The series between the Chicago Blackhawks and St. Louis Blues couldn't possibly be closer. A matter of centimeters has decided both of the first two games, and not surprising, these two division rivals are level at a game apiece as we head back to the Windy City for Game 3.
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ODDS ANALYSIS
Game 2 of this series was effectively lined at a pick 'em after the Blues won Game 1 as -138 favorites. Normally, home ice advantage would be substantial, but in a series like this one where games are all going to be incredibly gritty, that won't necessarily be the case.
Yes, the Blackhawks will be favored in this one, but the margin won't be all that large.
Keep an eye on the total. This series has only featured six total goals, one of which was into an empty net and one of which came as time expired and was of no consequence whatsoever.
We could reasonably see a 4.5 put on the board for the first time in these Stanley Cup Playoffs.
GOALIE REPORT
The final tally will say that Corey Crawford allowed two goals on 31 shots on Friday night, but anyone who watched that game knows better. Kevin Shattenkirk's last-second goal didn't mean a thing since the score was 3-1 at the time. Effectively, Crawford has stopped 46 of the 48 shots sent his way in this series, and if that keeps up, the Blackhawks are going to be in great shape.
It's not like Brian Elliott has been bad, though. He posted a shutout on 35 shots in Game 1 of this series, and he only allowed two of the three goals in Game 2. The second of those goals was incredibly controversial, as Andrew Shaw was clearly in the painted area when he shoved the puck just barely past him for what proved to be the difference-maker with just 4:19 to play.
LIVE BETTING
The best player on the ice thus far in this series has been Vladimir Tarasenko. He scored the first goal of the game in the second period, and he would've had the go-ahead goal in the third if not for a challenge by Joel Quenneville which ruled the Blues to be offside by a smidgen.
Tarasenko scored 40 goals in the regular season, and he now has seven goals in his last eight games overall.
QUICK PICK
Game 3 should once again end up being a game of inches. We clearly expect these hated rivals to play to a tightly-contested, white-knuckle brawl once again. It's unbelievable that Game 2 ended up pushing the total, but we don't think this one is going to get there. These two goalies are just playing too well right now to be beaten five times or more.
Duncan Keith played 31 minutes in his first game back on the ice after two weeks on the shelf suspended, and he had a goal and an assist. The Blackhawks are just different when he's on the ice, and we think he'll do enough of the little things to help lead the Blackhawks to a narrow Game 3 victory.
NHL Odds: Chicago 2, St. Louis 1
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Mobile betting lines are updated by the minute, so click here to start gambling on thrilling live action at BookMaker Sportsbook! Game 3 of the series between the St. Louis Blues and the Chicago Blackhawks will start at 3:00 p.m. ET on Sunday, April 17, 2016 at the United Center. The contest will be broadcast nationally on NBC.
