Blackhawks Head Into Vancouver with Series Tied 1-1

Blackhawks Head into Vancouver With Series Tied 1-1

Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

Blackhawks tied the Chicago-Vancouver series up 1-1 Monday night at the United Center by rallying back against a charged up Canucks team to take the win; 4-2. Chicago, 2nd in the standing head into game 3 against Vancouver, 3rd in the standings after 2 fast paced, high energy duels. 

The Vancouver Canucks have started both games with the energy of 1,000 horses combined with 1,000 Spartans. The Canucks out skated the Blackhawks, out played the Blackhawks, out shot the Blackhawks, and out performed the Blackhawks when it comes to turnovers and giveaways. The Canucks could have easily won game 2 if it wasn't for the miraculous goal tending by Antti Niemi who literally was the anchor as the Blackhawks got ahold of themselves and stated playing playoff hockey.

The roller coaster post-season for the Blackhawks continues as the Hawks were caught off guard in an unmotivated and skill lacking performance in game 1. After a good ass beating the Hawks had a revelation and started to play like the Stanley Cup bound Blackhawks they were projected to be (well most of them). With some still inconsistent lines during the playoffs the Blackhawks have gaps in their performance that needs to be filled for the Hawks to take on the rest of the playoffs. One thing the Hawks know to be ready for the next 2 opponents, pending on a Hawks "W" over Vancouver, is that Niemi is our goalie and he is capable of being a Stanley Cup winner.   

A couple things the Hawks will have to fix during the remaining games of the conference semi-finals; Giveaways, Turnovers, Passing, Skating, and Positions. 

The Hawks are averaging 3x more giveaways than the Canucks during the series and Canucks have been taking great advantage over our poor judgment. The Hawks never have a problem being the faster of the 2 teams but they need to be fast and accurate, precise and aggressive, the Canucks are out for revenge after last year's meeting and they need to capitalize on every opportunity. The Hawks during the post season have struggled greatly when it comes to accurate and smart passing, to beat Vancouver's goalie Luongo they will need position themselves for more scoring chances. During mostly game 1 and the 1st period of game 2 then Hawks looked lost as Vancouver's Sedins' skated circles around the entire Blackhawks team, they need to be and stay the game controlling Hawks we saw during the regular season. Lastly, Keep aware of A)The puck but B) your position, the Canucks are great at creating real scoring opportunities and the Hawks defensemen need to be aware of who is around them, where they are, and be able to predict the Canuck's next move. 

Tonight's game will sure be action-packed and full of energy as both teams will be playing (hopefully) some real playoff hockey. So throw on your favorite Hawk's jersey, grab a Miller Lite, and join in the chorus "Let's Go Hawks!" I'm ChiN8 and I want to thank you for following Windy City Sportz. 

Hawks Shutout Preds to Take Game 2

Hawks Shutout Preds to Take Game 2

Photo courtesy of ChicagoBlackhawks.com

Chicago asked, and the Blackhawks answer, The Nashville Predators were no match for a revamped Chicago Blackhawks team Sunday at the United Center in game 2 of the playoffs. Lead by a strong defensive core and an ironman of a goalie, Antti Niemi, the Hawks tied up the series at 1 heading into Nashville tonight for game 3. After being embarrassed by the Preds in game 1 on home ice the Hawks needed to do something to get their swagger back and after a couple line changes by Q-Stache, the Hawks took game 2 with a statement.

In game 1 of the series the Predator’s TRAP defense (Because that's what it is) proved too simple for the flashy Hawks who said heading into game 2, they needed to make more "dirty" goals to defeat the strong defense of Nashville. The game sure wasn't easy as both teams were making some of the best defensive stands I've seen in 1 game. From the Preds point of view, it was mainly Rinne, Preds goalie, who was making the biggest stand of them all grabbing 31 saves on the night.

Dave Bolland scored the Blackhawks first goal of the night, and it was kind of fate that he hit his backhander off a beautiful pass by "My Captain, My Captain." For whatever reason, during the broadcast of the game Pat was saying how Bolland isn't himself since his back surgery and we should just appreciate his attempts during the game for giving it his best. Bolland must have heard that and said, who you calling "not myself," and hit the game-winning goal; beautiful, absolutely beautiful.

We couldn't go a game into this off-season without something from our "mullet-minded" friend Patrick Kane. Kane was credited an assist in Bollands goal and on a beautiful take away and a 2 on 1 fast break, Kane split the defender and goalie by setting up a possible passing attempt; instead he pulled the trigger and fired one right past Rinne for a separation goal and some breathing room. We all know the Preds have played close games the entire year, and actually don't mind playing nail bitters (I knew they were weird) so for Kane to hit that goal was a sigh of relief.

