NHL · January 15, 2026
Calgary Flames @ Chicago Blackhawks
Free LineCrush game report for Calgary Flames @ Chicago Blackhawks on January 15, 2026, 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 Return Provides Major Lift for Chicago
Connor Bedard returns to the lineup after missing recent games due to illness, giving the Blackhawks a significant boost heading into this matchup. The Blackhawks have struggled with a 5-7-1 record without Bedard this season, making his availability crucial for generating offense against a Calgary team allowing 2.97 goals per game.
Teravainen Absence Creates Depth Concerns for Chicago
Teuvo Teravainen will miss tonight's game due to an upper-body injury sustained Monday, forcing the Blackhawks to rely on third-line options including Ryan Donato, Oliver Moore, and Nick Lardis. This compounds an already thin roster dealing with an illness that has affected multiple players including Sam Lafferty.
Calgary's Offensive Struggles Continue
The Flames rank 31st in the NHL in goals per game and have won only one of their last five games. Nazem Kadri remains the team's only player with over 30 points, highlighting Calgary's offensive inefficiency and limited scoring depth needed to compete against an improving Blackhawks team.
Injury-Plagued Flames Face Multiple Absences
Calgary will be without Blake Coleman (injured reserve, expected back January 17), Martin Pospisil (LTIR), John Beecher (injured reserve), and several others. These absences severely limit lineup flexibility and put additional pressure on healthy forwards to produce output.
Goaltending Advantage Could Decide Close Contest
Chicago's Spencer Knight and Arvid Soderblom will face a Calgary team that ranks 30th in power play efficiency at 15.4%. If this game remains tight, goaltending performance may prove decisive, particularly for Chicago if Bedard's return energizes the defense.
Pick Ideas
Blackhawks Moneyline
Chicago favored at -120 with Bedard's return and Calgary's ongoing offensive struggles make the Blackhawks solid value at home despite recent roster disruptions.
Under 6 Goals
Calgary's 31st-ranked offense combined with Chicago's recent depth issues suggest a lower-scoring affair, making the under an attractive proposition.
Nazem Kadri Anytime Goal Scorer
As Calgary's primary scoring threat with 32 points, Kadri offers consistent upside and should see increased ice time against a depleted Chicago defense.