Calgary at Chicago

The Chicago Blackhawks have not been to the playoffs since the 2001-02 season and you have to wonder how that will translate in their opener here vs. Calgary. That lack of playoff experience may make the opening night jitters seem a bit bigger than they really are. The Flames have been here in three of the last four years, so other than the butterflies at the onset, this team should have a decided factor in experience. The Flames have been at their best this season, especially of late when they are well rested, as they have won seven straight off of three day’s or more rest. This has been an underdog series, as the dog has claimed the money in six of the last eight meetings, and it has also been a series in which the road team has won eight of the last ten. I will go with Calgary in game one here.