Chicago Blackhawks vs Ottawa Senators Picks and Predictions October 28th 2025

Ottawa Senators vs Chicago Blackhawks NHL Game Preview

The Ottawa Senators will visit the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at the United Center. Puck drop is set for 8:45 PM ET, with coverage available on ESPN+.

Ottawa (5-4-1) enters with its first winning record after 10 games in eight years, powered by an explosive top line that has produced 13 points in the last two games. Chicago (4-3-2) looks to bounce back after a 3-1 home loss to Los Angeles, ending its five-game point streak.

Line Movement and Odds

Ottawa opens as the road favorite following back-to-back seven-goal performances. The total is set at 5.5, with bettors favoring the over given Ottawa’s recent scoring surge.

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Ottawa Senators Outlook

The Senators are heating up offensively, posting consecutive seven-goal wins over Boston and Washington — the first time since 1993 they’ve achieved that feat. The retooled top line of Nick Cousins, Drake Batherson, and Tim Stützle has found instant chemistry, combining for 13 points across those two contests.

Head coach Travis Green’s system has clicked despite the absence of captain Brady Tkachuk (thumb). Ottawa ranks second in assists (66) and leads the league with 13 power-play goals. Stützle remains the offensive catalyst with his blend of speed and vision, while goaltender Joonas Korpisalo has provided stability between the pipes.

With strong puck control and improved defensive discipline, Ottawa’s biggest task will be maintaining consistency on the road, where they’ve gone 2-2 this season.

Ottawa Senators Injury Report

• Brady Tkachuk (LW) – Out, wrist injury

Chicago Blackhawks Outlook

The Blackhawks saw their momentum halted in Sunday’s 3-1 loss to Los Angeles but had won four of their previous five (4-0-1). Their offense has been streaky, averaging just over three goals per game.

Rookie star Connor Bedard continues to drive the offense with elite playmaking, while Ryan Donato’s four-game goal streak ended Sunday. The power play remains a concern after going 0-for-5 against the Kings, prompting coach Jeff Blashill to consider personnel changes.

Goaltender Spencer Knight has been a key factor, posting 177 saves in his last five starts. Chicago’s defensive physicality and forecheck will need to slow down Ottawa’s dynamic forwards to protect home ice.

Chicago Blackhawks Injury Report

• Tyler Bertuzzi – Questionable (undisclosed)
• Ilya Mikheyev – Questionable (upper body)
• Laurent Brossoit – Out (hip)
• Shea Weber – Out (lower body)

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The game hinges on whether Chicago’s defense can neutralize Ottawa’s surging top line. If the Blackhawks tighten up their penalty kill and limit second-chance shots, they can stay competitive.

For Ottawa, sustained puck possession and quick entries from Stützle and Batherson could overwhelm Chicago’s defense. Special teams may again be decisive, with the Senators’ league-leading power play facing a Blackhawks unit that’s struggled to convert.

Best Bets and Prediction

Ottawa’s offensive rhythm and power play give them the edge, even on the road. Chicago’s energy and home advantage could keep things close, but the Senators’ scoring depth and recent form make them the logical pick.

Projected Score: Ottawa Senators 4, Chicago Blackhawks 2
Best Bet: Ottawa Senators Moneyline (-139)
Secondary Lean: Over 5.5 Goals (-131)

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