6* Sunday NHL CHI/PHX

Chicago vs. Phoenix, 01/20/2013 22:00 EDT, Score: 6 - 4

Money Line: +107 Phoenix

Sportsbook: BETONLINE

Result: Loss

Coyotes +107

The Phoenix Coyotes host the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday. Phoenix won three of four meetings between these teams in the regular season a year ago, then eliminated Chicago from the playoffs in six games.

Phoenix was able to tie up their opener with Dallas in the third period, but the Stars would net the winner late in regulation. Phoenix did control the game pretty well, outshooting Dallas 40-26.

The Coyotes come home looking to win their first game of the season. The team hasn’t lost their first two games of the season since 2005. Conversely, Chicago hasn’t won its first two games of the season since 1996.

The Blackhawks had to sit through an extended banner ceremony in Los Angeles in honor of the Kings having won the Stanley Cup, then took out their frustrations on the home side in a 5-2 win. The Blackhawks are victims of the league’s condensed schedule, as they’ll have to play back-to-back road contests on consecutive nights to begin the season.

Phoenix goaltender Mike Smith posted a 1.30 GAA against the Blackhawks in the regular season a year ago, and followed that up with a 1.81 GAA against them in the playoffs.

The Blackhawks are 2-7 in their last nine meetings with the Coyotes. Take Phoenix.

6* Play on Phoenix Coyotes +107