Pittsburgh Penguins vs Chicago Blackhawks Picks and Predictions for Sunday December 28 2025
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The Pittsburgh Penguins hit the road on Sunday night to take on the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center, with puck drop scheduled for 7:00 PM ET on ESPN+. Pittsburgh enters this matchup trying to steady itself after a rough stretch, while Chicago is looking to snap a prolonged losing streak on home ice. For bettors searching for free NHL picks, this game presents a classic clash between an inconsistent road team and a struggling home side.
Pittsburgh Penguins Form, Injuries, and Road Outlook
Pittsburgh Penguins come into this matchup with a 15-12-9 overall record and an 8-6-4 mark away from home. While the road numbers are respectable, recent form is a concern. The Penguins have lost four of their last five games, including back-to-back shutout losses, and have allowed at least four goals in four of those five contests. Defensive breakdowns and inconsistent goaltending have defined this stretch.
Statistically, Pittsburgh averages 3.03 goals per game while allowing 3.17, numbers that reflect a team often caught in high-event games. The power play has been a major bright spot at 29.3%, giving the Penguins a dangerous edge when opportunities arise. However, with multiple injuries down the middle and on the blue line—including Evgeni Malkin on injured reserve—depth and puck management remain serious concerns, especially on the road.
Chicago Blackhawks Home Ice and Current Struggles
Chicago Blackhawks enter Sunday at 13-17-6 overall and 7-7-3 at home, but the recent trend has been bleak. Chicago has dropped five straight games and has struggled to generate sustained offense during that span, scoring two goals or fewer in four of those contests. Home ice has not provided much relief, as defensive-zone pressure continues to overwhelm them.
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The Blackhawks are averaging 2.75 goals per game while allowing 3.11, and opponents are generating over 30 shots per game against them. Chicago’s power play sits at 20.4%, respectable but not dominant enough to offset even-strength struggles. With Connor Bedard listed on injured reserve, Chicago’s offensive ceiling is significantly lowered, placing even more pressure on defensive structure and goaltending.
Goaltending Breakdown and Defensive Concerns
Pittsburgh’s goaltending tandem has been serviceable but volatile. Stuart Skinner has logged the bulk of the work with a 2.98 goals-against average and an .885 save percentage, while Arturs Silovs has similar numbers with a 3.22 GAA. Neither option has consistently stolen games during this recent losing stretch, which is problematic against any opponent capable of capitalizing on mistakes.
Chicago holds a slight edge in net based on the numbers provided. Spencer Knight has posted a strong 2.55 goals-against average with a .914 save percentage, offering some stability behind a defense that allows heavy shot volume. If Knight starts, Chicago will have a chance to keep this game competitive, even if offensive support remains limited.
Matchup Edges and Betting Outlook
This game largely comes down to which team can better manage its weaknesses. Pittsburgh has the offensive upside and elite power-play efficiency to break through, but defensive lapses and injuries make them unreliable favorites. Chicago lacks scoring depth, especially with key injuries, but their goaltending and penalty kill (84.0%) provide a path to staying within striking distance.
From a betting standpoint, Pittsburgh’s power play versus Chicago’s discipline is a key swing factor. If the Penguins generate consistent man-advantage chances, they should control the game. However, if this stays at five-on-five, Chicago’s structure and goaltending could keep things tight longer than expected. Betting on sports and on the Blackhawks is easy, but even easier if you use the best sportsbooks. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for the Penguins with the Novig promo code. Make sure when you place your bet on Penguins vs Blackhawks you are using the BetMGM bonus code.
Final Score Prediction
Pittsburgh Penguins 3, Chicago Blackhawks 2
Pittsburgh’s special teams make the difference in a close, lower-scoring game, as the Penguins edge out Chicago with a late goal to snap their skid.
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