NHL · December 18, 2025
Chicago Blackhawks @ Montreal Canadiens
Free LineCrush game report for Chicago Blackhawks @ Montreal Canadiens on December 18, 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
Bedard's Continued Absence Weighs Heavily on Chicago
Connor Bedard remains sidelined with an upper body injury not requiring surgery, keeping the Blackhawks' franchise centerpiece out until at least January 1. This ongoing absence significantly impacts Chicago's offensive depth and playmaking ability, especially critical for a team struggling at 13-14-6 this season.
Montreal's Defensive Depth Tested Without Matheson
The Canadiens will be without defenseman Mike Matheson on Thursday, having been ruled out with an upper body injury. Montreal enters the game at 17-12-4, so losing a key defensive contributor against Chicago's physical play presents a notable challenge for head coach Lindy Ruff's system.
Dobes Gets the Home Crease for Montreal
Jakub Dobes will start in goal for the Canadiens at Bell Centre, taking the net for Montreal in this matchup. This gives the home team confidence with a fresh goaltender facing a Chicago team that has struggled to find consistent offensive production this season.
Foligno's Potential Return Could Shift Chicago's Momentum
Nick Foligno (hand injury) traveled with the Blackhawks on their road trip and could potentially return against Montreal, providing a veteran presence and additional scoring depth. Even as a game-time decision, his availability could provide a psychological boost for a struggling team on the road.
Home Ice Advantage Favors Montreal's Record Trajectory
The Canadiens' 17-12-4 record at home (Bell Centre) gives them a clear advantage over the visiting Blackhawks' 13-14-6 mark. Montreal's recent form and better record position them as favorites in this divisional matchup on home ice.
Pick Ideas
Canadiens Moneyline
Montreal's superior record, home ice advantage, and healthier roster make them the logical choice against a Chicago team missing Connor Bedard and playing on the road.
Canadiens -1.5 Puck Line
With Dobes starting at home and Matthew out for Montreal being the only notable injury concern, the Canadiens should control this game against a Chicago team that has won just 13 of 33 games this season.
Under the Total
Chicago's offensive struggles (13-14-6 record) combined with Montreal's defensive system and Dobes making starts suggests a lower-scoring affair, favoring an under bet on this matchup.
Blackhawks Upset Special
If Foligno returns and Chicago gets desperate energy on the road, plus Montreal missing Matheson on defense, there's value in a Blackhawks upset moneyline at plus odds.