Colorado Avalanche vs Chicago Blackhawks Picks and Predictions for Friday March 20 2026
Use Code PPWC
The Colorado Avalanche head to the United Center in Chicago, Illinois to take on the Chicago Blackhawks with puck drop set for 8:30 PM and televised on ESPN+. Colorado enters this matchup as a heavy -258 favorite, with the total set at 6.5 goals and the puck line at Colorado -1.5. This Western Conference matchup features a dominant Avalanche team looking to bounce back against a rebuilding Blackhawks squad. Be sure to check out our free NHL picks for more daily betting insights and expert analysis.
Avalanche Aim to Rebound on the Road
The Colorado Avalanche come into this game with a 44-13-10 record, including an impressive 21-7-5 mark on the road. In their last five games, they have recently lost to the Dallas Stars, Pittsburgh Penguins, Winnipeg Jets, and Edmonton Oilers, while recently winning over the Seattle Kraken. Despite the recent skid, Colorado remains one of the top teams in the league.
The Avalanche are averaging 3.69 goals per game, one of the best offensive outputs in the NHL, while allowing just 2.48 goals per game. They generate 33.7 shots per game and allow only 26.3 shots, showing their ability to control both ends of the ice. Their power play has scored 35 goals at a 16.1% rate, while their penalty kill stands strong at 82.6%.
One of Colorado’s biggest strengths is their ability to dominate possession and create scoring chances through volume shooting. Even during their recent losses, they have remained competitive, and their defensive structure continues to limit high-quality opportunities. Their balanced attack and strong defensive metrics make them a dangerous bounce-back candidate in this spot.
Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Subscribe Now
Blackhawks Searching for Stability at Home
The Chicago Blackhawks enter this contest with a 25-30-12 record, including a 13-15-6 mark at home. In their last five games, they have recently won over Utah twice, while recently losing to the Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, and Dallas Stars. Chicago has been competitive but has struggled to close out games, particularly in overtime situations.
Offensively, the Blackhawks are averaging 2.61 goals per game, which is below league average, while allowing 3.16 goals per game. They generate just 24.4 shots per game and allow 29.4 shots, which puts additional pressure on their defense. Their power play has produced 37 goals at a 19.2% rate, and their penalty kill has been solid at 84.5%.
Chicago’s biggest challenge in this matchup will be handling Colorado’s pace and offensive pressure. While their special teams have been respectable, their inability to generate consistent offense and their negative shot differential could be significant disadvantages. Against a team like Colorado, they will need to play nearly perfect defensively to stay competitive.
Avalanche vs Blackhawks Pick
Avalanche vs Blackhawks Pick
- Colorado Avalanche -1.5
Colorado has a clear edge across the board in this matchup. Even with their recent losses, they remain far superior offensively and defensively compared to Chicago. The Avalanche’s ability to generate shots and control possession should lead to sustained offensive pressure, while Chicago’s lack of scoring depth will make it difficult to keep up. With Colorado also playing well on the road, the puck line is the best value here.
Avalanche vs Blackhawks Total Pick
- Over 6.5
I like the over in this game because Colorado’s offense is capable of carrying the total on its own, and Chicago should be able to contribute enough to push this game over the number. The Avalanche’s high shot volume and scoring ability, combined with Chicago’s defensive inconsistencies, create a strong case for a higher-scoring game.
Final Score Prediction: Colorado Avalanche 5, Chicago Blackhawks 2
This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Thursday.
Never Tried Picks and Parlays? Now Is Your Chance
- Get your first daily picks package for ONLY $1 using coupon code BUCK
- If the pick loses, we credit your account with 3 Flex Picks
- If the pick wins, we still give you 1 Flex Pick on the house
- Win or lose, you walk away ahead. One dollar. No catch.
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days
New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $200 in Bonuses Instantly!
