Vancouver Canucks at Chicago Blackhawks Picks and Predictions for Friday, October 17, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 10/17/2025, 12:00 AM ET

The Vancouver Canucks visit the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday night at the United Center, on ESPN+, with the opening faceoff at 9:30 PM ET. Vancouver (1–2–0) is fifth in the Pacific Division and will complete a back-to-back after playing Thursday night in Dallas. Chicago (2–2–1) is fourth in the Central Division after back-to-back wins, including an 8–3 victory over St. Louis on Wednesday. The Blackhawks have won two of their last three, while Vancouver has dropped two straight since a strong home opener. Score the winning goal with our NHL picks.

Vancouver Canucks Preview

The Canucks are still working to find consistency through the first week. Vancouver has scored 2.67 goals per game and allowed 3.00, struggling at even strength. Kiefer Sherwood has been the early spark with three goals in three games, while Arshdeep Bains has added two assists. Brock Boeser and Filip Chytil have also scored twice, giving Canucks much-needed scoring behind the top line.

Goaltender Thatcher Demko has been excellent, going 1–1–0 with a 1.54 goals-against average and a .944 save percentage. Vancouver’s penalty kill has been sharp at 91.7%, though the power play has yet to break through. Limiting defensive turnovers and finding more puck support in the offensive zone are priorities as the Canucks look to bounce back snapped a two-game skid.

Chicago Blackhawks Preview

Chicago has shown an improved offense during its last two outings, scoring 11 goals over the past two games. Frank Nazar and Connor Bedard share the team lead with six points, while Teuvo Teravainen has five assists, and Ilya Mikheyev has three goals. The Blackhawks’ power play has started to connect at 18.8%, and the penalty kill has tightened up at 81.8%.

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In net, Spencer Knight has posted a .920 save percentage and a 2.35 goals-against average across three starts. Arvid Soderblom is 1–0–1 in two appearances. Chicago has been moving the puck effectively and generating more chances from the slot. If the offense keeps that pace and the power play and penalty kill remain strong, the Blackhawks should win at home.

Goaltending Matchup

Vancouver: Thatcher Demko (1–1–0, 1.54 GAA, .944 SV%)

Chicago: Spencer Knight (1–2–0, 2.35 GAA, .920 SV%)

Demko has been Vancouver’s most reliable player, giving the Canucks a chance each night despite low scoring support. Knight has provided stable play for Chicago, controlling rebounds and handling high-danger shots on goal well. This matchup will be decided by which defense does a better job of limiting second looks around the net.

Vancouver Canucks at Chicago Blackhawks Prediction

Chicago’s attack is improving each time out, and home ice gives them the advantage. Vancouver has Demko, but with Chicago performing better on attack and playing well on the power play and penalty kill, the Blackhawks will come through with a home win on Friday. Final Score Prediction: Chicago Blackhawks wins 3-2.