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About This Event
In the upcoming AHL game, scheduled for January 18 at 5:00PM ET:
If Chicago Wolves win, the market will resolve to "Chicago Wolves".
If Rockford IceHogs win, the market will resolve to "Rockford IceHogs".
If the game is postponed, this market will remain open until the game has been completed.
If the game is canceled entirely, with no make-up game, this market will resolve 50-50.
The result will be determined based on the final score including any overtime periods and shootouts. In the event of
AI-generated analysis based on market data. Not financial advice.
This prediction market focuses on the outcome of an American Hockey League (AHL) regular season game between the Chicago Wolves and the Rockford IceHogs, scheduled for January 18. The market will resolve based on the official game result, including any overtime or shootout periods. The Chicago Wolves are the AHL affiliate of the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes, while the Rockford IceHogs serve as the top development team for the Chicago Blackhawks. This creates a natural rivalry, often called the 'Illinois Lottery Cup' series, intensified by their geographic proximity within the state. The game is significant within the AHL's Central Division standings, where both teams are competing for playoff positioning mid-season. Recent performances show both clubs navigating the challenges of player call-ups to their NHL parents, which directly impacts roster strength and game outcomes. Interest in this market extends beyond typical sports betting, serving as a proxy for evaluating organizational depth, coaching strategies, and the development pipelines of two historic NHL franchises. The resolution conditions account for potential schedule disruptions, with specific rules for postponements and cancellations to ensure market integrity.
Historical Context
The rivalry between the Chicago Wolves and Rockford IceHogs dates to the 2007-2008 AHL season, when the IceHogs joined the league as the Blackhawks' affiliate. The Wolves, founded in 1994, have a storied history as one of the AHL's most successful franchises, winning four Calder Cup championships (1998, 2000, 2002, 2008). They operated as an independent affiliate for many years before aligning with the Carolina Hurricanes in 2020. The IceHogs, established in Rockford in 2007, have served as the exclusive AHL affiliate for the Chicago Blackhawks since their inception, creating a natural parent-club rivalry layered onto the geographic one. Historically, the Wolves have held a competitive edge in the head-to-head series, though recent seasons have seen the IceHogs close the gap, particularly during their 2018 Calder Cup Finals run. The teams compete annually for the Illinois Lottery Cup, awarded to the winner of the season series, adding a tangible trophy to their contests. This long-standing competition ensures that games are typically physical and highly contested, regardless of either team's position in the standings.
Why It Matters
Beyond the immediate game result, this matchup matters as a key indicator of organizational health for two NHL franchises. The performance of AHL affiliates directly reflects the depth and quality of a team's prospect pipeline, influencing future NHL competitiveness. For the Carolina Hurricanes and Chicago Blackhawks, games like these provide crucial evaluation data for player development, contract decisions, and potential trade deadlines. Economically, the game impacts local businesses in Rosemont, Illinois (home of the Wolves) and Rockford, Illinois, with ticket sales, merchandise, and arena concessions contributing to municipal revenues. The outcome also influences fan engagement and season ticket renewals for both AHL clubs. Furthermore, for the players involved, strong performances can lead to NHL call-ups, career advancement, and increased earning potential, making every shift a high-stakes audition.
Current Status
As of mid-January 2024, both teams are engaged in the grind of the AHL regular season. The Rockford IceHogs hold a superior record and are positioned more favorably for a playoff spot in the Central Division. The Chicago Wolves have struggled with consistency but remain within striking distance. Both rosters are subject to change due to potential NHL recalls or assignments, a constant variable in AHL competition. The specific goaltending matchup for January 18 may not be confirmed until closer to game time, depending on NHL roster moves. The teams last met earlier in the season, with the IceHogs securing a victory, adding another layer to the ongoing Illinois Lottery Cup series.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the NHL affiliates for the Chicago Wolves and Rockford IceHogs?
The Chicago Wolves are the primary AHL affiliate of the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes. The Rockford IceHogs are the primary AHL affiliate of the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks. These affiliations dictate player movement and development philosophies.
Where is the Chicago Wolves vs. Rockford IceHogs game played on January 18?
The game on January 18, 2024, is scheduled to be played at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois. This is the home arena of the Chicago Wolves. The address is 6920 Mannheim Road, Rosemont, IL 60018.
What happens if the AHL game is postponed?
If the game is postponed, the prediction market will remain open until the game has been completed and an official result is declared. The market resolves based on the outcome of the rescheduled match.
How does overtime work in AHL games?
In the AHL, if a game is tied after three periods, a five-minute, three-on-three sudden-death overtime period is played. If no goal is scored, the game proceeds to a shootout. Both overtime and shootout results count towards the final game outcome for this market.
What is the Illinois Lottery Cup?
The Illinois Lottery Cup is the trophy awarded to the winner of the regular-season series between the Chicago Wolves and Rockford IceHogs. It is a season-long competition that adds stakes to each of their head-to-head matchups.
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Updated Jan 14, 2026
Educational content is AI-generated and sourced from Wikipedia. It should not be considered financial advice.
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