Chicago Blackbawks vs Utah Mammoth Pick and Prediction for Wednesday January 7 2025
The Ottawa Senators head to the Delta Center to face the Utah Mammoth on Wednesday, January 7, 2026. This 9:30 PM EST matchup, airing on ESPN+, features two teams looking to climb their respective division standings. Utah returns home following a 3-2 overtime win against the Rangers, while Ottawa aims to recover from a 5-3 loss to Detroit. For expert analysis and daily wagering insights on the full slate of NHL action, be sure to check out the latest free NHL picks over at Winners and Whiners.
Sign Up for Winners and Whiners News Alerts, Get Free Picks and Discounts
Subscribe Now
Ottawa Senators Seeking Road Consistency
The Senators enter with a 20-16-5 record and have been competitive on the road this season at 10-8-2. Offensively, Ottawa is one of the more productive teams in the league, averaging 3.24 goals per game. Their power play is a significant weapon, operating at a 24.6% success rate. However, they have struggled to keep the puck out of their own net, surrendering 3.27 goals per game.
The Senators are currently navigating a thin roster due to key absences. Starting goaltender Linus Ullmark is OUT as he remains on a personal leave of absence. In his place, Leevi Merilainen is expected to start; he carries a 3.49 GAA and an .869 save percentage this season. Additionally, veteran center Lars Eller remains on Injured Reserve with a foot injury and is not expected to return for tonight's contest.
Utah Mammoth Protecting Home Ice
The Utah Mammoth sit at 20-20-3 and have been reliable at the Delta Center with a 9-7-1 home record. Utah plays a more conservative style than Ottawa, averaging 3.02 goals per game while allowing only 2.88. Their success is largely built on a strong penalty kill, which currently sits at 80.8%, and the steady play of Karel Vejmelka, who has 18 wins and a 2.70 GAA this season.
Utah’s lineup is also missing significant pieces. Center Logan Cooley remains on Injured Reserve with a lower-body injury, and defenseman Terrell Goldsmith is also on Injured Reserve and unavailable for tonight. These absences have forced the Mammoth to rely more heavily on their top-six forwards for offensive production during their recent stretch.
Utah Mammoth vs. Ottawa Senators Prediction
This game features a contrast in styles: Ottawa’s high-powered, high-event offense against Utah’s disciplined defensive structure. While Ottawa has the superior power play, their defensive numbers and current goaltending situation suggest Utah may have the advantage in a tight, low-scoring environment.
Utah Mammoth vs. Ottawa Senators ATS Pick
- Pick: Ottawa Senators +1.5 (-245)
Despite the injury to Ullmark, the Senators have enough offensive firepower to keep this game close. Utah's offense (3.02 GF/G) rarely blows teams out, and Ottawa’s record as a road underdog has been respectable this season. Expect a competitive game that stays within a one-goal margin.
Utah Mammoth vs. Ottawa Senators Total Pick
- Pick: Under 6.5 (-135)
Utah's defensive average of 2.88 goals allowed per game suggests they will prioritize slowing down Ottawa’s transition game. Both teams are missing key playmakers (Eller for OTT, Cooley for UTA), which often leads to a more defensive, grinding style of play.
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
Bet $5 & Get $200
Tony Karpinski
Joe Duffy
The Insiders Room
Mark Ruelle
Jackie Mack