NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Washington Capitals vs Chicago Blackhawks Picks and Predictions – January 9, 2026
The Washington Capitals head to the United Center on Friday night to take on the Chicago Blackhawks in a cross-conference battle with different trajectories. Puck drop is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET, with the Capitals listed as -149 road favorites and the total set at 6.0.
Washington is firmly in the playoff hunt but still fighting for consistency in a crowded Metropolitan Division. Meanwhile, Chicago remains in a long-term rebuild, though their young core continues to gain reps and occasionally make bettors sweat as underdogs. This is a spot where motivation, depth, and special teams discipline could swing the outcome.
Bet With Confidence, Not Guesswork
Data + Discipline = Results
Washington Capitals vs Chicago Blackhawks Odds
These are the current betting lines for Friday’s matchup. Be sure to check the latest NHL odds for live movement and updated prices.
| Team | Moneyline | Puck Line | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Capitals | -149 | -1.5 (+160) | O 6.0 (-110) |
| Chicago Blackhawks | +125 | +1.5 (-190) | U 6.0 (-110) |
Washington Capitals Betting Form
The Capitals are coming off a mixed stretch, hovering around .500 in their last 10 games, but they’ve generally handled weaker opponents well. Defensively, they’ve tightened up, limiting high-danger chances and doing a solid job protecting the front of the net. Charlie Lindgren and Darcy Kuemper have split time, but Lindgren has quietly put up better numbers lately.
Offensively, it’s still a top-heavy group led by Ovechkin, but some of the younger secondary scorers are starting to contribute. The power play is creeping back toward average after a cold spell in December. This feels like a spot where they should dictate play if they stay out of the box. Be sure to monitor the Washington Capitals injury report for final lineup news, and track full Washington Capitals stats and results before betting.
Chicago Blackhawks Betting Form
Chicago is still in development mode, and the record shows it. They’ve dropped seven of their last ten, and their defensive numbers are rough — near the bottom of the league in expected goals against and penalty kill efficiency. The goaltending has been overwhelmed, and it’s hard to fault them when they’re regularly facing 35+ shots per night.
Connor Bedard has shown flashes, but the team lacks scoring depth, and their transition game is inconsistent. At home, they’ve been slightly more competitive, but they’re still one of the worst ATS teams as underdogs. Any lineup updates will be important, so check the Chicago Blackhawks injury report before making a move. Full Chicago Blackhawks schedule and stats are also helpful to analyze their trends.
Washington Capitals vs Chicago Blackhawks Matchup Breakdown
This is a matchup Washington should control — stylistically and structurally. Chicago bleeds chances in transition, and the Capitals’ veteran forwards are still capable of punishing breakdowns. On special teams, the edge is clearly with Washington, both on the kill and the man advantage.
Key angles worth noting:
- Washington ranks top-10 in 5-on-5 expected goals allowed
- Chicago’s penalty kill is below 75% and gets worse late in games
- Puck possession and faceoff win rate tilt in Washington’s favor
- Goaltending edge (if Lindgren starts) strongly favors the Caps
The biggest concern with the total is Chicago’s ability to score. Washington has played a lot of Unders this season due to solid defense and streaky offense. Unless the Blackhawks generate multiple PP opportunities, it’s hard to project more than 5–6 total goals here. That said, Washington could pop for 4+ themselves if they push tempo.
For sharp bettors looking to sharpen edges on this type of matchup, refer to this NHL betting guide to reinforce betting fundamentals.
Access the Top Sports Picks in Real Time
Never Miss a Winning Edge Again
Washington Capitals vs Chicago Blackhawks Predictions and Best Bets
This is a lean toward Washington on the moneyline, even at -149. It’s not a massive edge, but they’re the better team in every key area — and they’ve historically handled teams in Chicago’s tier. If you want a better price, there’s a reasonable case to take Washington -1.5 (+160), though it comes with risk since the Capitals often play close games.
As for the total, the Under 6.0 makes sense here unless Washington breaks the game open. Chicago’s scoring inconsistency and goaltending struggles suggest volatility, but Washington’s road pace has been slower.
If you’re playing just one angle — take the moneyline and live with the juice.
Best Bet: Washington Capitals moneyline (-149).
NHL Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Looking to expand your betting board? ScoresAndStats delivers high-volume NHL betting coverage every day. Whether you’re looking for strong sides, totals, or niche props, the today’s NHL picks section breaks it all down with expert insights and transparency.
Track performance through the handicapper leaderboard and discover the best value from our top sports handicappers. If you’re looking to go premium, explore our full range of buy expert picks with in-depth analysis and long-term profit focus.
