Betting tips from AI for Los Angeles Kings vs Chicago Blackhawks, 05 December 2025.

Los Angeles come into this matchup as clear favorites at 1.45. Drew Doughty taking part in full practice and likely returning tightens a blue line that's been decisive late; the Kings are 8-2-2 in one-goal games and already beat Chicago 3-1 this season.

Chicago's goaltending looks unsettled after Laurent Brossoit was activated then sent to Rockford for conditioning, and the Hawks have surrendered 3.5 goals per game over their last 10. Connor Bedard (17g, 20a) keeps them dangerous, but defensive holes persist.

The prudent $1 play is the Los Angeles Kings moneyline at 1.45. The draw at 4.76 is a longshot, and Chicago at 2.93 carries too much downside given recent form.

The Kings are looking formidable heading into this Western Conference clash. The potential return of Drew Doughty from injury, who participated in full practice, provides a significant boost to their blue line and overall defensive strength. This comes at a crucial time as they've already proven their mettle in tight games, boasting an impressive 8-2-2 record in one-goal contests. This resilience, combined with their 3-1 victory in the previous encounter against the Blackhawks, paints a clear picture of their dominance.

On the other side, the Blackhawks continue to struggle defensively, conceding an average of 3.5 goals per game over their last 10 outings. While Connor Bedard's offensive prowess is undeniable, his individual brilliance may not be enough to overcome the team's defensive frailties, especially against a Kings team that has shown a knack for winning close games. The activation of Laurent Brossoit to Rockford for a conditioning stint means their usual starter will likely be in net, which doesn't necessarily inspire confidence given the team's recent defensive woes. Considering the Kings' strong form, defensive solidity, and the Blackhawks' struggles, the Kings at 1.45 offer a good betting opportunity.

The Kings look poised to secure another win against the Blackhawks in this Western Conference matchup. Drew Doughty's potential return provides a significant defensive upgrade for Los Angeles, who already boast an impressive 8-2-2 record in one-goal games this season. This resilience in tight contests demonstrates their composure under pressure.

Chicago's defensive struggles are concerning, allowing 3.5 goals per game over their last 10 outings. Despite Connor Bedard's offensive production (17G, 20A), the Blackhawks' goaltending situation remains unsettled with Brossoit on conditioning assignment.

Los Angeles already proved they have Chicago's number with a 3-1 victory in their first meeting this season. Kevin Fiala's consistent offensive output (10G, 8A) combined with home-ice advantage makes the Kings at 1.45 the solid play, despite the modest return. The Blackhawks at 2.93 simply don't offer enough value given their defensive liabilities and road disadvantage.

The Los Angeles Kings are set to host the Chicago Blackhawks in a pivotal Western Conference NHL matchup, and all signs point to a Kings victory. With Drew Doughty potentially returning from injury after full practice, LA's blue line gets a massive upgrade, bolstering their already stout defense. The Kings have been clutch in tight games, boasting an 8-2-2 record in one-goal thrillers this season, while Chicago's defense has been leaky, surrendering 3.5 goals per game over their last 10 outings.

This is the second clash between these squads, following LA's 3-1 win in the first meeting. Chicago's Connor Bedard is a scoring machine with 17 goals and 20 assists, but the Blackhawks' goaltending situation remains shaky without Laurent Brossoit, leaving their starter to face LA's potent attack led by Kevin Fiala's consistent production (10 goals, 8 assists).

Given the odds—Kings at 1.45, Blackhawks at 2.93, and draw at 4.76—the value lies in backing the home favorite. LA's momentum in the conference race makes them the smart play for bettors seeking reliability over risk.

The Los Angeles Kings are bolstered by Drew Doughty's return, adding critical depth to their blue line for this home matchup. Chicago's defensive struggles, allowing 3.5 goals per game over their last 10, pose a significant challenge, especially with goalie Laurent Brossoit out for conditioning.

Los Angeles has excelled in close games with an 8-2-2 record in one-goal contests, and they previously defeated Chicago 3-1 this season. While Connor Bedard remains a threat for the Blackhawks, the Kings' home advantage and consistent form make them the safer pick at odds of 1.45.

The Los Angeles Kings enter this matchup as favorites with odds of 1.45, and for good reason. Drew Doughty's potential return to the lineup could be a game-changer, solidifying their defense against a Chicago Blackhawks team that has struggled mightily on that end, conceding 3.5 goals per game over their last 10 contests. The Kings have also shown resilience in tight games, boasting an impressive 8-2-2 record in one-goal decisions this season. This ability to grind out wins will be crucial against a Blackhawks squad eager to prove themselves.

Chicago, however, isn't without its threats. Connor Bedard continues to dazzle, leading the team with 17 goals and 20 assists. His offensive firepower gives the Blackhawks a fighting chance, even as underdogs at 2.93. But while Bedard is a star, he can't carry the entire team alone, especially with Laurent Brossoit still working his way back to full form after being sent to Rockford for conditioning. The absence of a reliable backup option in net looms large for Chicago.

Historically, Los Angeles holds the edge in this season’s series, having won the previous encounter 3-1. Their consistency, bolstered by Kevin Fiala's steady contributions (10 goals, 8 assists), makes them a safer bet. With home ice advantage and momentum from recent performances, backing the Kings at 1.45 seems like the smart play despite the lower payout.