The rivalry continues tonight as the Canucks take on the Blackhawks in Chicago, and this should be as exciting as the upcoming champions league betting finals. While it is true that a series can not be judged by the first game, the Canucks looked dominant in the opener. Here are a few things to consider for the sports betting enthusiasts.

Canucks

There is no doubt that Vancouver would love to go back home with a commanding two game lead. To do that, they will have to figure out how to hold off the Blakchawks in the early going, just like they did in game one.

The key to weathering the expected early storm will once again be Roberto Luongo. After having mixed first round performances, Luongo brought his A game for the opener of this series. That will once again be key for the Canucks. There is no doubt that Chicago will try to disrupt Luongo even more in game two. Dustin Byfuglien will certainly be parked in front of the net trying to frustrate the goalie.

The Canucks did an excellent job distributing contribution in game one, taking some of the pressure off the top lines. To be successful in game two, they should simply try to do more of the same.

Blackhawks

It is not surprising that NHL betting odds are favoring Chicago to take game two. After the fallout of the first game, this team will play once again like they have something to prove.

To even the series, Antti Niemi will need to play better. In game one he allowed five goals on 25 shots. While not all goals can be blamed on him, he will need to improve quickly if Chicago is going to go through into the next round. Look for Niemi to play a lot better in game two.

Chicago needs to come out with more intensity overall and increase the hitting game. Disrupting Luongo's focus definitely needs to be high on their list. They have all the right pieces, now it is all about delivering the execution.

Prediction

This should be a much tighter and grittier game. Scoring will be close, but Chicago will most likely figure out a way to tie the series before going to Vancouver.