The March 13, 2025, game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the San Jose Sharks provides an important opportunity for both teams to claim a much-needed victory as they look to improve their standings. With both teams struggling this season, this matchup offers the possibility of a key turning point. The Blackhawks have a 17-31-7 record, ranking at the bottom of the Central Division. Their offense has been lackluster, averaging just 2.69 goals per game (28th in the league). Despite their offensive struggles, they have also faced major challenges defensively, allowing 3.44 goals per game, tied for 30th in the NHL. Their power play operates at 21.6% efficiency (26th), and their penalty kill is ranked 29th at 75%, contributing to their overall struggles this season. In terms of betting, both teams have shown similar issues. The Blackhawks have struggled against the spread (ATS), covering in only 3 of their last 10 games. Their offensive inefficiencies and defensive lapses have hindered their ability to perform consistently. The Sharks, who have a 15-35-7 record, face similar difficulties. They have shown only modest improvement in recent games, covering the spread in 4 of their last 10 matchups. Like the Blackhawks, the Sharks rank near the bottom in both offensive and defensive categories, which has made it difficult for them to string together wins. Defensively, both teams rank among the league’s worst. The Blackhawks have conceded 3.44 goals per game, tied for 30th in the league, while the Sharks allow a league-high 3.72 goals per game. These defensive struggles mean that both teams are vulnerable to high-scoring affairs, making special teams play especially important. The Blackhawks’ penalty kill sits at 75% (29th), and their power play operates at a mere 21.6% efficiency, ranking 26th.

The Sharks aren’t much better, with a penalty kill rate of 75.4% (24th), and their power play ranks 26th in the league at 17.9%. In their previous encounter on October 17, 2024, the Blackhawks managed to secure a 4-2 victory over the Sharks. This win was part of a string of successes for the Blackhawks over San Jose, winning 5 straight games against them in the past few seasons. With Chicago’s recent dominance in these matchups, they come into this game with confidence. However, the Sharks will be eager to turn the tide and improve their performance, especially on home ice at the SAP Center. Chicago’s hopes for a victory will largely depend on their ability to limit defensive mistakes and convert on the power play. Players like Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews will need to step up offensively and create more scoring opportunities. On the other hand, goaltending will also be a critical factor. The Blackhawks’ netminders, including Petr Mrazek, will have to make timely saves, especially given their team’s defensive struggles. For the Sharks, their offense has been similarly underwhelming, ranking 31st in goals per game with just 2.6. They will need to find a way to break through Chicago’s defense, which, despite its own issues, has shown more consistency in comparison to San Jose’s. Goaltender James Reimer will also need to find his rhythm and provide stability in net, something that has been inconsistent this season. A strong performance on special teams, particularly on the penalty kill, will be key in limiting Chicago’s scoring opportunities. Ultimately, this game is an opportunity for both teams to shake off their struggles and gain some momentum. With both teams in the bottom tier of their divisions, the outcome will likely come down to which team can capitalize on the other’s defensive weaknesses. With recent trends indicating underwhelming special teams and defensive lapses for both teams, expect a fast-paced game where execution on both sides of the ice will be crucial for success. The Blackhawks, with their recent dominance against the Sharks, will be looking to add to their streak, while San Jose will aim to find a way to get back to winning form.