The Colorado Avalanche have been up and down this month as they look to close out February with a victory.
The Avs head to the United Center Thursday night to battle the last-place Chicago Blackhawks, who are coming off a pair of tough home overtime losses.
Avalanche vs. Blackhawks odds
- Spread: Avalanche -1.5 (-113), Blackhawks +1.5 (-106)
- Total: Over 6.5 (+106), Under 6.5 (-130)
- Moneyline: Avalanche -285, Blackhawks +230
Odds via FanDuel
Avalanche vs. Blackhawks analysis, prediction
The Blackhawks lost to the Jets on Friday, 3-2, followed by a 3-2 setback to the Red Wings on Sunday on old friend Patrick Kane’s breakaway goal to extend Chicago’s losing streak to four games.
After closing out January with three consecutive victories, the Avalanche have stumbled to a 4-5-2 record in February, while winning only one road game. Colorado dominated Dallas on Tuesday, 5-1, highlighted by Nathan MacKinnon scoring his 35th goal of the season.
Colorado and Chicago have split a pair of meetings this season with the home team winning each time. The Blackhawks squeezed past the Avs, 3-2, at the United Center on Dec. 19, despite being outshot by Colorado, 37-22.
The Avalanche have scored two first-period goals in each of the two meetings with the Blackhawks this season.
Chicago has struggled in the first period recently, posting an 0-10-5 mark the last 15 games, while allowing a goal in the opening 20 minutes in nine straight contests.
Avalanche vs. Blackhawks pick
Backing Colorado for the entire game at -300 is a bit pricey, but a better look is take the Avalanche on the puck line (-0.5) in the first period at +112.
Chicago has not gotten off to good starts and Colorado has started strong the last two games against Toronto and Dallas.
- Pick: Avalanche first-period puck line -0.5 (+112 at FanDuel)
