Florida Panthers vs Chicago Blackhawks Picks and Predictions October 7th 2025

Florida Panthers vs Chicago Blackhawks – NHL Betting Preview

The Florida Panthers begin their quest for a third straight Stanley Cup but face a major setback out of the gate. Captain Aleksander Barkov and forward Matthew Tkachuk will both miss extended time due to injuries, leaving Florida short two elite stars as they host the Chicago Blackhawks.

Barkov, recovering from ACL and MCL surgery, is expected to miss the entire regular season, while Tkachuk is sidelined until December with a sports hernia. Despite the absences, veteran goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky will again anchor Florida in net, aiming to carry the defensive load early.

Chicago arrives under new head coach Jeff Blashill, inheriting one of the youngest rosters in the league led by 20-year-old center Connor Bedard. The Blackhawks are looking to establish structure and discipline after finishing last in the Central Division.

Florida Panthers can win if

The Panthers stay structured defensively and get consistent play from their depth forwards. With Barkov and Tkachuk sidelined, Florida’s success will depend heavily on Bobrovsky maintaining his form. The two-time Vezina winner posted a 2.44 GAA last season and remains one of the league’s most trusted playoff goalies.

Offensively, Sam Reinhart and Carter Verhaeghe must step into larger scoring roles. Both have proven capable of 30+ goal seasons, and Florida’s power play will lean on their finishing ability. Coach Paul Maurice’s system emphasizes puck possession and forechecking — crucial for neutralizing Chicago’s speed.

If Bobrovsky stays sharp and the Panthers control offensive-zone time, they can offset their missing stars and open with a statement win.

Chicago Blackhawks can win if

Chicago’s young core capitalizes on Florida’s depleted offense. Bedard led the team in points (67) and assists (44) last season, and his creativity will be key to generating early scoring chances. Spencer Knight, the 24-year-old ex-Panthers goaltender, is expected to start in net for Chicago — a storyline worth watching as he faces his former club.

Knight’s familiarity with Florida’s shooters could provide an edge. The Blackhawks will also look for steady play from veterans Anthony Beauvillier and Jason Dickinson, while defenseman Seth Jones anchors the blue line. Blashill’s emphasis on structure and defensive discipline gives Chicago a chance to hang around deep into the game.

If the Blackhawks win the special-teams battle and Bedard can exploit mismatches, an opening-night upset is possible.

Line Movement and Odds

Opening: Panthers -210 / Blackhawks +175
Current: Panthers -190 / Blackhawks +165
Puck Line: Panthers -1.5 (+125) / Blackhawks +1.5 (-145)
Total: 6.0 goals (Over -108 / Under -112)

Florida opened as a heavy favorite but early betting action has slightly trimmed the line, reflecting uncertainty around their missing stars. Check full updates and public movement on the NHL odds page.

Matchup Breakdown

Florida still boasts elite goaltending and defensive depth, but without Barkov and Tkachuk, scoring efficiency is the question. The Panthers ranked top five in expected goals and puck possession last season, driven by transition speed and forechecking intensity. Maurice’s challenge will be finding new chemistry in the top six.

Chicago, meanwhile, is entering a developmental phase but has upside. Bedard’s growth, combined with Knight’s opportunity in goal, marks a fresh start. The Blackhawks will try to use their youth and speed to stretch Florida’s defense.

See more team profiles and stats on the NHL teams page, and read early projections in the Central Division odds blog. For futures, check the Stanley Cup odds blog.

Injuries and Conditions

Florida Panthers

• Aleksander Barkov (ACL/MCL surgery) – out for season
• Matthew Tkachuk (sports hernia, adductor tear) – out until December

Chicago Blackhawks

• Laurent Brossoit (hip surgery) – out indefinitely

Indoor conditions at Amerant Bank Arena should favor quick puck movement, with no environmental factors expected.

Best Bets and Prediction

Florida’s defensive strength and goaltending depth should keep them ahead despite missing key scorers. Chicago’s rebuild and youth may lead to inconsistency, though Knight’s motivation facing his former team adds intrigue.

Prediction: Panthers 3, Blackhawks 2
Best Bet: Under 6 goals (-112)
Secondary Lean: Blackhawks +1.5 (-145)

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