NHL · December 12, 2025
Chicago Blackhawks @ St. Louis Blues
Free LineCrush game report for Chicago Blackhawks @ St. Louis Blues on December 12, 2025, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Blackhawks Capitalize on Momentum Against Struggling Blues
Chicago arrives in St. Louis riding a dominant 3-0 shutout victory over the Rangers, while the Blues suffered a demoralizing 7-2 loss to Nashville on Thursday. The Blackhawks' recent form and offensive firepower provide a significant advantage against a St. Louis team clearly struggling defensively.
Bedard's Elite Production Continues to Lead Chicago
Connor Bedard has reached 42 points (19G, 23A) and cracked the scoresheet in five of the Blackhawks' last six games, establishing himself as a consistent difference-maker. His playmaking and scoring ability should exploit a Blues defense that just allowed seven goals in one period.
Frank Nazar's Breakout Season Adds Offensive Depth
The 21-year-old Frank Nazar has emerged as an unexpected star, currently tied for third in NHL scoring with 5 points in just the season's opening games. His increased ice time (averaging 19:53 per game) and contributions across all situations provide Chicago with secondary scoring power that St. Louis cannot match.
Goaltender Advantage Favors Chicago's Knight
Spencer Knight earned his second shutout of the season on Wednesday and is 3-1-1 over his last five starts with a 2.57 GAA. Meanwhile, Joel Hofer may start for the Blues after entering in relief Thursday, creating uncertainty against a Chicago team that has dominated recent opponents.
St. Louis Depleted by Multiple Injuries and Poor Timing
The Blues are without Jordan Kyrou, Jimmy Snuggerud, Alexey Toropchenko, Nathan Walker, and Nick Bjugstad, significantly limiting their depth and offensive options. Combined with their recent defensive breakdown, St. Louis cannot afford another poor performance and faces an uphill battle against a confident Blackhawks squad.
Blackhawks' Revenge Factor from Earlier Matchup
Chicago dominated St. Louis 8-3 earlier in the season, demonstrating the ability to generate significant offensive volume. The Blackhawks' structured approach under Jeff Blashill has proven effective, and they should replicate that success given the Blues' current vulnerability.
Pick Ideas
Blackhawks Moneyline
Chicago's momentum, superior goaltending, and elite offensive weapons provide strong value against a reeling Blues team missing key personnel and still recovering from Thursday's blowout loss.
Under Total Goals
Despite Chicago's offensive prowess, the Blues' defensive struggles and Joel Hofer's need to stabilize the position suggest a lower-scoring affair than the teams' season averages.
Connor Bedard Over Assists
Bedard's elite playmaking and the Blues' defensive gaps create an ideal environment for his distribution, making his assist total a strong play.
Blackhawks -1.5 Puck Line
Chicago's comprehensive advantages—momentum, health, depth, and goaltending—should result in a multi-goal victory margin against a fragmented Blues roster.