Chicago Blackhawks Odds - Hawks poised to become top West contender
The Chicago Blackhawks odds sure look tempting for hockey betting fans this season. With a forward corps that’s deep, young and fast, and a blueline every team would give anything to have, the Blackhawks are just about the envy of the entire NHL. Do they have the goaltending – and experience – to break through and win a championship in 2010?
Chicago Blackhawks Odds: Goaltending only real question mark for deep, young, talented team
- Kane, Toews lead exciting offense
- No team has more high-end talent on defense
- Can Huet be “The Guy” in goal?
Chicago Blackhawks odds maker breakdown: OFFENSE
The Hawks can fill the net and should only get better. Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews are two of the game’s best young players; they’re not particularly physical but they’re lightning quick, they have soft hands and they’re not afraid to play in high-traffic areas. Big forwards like Dave Bolland, Andrew Ladd and Dustin Byfuglien (when he’s not playing defense) add size and strength to the top six. Marian Hossa’s ailing shoulders may keep him out for part of the season but the Hawks will still score plenty without him; imagine what they’ll do when the world-class sniper joins their lineup.
Chicago Blackhawks odds maker breakdown: DEFENSE
I’m betting every last general manager would trade his entire blueline – plus a first-round draft pick, his house and a fancy sports car – for the Blackhawks’ blueline. The trio of Brent Seabrook, Cam Baker and Duncan Keith give the Hawks three players with size, physicality, speed and puck-moving skills. Toss in Brian Campbell, arguably the NHL’s fastest defenseman, and you have a fantastic blueline that will only get better.
Chicago Blackhawks odds maker breakdown: GOALTENDING
Without a doubt, goaltending is the source of any sportsbook question marks for the Hawks this season. They let Nikolai Khabibulin walk in the offseason, meaning they will rely on Cristobal Huet as their starter. That wouldn’t have seemed like a bad idea a year ago but Huet is fresh off his worst, most inconsistent season. If he doesn’t step up, the Hawks will likely search for a replacement at the trade deadline.
Chicago Blackhawks odds maker breakdown: SPECIAL TEAMS
Special teams are more of an asset than a liability for the Hawks. The power play was solid last season and should only get better with all the Hawks’ creative, young offensive talent. The penalty kill needs a bit of work but the Hawks have the personnel to improve it. Keith is becoming a true shutdown guy and free-agent acquisition John Madden should really bolster the PK from the forward position.
Chicago Blackhawks odds maker breakdown: SEASON OUTLOOK
The Red Wings haven't improved, instead losing talent and gaining virtually nothing. Same goes for the Sharks so far. That means the door is wide open for Chicago to become the Western Conference’s top Stanley Cup contender. They should play deep into June this season and could very well end their season with a parade.
Visit our sportsbook for full Chicago Blackhawks odds and keep reading the Betting Edge for more sports betting tips and team previews. Who better to offer great sports betting and hockey tips than a native Canadian? Like any good Canuck, Don Melrose eats, sleeps, breathes and bets hockey, making him the perfect NHL handicapper. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.
