The second game in Chicago’s three out of four matchups is underway, with the Blackhawks aiming to impede the progress of one of the league’s top-skating teams. Jack Hughes, a former #1 overall pick in 2019, is having another prolific season with nearly 1.5 points per game.

Hughes and the Devils will witness Connor Bedard up close on their home ice, as the Blackhawks, currently at the bottom of the league standings, seek to transform the expected blowout into an unеxpеctеd triumph.

Despite being considered a Stanley Cup contender at the start of the season, the Devils’ performance has been inconsistent, primarily due to injuries. Still, their 6-3-1 record and 13 out of 20 points are commendable as they aim to ascend in the standings, hosting a team with just 5 points and a three-game losing streak.

Scoring rеmains a challenge for the Blackhawks, who have managed only one goal in their last six periods of play. Will they find a way through a New Jersey team eager to secure an early victory?

The return of Colin Blackwell has brought a positive impact to Chicago. His aggrеssivе play, solo rushes, and commitment in board battles have been both noticeable and much-needed. In the absence of key players, having this depth option back is a welcome boost for the Blackhawks, who hope for improved health in the new year.

With the addition of Connor Bedard, the youngest player in NHL history to make an All-Star team, the game’s outcome becomes unpredictable. So, let’s drop the puck and demonstrate to the Devils the challenges of looking up at a scoreboard that doesn’t favor them!