Without touching too much so on the fact that the refs completely screwed Bolland out of a goal I will say, "the refs completely screwed bolland out of a goal." With a centering pass from behind the Preds net, a whistle was blown to blow the puck dead, and the puck was still loose with no possession except for Bolland who slid the puck right between Rinne's legs. That got Q-Stache angry, as well as the entire United Center as they started a glorious chant of, "Bullshit! Bullshit! Bullshit!"

Toews, "My Captain, My Captain," had once again another beautiful look on an empty net and pull the shot high, bouncing off the top crossbar. You could tell Toews was in shock that he missed the goal, but just as any good captain would, he got back into the game and played a strong game.

The defense really stepped it up this game, it was almost as if we weren't missing 2 key elements; Campbell and Johnsson. I can even count the numerous Predator shot attempts in which a Blackhawks would sacrifice themselves for a block. Point 'n case, Sopel, who was absolutely superb in the game, (yes I said it) turned sideways to make himself bigger on a Pred's slap shot from the point to block the shot right in the calf; he limped off the ice after the play but returned to make more great defensive plays.

Hjalmarsson is starting to become one of my favorite players on the ice, I just can't say enough about that guy. He and Sopel both were the odd man out on a 2 on 1 Predators break away where they would sprawl across the ice on a diagonal sweep towards the puck handler to block the pass and break up the puck. In the last minute of the game, as Nashville was peppering the goal, the puck took an odd bounce to the opposite side of Niemi and as Dumont poked the puck Hjalmarsson made the save, practically in the net, to keep the Preds scoreless.

I know this is getting long, but I will start to wrap this up by saying one last point; "Thank you" Marian Hossa. You have made this team better by implementing your veteran playing style and playoff experience. Every game you show me what 110% looks like, and though I know you are getting frustrated by that dumb goalie, Rinne, for making some unheard of saves, Thank you. You can truly see the difference in ability when Hossa is on the ice, he amazes me.

The Hawks head into Nashville tonight for game 3, if the Hawks can be patient and play as well as they did in Game 2, this will have a good outcome. So throw on your favorite jersey, grab a Miller Lite, and join in the chorus, "Let's Go Hawks!"

I'm ChiN8 and I want to thank you for following Windy City Sportz.

Blackhawks Outplayed in Game 1

Blackhawks Outplayed by the Nashville Predators In Game 1

Photo Property of Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images (ESPN)

The Chicago Blackhawks suffered an embarrassing defeat to the Nashville Predators Friday, at the United Center in Game 1 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Blackhawks, who are heavily favored in the series, left Chicago stunned and at a loss for words after the 4-1 short coming. Hawks led 1-0 heading into the 3rd period which unfortunately lacked drive, passion, skills, performance, and smart play that ultimately led to a Game 1 loss.

There were many players who were performing quite well throughout the game and the momentum was in favor of the Blackhawks until a slow bouncer, with the speed of a inaccurate dump, bounced past Niemi to tie the game up for the Preds. Niemi, who didn't bother with taking the puck body first, was furious with himself after allowing the 10 mph puck sneak past him. The goal was a definite gut check and that set the tone for the rest of the night. Preds knew they didn't need to be the best offense to score on the Hawk's wounded defense and inconsistent goal tender, they just needed their defense to get in the way of the Hawk's poor puck handling and passing.

I wouldn't go as far as the Hawk's "controlled" the 1st and 2nd period, there was still a lot of up and down play and Niemi was still challenged on many occasions, but there was a mark difference in the Hawk's play in comparison. Madden described the Hawks play after the Preds "lucky" goal as they "Sat back and let them take it to us," as Chicago is favored to win the Stanley Cup in many predictions, I don't think that the Hawks should allow ANY team to "take it to them" no matter what momentum is on the ice.

The Hawks were out shooting the Preds after 2, 22-13, and then after the momentum swing the Hawks were outshot 4-13 in the 3rd as the Preds scored 2 empty netters. Both teams are not known for their PP, and that was evident by Chicago's first PP which was a complete bust; both teams were 0-2 on the night during PPs. During the first 40 minutes of play the Hawks were being the more physical of the 2 teams as well with many big hits by Seabrook, Byfuglien, and even Hossa who leveled Hornqvist in the 1st. However, by the end of the game and after the Preds took complete control of the 3rd, the Hawks were out hit 31-40, another unimpressive statistic.

