Blackhawks vs Maple Leafs: Preview and Key Matchup Details for December 2 NHL Game

The Chicago Blackhawks are set to face off against the Toronto Maple Leafs in an exciting NHL matchup on December 2, 2024, at 7:30 pm ET/4:30 pm PT at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada. The game promises to be a closely contested affair given the recent history between the two teams. The Blackhawks have had the upper hand in recent encounters, winning three of the last five games against the Maple Leafs, including a 4-3 overtime victory in their most recent meeting on November 25, 2023.

The Blackhawks, currently eighth in the Central Division with an 8-14-2 record, are looking to bounce back from a 6-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Sunday. Connor Bedard, who has been a key player for the Blackhawks, recorded two points in that game and continues to lead the team with 19 points in 24 games this season. The team’s power play has been strong, ranking eighth in the NHL with a 25% success rate.

The Toronto Maple Leafs, second in the Atlantic Division with a 14-7-2 record, are on a roll with three consecutive home wins. Their last victory was a 5-3 road win against the Tampa Bay Lightning, with goalie Joseph Woll making 38 saves for a .927 save percentage. Mitch Marner leads the Maple Leafs with 31 points, including nine goals and 22 assists.

From a betting perspective, the Maple Leafs are heavy favorites with odds of 1.28, indicating a 78% chance of winning. The total goals line is set at 6.5, with a prediction leaning towards an Under 6.5 goal outcome due to the defensive strengths of both teams.

Fans can watch the game on TVAS, Prime, and CHSN, or stream it live on ESPN+. The Blackhawks’ projected lineup includes Taylor Hall, Connor Bedard, and Philipp Kurashev on the top line, while the Maple Leafs will likely feature Matthew Knies, Auston Matthews, and William Nylander on their top line.

Injuries and suspensions will also play a role, with the Blackhawks missing Seth Jones and Laurent Brossoit, and the Maple Leafs dealing with several injuries including Jake McCabe, Jani Hakanpaa, and Max Pacioretty.