah, Winnipeg, and Nashville.
Projected Lineups and Injuries
Blackhawks projected lineup: Ryan Greene -- Connor Bedard -- Andre Burakovsky; Oliver Moore -- Frank Nazar -- Tyler Bertuzzi; and more, with Dominic Toninato scratched and Nick Foligno out (hand). The unchanged roster from their Rangers win emphasizes continuity under coach Luke Richardson.
Blues projected lineup: Jake Neighbours -- Robert Thomas -- Pavel Buchnevich; Dylan Holloway -- Brayden Schenn -- Mathieu Joseph; Pius Suter -- Dalibor Dvorsky -- Robby Fabbri. Injuries plague St. Louis: Jordan Kyrou (lower body), Jimmy Snuggerud (wrist), Alexey Toropchenko (leg burns), Nathan Walker and Nick Bjugstad (upper body).
Goaltender decisions loom large. Chicago's Drew Commesso impressed recently, while Blues' Jordan Binnington faltered Thursday, opening the door for Joel Hofer. These absences test depth on both sides.
How to Watch and Predictions
Catch the action live on ESPN+, Hulu, SN, and TVAS starting at 8 p.m. ET (1:00 AM UTC December 13). Streaming options include ESPN app for U.S. viewers and NHL.tv globally. Live scores available on Sofascore and Flashscore.
Predictions lean toward a close contest. Blackhawks' momentum and Blues' home desperation suggest over 6 goals, with Chicago's offense exploiting St. Louis' defensive woes. Robert Thomas (14A, 4PP) remains a Blues X-factor despite recent minus ratings.
Fans can buy tickets via Vivid Seats. This game impacts playoff positioning, with Chicago eyeing a wild card spot and St. Louis needing wins to avoid the basement.