Many good points can be made on the Hawks first 40 minutes of play, and that unfortunately has been a re-occurring theme throughout the season. To defeat the Predators, the Hawks need to stop making things harder than they need to be, they have a stronger offense than the Preds and just need to start pulling the trigger more. Versteeg had practically a goal in hand as he was beating Rinne from post to post in front of the net and just failed to pull the trigger before the Preds were able to tie him up. The Hawks are faster and better shooters, they need to take advantage of that and realize that the open break-aways aren't going to be there against this team and just keep pushing and pushing.

The two teams meet again for Game 2 of Round 1 at the United Center. Let's hope the Hawks realize what they need to do to beat the Nashville Predators and get it done. So throw on your favorite Hawks jersey, grab a Miller Lite, and join in the chorus, "Let's Go Hawks!"

I'm ChiN8 and I want to thank you for follow Windy City Sportz make sure to subscribe to our blog, RSS feeds, and WCS In-Game to stay on top of all things Chicago Sports.

Brian Campbell Back on the Ice

Defenseman Brian Campbell Skates for First Practice Since Broken Collarbone

Photo proerty of Bill Smith/NHLI/Getty Images

Brian Campbell skated during Wednesday's practice and was even taking some slap shots (nothing crazy though) trying to do as much as he can to get back on the ice during a much needed time to help his team out.

Brian Campbell who hasn't played since Alex Ovichekin muscled him into the boards on a cheap shot during the Blackhawks vs. Capitals last meeting in March was nothing but excited about the possibility of getting back onto the ice. During Wednesday's post-practice interview, Campbell said, "taking every legal pill in the book that will help me heal faster," and here in Chicago we are saying the same thing. The sooner Campbell can get on the ice, the sooner Byfuglien can move back to his normal position at forward.

Campbell said in the interview he's been watching a lot of tapes (games, practice) and trying to take anything from it so that he can help and support his team in any way. Now if that isn't a statement made by a true team player, I don't know what is. Campbell isn't fully recovered yet, but he is fighting, and that is all we ask for. Though he was taking slap shots during practice yesterday, Campbell described his practice as taking, "baby steps," for he wasn't at 100% just yet. Campbell said multiple times in his interview that he was just wanting to gain strength, he talked about running sprints, and joked about a 30 second sprint before he almost fell off the machine. After having 5 weeks of doing nothing but TRYING to sleep, I can understand someone needing to regain some strength. 

Campbell's injury originallyprojected a 7-8 week recovery time, however, we are only 5 weeks after the hit on March 14 and though Campbell is taking it easy, he is a true fighter.

Blackhawks Fall 1 Point Short of Glory

The Chicago Blackhawks Fall 1 Point Short of Western Conference Title

Photo Property of Windy City Sportz

The United Center, left empty, only holding diminished hopes and expectations after the Blackhawks lost to the Detroit Red Wings in an OT fight between the longest standing rivals in the NHL. The Chicago Blackhawks headed into their last game of the season two points behind the San Jose Sharks and held the tie-breaker in hand. The only thing the Hawks needed to do in order to clinch home ice advantage throughout the playoffs was to beat their franchise long rivals the Detroit Red Wings last night at the United Center. The Hawks who had a 5-player scratch due to multiple injuries faced a healthy and red hot Red Wings who hold the best record since the Olympic break and ultimately proved too much for the Hawks losing 2-3 in overtime.

Hawks ended the season 29-8-4 at home and 23-14-4 while away combining for a total regular season record of 52-22-8. A very respectable finish, however, to the Hawks who went into a slump after the Olympic break going 5-9 before their last win streak of 6, they had a very reachable Western Conference Title and fell short. With only a six win difference between home & away records you may think that falling short of the Western Conference title isn't a huge downfall but the Hawks GF-GA marks quite a difference when comparing between home & away games. So everyone in a Blackhawks jersey was hoping not only for the momentum boost going into the playoffs but as well as that much needed home ice advantage.

The Hawks played a very well put together game against the Red Wings last night which showed Chicago we have nothing to worry about going into the 2010 post season even as a wounded Indian. Even though the Hawks had a 5-player scratch, the only players who the Hawks will truly be without during the playoffs will be Kim Johnsson who suffered a concussion in March and Brian Campbell who suffered a broken clavicle in March after a cheap shot by Ovichekin. Blackhawks reported yesterday that Brian Campbell has resumed skating for the first time yesterday since his injury and will probably be in the line-up for round 2 of the playoffs! The addition of Campbell back into the playoffs would be a huge addition to our wounded defense and allow Byfuglien to resume his normal position at forward.

