...
...
Read Article
- More Betting
Stars vs. Blackhawks prediction: Why Dallas is favored to win Thursday's NHL matchup [1/1/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Jason Bevilacqua, Head of Content and Communities
Get Dallas Stars vs Chicago Blackhawks predictions for NHL Thursday.
The Chicago Blackhawks will take on the Dallas Stars in NHL action at United Center on New Year's Day, starting at 8:30 PM ET.
Based on the latest simulations, Dimers' advanced NHL model predicts the Stars as the most likely winner of the Stars vs. Blackhawks game.
This article offers a closer look at Thursday's matchup, including projected goal scorers, best bets and player prop picks.
Stars vs. Hawks prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using innovative machine learning and statistical analysis, we have simulated the outcome of Thursday's NHL matchup between the Stars and Blackhawks 10,000 times as part of our NHL predictions coverage.
Our leading predictive model currently gives the Stars a 62% chance of defeating the Blackhawks.
According to our model, the Blackhawks (+1.5) have a 61% chance of covering the puck line, while the over/under total of 5.5 goals has a 55% chance of going over.
Stars vs. Blackhawks odds
We have researched the best NHL odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Stars | Blackhawks |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | -1.5 (+145) | +1.5 (-160) |
| Moneyline | -185 | +155 |
| Total | o5.5 (-124) | u5.5 (+105) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Stars vs. Blackhawks picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best current odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Puck Line | Blackhawks +1.5 | -160 |
| Moneyline | Blackhawks | +155 |
| Total | Over 5.5 | -124 |
According to our NHL best bets, the top play to make on this game is Blackhawks +1.5 at the spread.
Stars vs. Blackhawks player props
Who will score a goal in Stars vs. Blackhawks?
According to our model, Jason Robertson is most likely to score an anytime goal in Stars vs. Blackhawks.
Our projections give Robertson a 42.2% chance of scoring a goal at United Center, while the star is a 9.1% chance of netting the first goal the game.
Anytime goal scorer predictions
Dallas Stars
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Jason Robertson | 42.2% |
| Wyatt Johnston | 35.5% |
| Mikko Rantanen | 34.0% |
| Roope Hintz | 31.9% |
| Matt Duchene | 23.0% |
Chicago Blackhawks
| Player | Anytime Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Tyler Bertuzzi | 35.6% |
| Ryan Donato | 24.6% |
| Ilya Mikheyev | 21.7% |
| Teuvo Teravainen | 19.7% |
| Jason Dickinson | 19.1% |
First goal scorer predictions
Dallas Stars
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Jason Robertson | 9.1% |
| Mikko Rantanen | 6.9% |
| Wyatt Johnston | 6.4% |
| Roope Hintz | 5.5% |
| Matt Duchene | 4.3% |
Chicago Blackhawks
| Player | First Goal Probability |
|---|---|
| Tyler Bertuzzi | 7.1% |
| Ryan Donato | 4.3% |
| Ilya Mikheyev | 4.0% |
| Teuvo Teravainen | 3.5% |
| Jason Dickinson | 3.4% |
Stars vs. Hawks game-day updates and essential details
Thursday's matchup between the Blackhawks and Stars at United Center is scheduled to begin at 8:30 PM ET.
- Who: Dallas Stars vs. Chicago Blackhawks
- Date: Thursday, January 1, 2026
- Time: 8:30 PM ET/5:30PM PT
- Venue: United Center
Conclusion
We predict the Stars, with a 62% win probability, will likely beat the Blackhawks on New Year's Day.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Stars vs. Blackhawks insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are sourced from up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Note: Clicking links to our partners may earn us a referral fee. Learn about how we review products and services.
Jason Bevilacqua, an expert in MLB, NHL, NBA, MLS, and NFL, delivers game previews, best bets, and props. Since 2020, as Head of Social and Community at Dimers, he has contributed insightful articles utilizing data-driven models and simulations.
Advertiser disclosure