Chicago Blackhawks vs Nashville Predators Pick and Prediction for Saturday January 10 2026

The Chicago Blackhawks conclude their four-game road trip as they face the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena on Saturday, January 10, 2026.1 This 8:00 PM EST matchup features two Central Division rivals currently battling to climb back into the playoff conversation. For expert analysis and daily wagering insights on the full slate of NHL action, be sure to check out the latest free NHL picks over at Winners and Whiners.

Chicago Blackhawks: Bedard’s Status Looms Large

The Blackhawks (18-18-7) have been surprisingly resilient, winning four of their last five games despite missing their biggest star. The status of Connor Bedard (44 points) remains the primary storyline. While he was initially ruled out through early January with a shoulder injury, Bedard returned to practice this week wearing a regular jersey. Coach Jeff Blashill has listed him as day-to-day, leaving a slight window for a surprise return tonight, though the team may opt for caution before their upcoming home stand.

Even without Bedard, the Blackhawks' offense exploded for seven goals against St. Louis on Wednesday. Tyler Bertuzzi has picked up the slack, leading the team with 22 goals, while Spencer Knight (2.62 GAA) has been a stabilizing force in net, winning three of his last four starts.

Nashville Predators: Hunting for Consistency

The Predators (20-19-4) are coming off a tight 2-1 shootout win over the Islanders but have struggled to put together a consistent run of victories. Nashville’s veteran core, led by Ryan O'Reilly (37 points) and Steven Stamkos (18 goals), has carried the team, but the depth scoring has been thin with Jonathan Marchessault sidelined on Injured Reserve.

Nashville’s defense, anchored by Roman Josi, will need to be sharper than it was in their previous outing against Edmonton, where they surrendered six goals. Juuse Saros (3.03 GAA) is the expected starter tonight; he has historically dominated the Blackhawks, but his numbers this season have been more human as the team in front of him adapts to a more offensive-minded system.

Chicago Blackhawks vs. Nashville Predators Prediction

Nashville won the first meeting this season 4-3, but Chicago is currently the hotter team. If Bedard is cleared to play, the momentum shifts significantly toward the Blackhawks. Even if he sits, Chicago's recent confidence makes them a dangerous underdog.

Chicago Blackhawks vs. Nashville Predators ATS Pick

• Pick: Chicago Blackhawks +1.5 (-145)

The Blackhawks have played exceptionally tight games recently, with four of their last five being decided by a single goal (or in a shootout). Nashville has struggled to put teams away, and their league-average penalty kill (81.4%) might struggle against a Chicago power play that has been clicking at 23% over the last two weeks. Expect Chicago to keep this within one goal, if not win outright.

Chicago Blackhawks vs. Nashville Predators Total Pick

• Pick: Over 6.0 (-115)

Chicago's defense is still a work in progress, allowing over 31 shots per game, while Nashville’s offense tends to open up at home. Both teams have elite individual talent that can capitalize on mistakes. With Bertuzzi and Stamkos both in scoring form, this game is likely to feature plenty of action in the offensive zones.