NHL: Vegas Golden Knights vs Chicago Blackhawks odds, picks, and predictions

The Vegas Golden Knights (42-31-2) visit United Center on Wednesday to face the Chicago Blackhawks (27-42-11). The puck will be dropped at 8:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+). The Golden Knights are still in contention for the Western Conference's last playoff place, but they're on life support after a 3-2 overtime setback in Dallas. With two games remaining, they're four points behind the Stars, and Dallas just needs one point to eliminate VGK.

The Blackhawks have been removed from playoff contention for a long time. Chicago won over Philadelphia on Monday, its first regulation win since March 23 in Anaheim. The home crowd hasn't witnessed a regulation win since March 8, which also happened to be against the Ducks.

Vegas Golden Knights vs Chicago Blackhawks projected goalies

Kevin Lankinen (9-5-1, 2.64 GAA,.917 SV%, 1 SO) vs. Logan Thompson (9-5-1, 2.64 GAA,.917 SV%, 1 SO) (7-15-6, 3.53 GAA, .890 SV percent )

Thompson appeared unsettled following a collision in the third period on Tuesday, but he stayed in to finish the game in Dallas. He'll have to start with the rapid turnaround because he's the best choice with Robin Lehner and Laurent Brossoit both done. Jiri Patera is the backup, and if VGK is eliminated, he will most likely start the final. Lankinen was in the net for the win over Philadelphia on Monday, stopping 33 of the 34 shots he faced to earn his second win in four starts. In his single appearance against VGK this season, he conceded five goals on 36 shots in a wild 5-4 OT loss in Vegas on March 26.

Vegas Golden Knights vs Chicago Blackhawks picks and predictions

Prediction: Blackhawks 4, Golden Knights 3