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Anaheim Ducks vs Chicago Blackhawks Preview
The Anaheim Ducks begin a demanding five-game road trip on Sunday with a visit to the Chicago Blackhawks — a place filled with memories for coach Joel Quenneville.
From 2008 to 2019, Quenneville led Chicago to three Stanley Cup championships and cemented himself as one of the most successful coaches in NHL history. Now, he returns behind a different bench, guiding a young Anaheim roster still finding its rhythm early in the season.
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Quenneville’s Emotional Return
Sunday marks Quenneville’s first trip back to the United Center since taking over in Anaheim this past May. He acknowledged the significance of revisiting the city where he built his legacy.
“We’re going to be busy,” Quenneville said. “Whatever’s coming, we’ve got to welcome it and be ready for the next one.”
The Ducks have shown flashes of potential under their new coach, starting 2-2-0 while emphasizing speed and structure. Their youth remains both an asset and a learning curve, with occasional lapses leading to costly turnovers.
Quenneville’s club is still seeking consistency. “It’s a work in progress,” he said. “We want to reach a standard and sustain it game after game.”
Team analytics and form comparisons can be reviewed on the NHL Teams page.
Ducks’ Rising Star vs Blackhawks’ Franchise Hope
Sunday’s game will feature a rare matchup between the top two selections of the 2023 NHL Draft. Anaheim’s Leo Carlsson, chosen second overall, has quickly adjusted to the pro level with six points over three games. His overtime winner against San Jose and lone goal in a 4-1 loss to Carolina highlighted his growing impact.
“He plays a lot of important minutes,” Quenneville said. “We need him to be a factor.”
Meanwhile, Chicago’s Connor Bedard — the No. 1 pick — continues to attract attention for his poise and skill. Bedard has six points through six games but endured a tough outing Friday against Vancouver, finishing without a point and committing three turnovers.
“I can’t say enough about his competitiveness and desire to win,” coach Jeff Blashill noted.
Bedard and Carlsson represent the future of their franchises, giving this early-season meeting extra intrigue.
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Chicago’s Early Momentum
The Blackhawks are trending upward with a three-game point streak (2-0-1). They jumped to a 2-0 lead against Vancouver on Friday but ultimately fell 3-2 in a shootout. Despite the loss, the progress is evident.
Blashill pointed to a lack of killer instinct after building the early advantage. “We got passive in the second period,” he said. “We should have walked out with two points.”
Chicago’s young core, featuring Bedard, Kevin Korchinski, and Lukas Reichel, continues to gain valuable experience while the goaltending tandem of Petr Mrazek and Arvid Soderblom provides stability.
Anaheim Seeking Faster Starts
The Ducks have allowed the opening goal in every game this season — a stat they hope to reverse. Despite that, Anaheim has competed hard, supported by Carlsson’s creativity and Troy Terry’s leadership.
“I think we’re ready at the start,” Quenneville said. “Maybe we’re just a bit hesitant. Every goal against has been different.”
If Anaheim can limit turnovers in transition and convert on the power play, they’ll have a chance to quiet the Chicago crowd early.
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Betting Trends
- Anaheim is 3-1 against the spread in its last four games
- Chicago is 2-0-1 in its past three overall
- The Ducks have hit the under in three of four
- Chicago is 5-1 in its last six home games vs Pacific Division opponents
- The total has gone under in four of the last six meetings between these clubs
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Prediction
Both teams are in transitional phases but showing promise. The Blackhawks’ home energy and improving depth may give them a slight edge, though the Ducks’ top-six forwards can test Chicago’s defense. Expect a tight, low-scoring battle decided by special teams and goaltending.
Projected Score: Chicago Blackhawks 3, Anaheim Ducks 2
Best Bet: Under 6 Goals (-110)
Lean: Chicago Blackhawks Moneyline (-130)
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