Chicago at Vancouver

The Vancouver Canucks had a great year, and they will be the first team to get a shot at the defending Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks. While Chicago did not have the type of season they did a year ago, there is an old expression... Never underestimate the heart of a champion. I think that the oddsmakers have done just that here. The Blackhawks have been at their best on the road vs. top teams. They are 21-10 in their last 31 when facing a team that has a better than .600 winning percentage at home. Since last season, the Blackhawks are 12-5 on the road vs. teams that outscore their opponents by 0.5+ goals per game. Chicago is no stranger to winning in Vancouver as they have won four of the last five played here. I like Chicago's chances of taking the opener and I really like them at 1.5 to 1 odds.