The Hawks will face the Nashville Predators in Round 1 of the 2010 playoffs. Luckily for us, the Predators aren't known for their offense but rather their strong trap defense. It won't be a very exciting Round 1 as the Preds main focus will be stopping and tying the puck up trying to allow as little shots on goal as possible. With the Blackhawks having such an explosive, fast, and strong offense I believe the Hawks will be able to crack the line of the Preds and hopefully Niemi will be able to support the wounded defense with a consistent stand in goal. If Niemi can be who everyone in Chicago is hoping he can be, the Hawks will be able to stop the Preds weak offense as they are the only team in the Western Conference with a negative goals for-goals against difference. The Hawks outshot the Red Wings last night 29 to 21 and had 5x more shots on goal in the 2nd, where the Hawks have normally struggled. If the Hawks can keep up this trend and play a full 60-minute game the Hawks will fulfill the Stanley Cup appearance expectation they had at the beginning of the season.

Game 1 of the 2010 playoffs against the Nashville Predators will be Friday, April 16 at 7:30 CST. Game 1 will be held on home ice at the United Center in front of 20,000+ fans screaming for the Hawks. I'm projecting a game 1 win, as the Hawks will fight to ease Chicago's recent doubts of our strength going into the playoffs. So throw on your favorite Blackhawk's jersey, grab a Miller Lite, and join in the chorus "Let's Go Hawks!"

I'm ChiN8 and I want to thank you for your interest in Windy City Sportz, make sure you follow along with us during the game on WCS In-Game at; http://www.twitter.com/chitownchicity.

   

Hawks Extend Win Streak to Five

Hawks Hold Off St. Louis Blues; Extend Win Streak to Five

Photo Property of Blackhawks.com

The Hawk's blitzkrieg offense out scored the Blues 6-1 in the first 30 minutes of play last night at the United Center. You would think that against the St. Louis Blues, who are just waiting for this season to be over, the Blackhawks could just call it a night and play a solid defensive game and ride the win. Unfortunately for the Blackhawks, who just took over the Western Division, the game came down to the wire with a 6-5 finish. Hawk's extended their recent win streak to 5 after the victory against the Blues and here in Chicago, we'll take any win we can get, anything that adds to the confidence of this wounded Indian is great during this time of the season. 

To keep in tune with the Hawk's blitzkrieg, let's tackle these 6 goals FAST!

A pinching Keith scores the Hawk's first goal 6 minutes into the game, the Blue's Perron struck first 2 minutes earlier, game tied;1-1. Eager scored straight out of the penalty box on a rebounded shot from Kane (7:13). Bickell, 45 footer, tossed at the net, goes in top corner for his 3rd goal of the season (7:43). Versteeg scores a short handed goal assisted by Sharp after a beautiful steal (9:25). Hawks scored 4 goals in the 1st with a total time duration of 3:08, like I said, total Blitzkrieg. In to the 2nd and as they say, Patience is a virtue, Versteeg waits for it, makes a no-look backhanded pass, Ladd with a wrister, 5-1. Jordan Hendry takes a shot from the blue line, perfectly placed, 6-1 Hawks. The Hawks have scored 4 or more goals in 35 games so far this season. The first 30 minutes of the game were a thing of beauty and the United Center was literally hopping.

Some points to be made about certain players during yesterday's game were; Brent Sopel had 3 shot blocks in the 1st period, which is a recent statistic for Hjalmarsson, however, nice to see other defense men stepping up. The Blues, who are a very physical team, probably to make up for their lack of skill got their first cheap shot in on Hossa who got checked from behind, Seabrook was quick to defend him and gets into it with multiple Blues. Don't ask me why our opposition always goes for key players in our squad but luckily Hossa had a great next shift and why shorthanded, did a good job keeping into the offensive zone. 

Hawk's were throwing the puck at the net more, much better shots, more accurate passes, good positioning on offense and defense, and did a great job crashing the net trying to get the 2nd chances coach Quenneville keeps talking about. Hawk's keep improving on great puck movement and passes both in and out of their zone. 

On the other side of things, Hawks cannot convert on the power play for the life of them. Even though no one thinks of this as a big deal, but they fell asleep on the game and allowed a sub par Blues squad climb back against the Western Conference leading Hawks. Niemi had just as many good/important saves as he did inexcusable/bad goals, and when the Blues don't even have a goalie in net the Hawk's, after multiple attempts, can't even get an empty net goal! That is 2 games in a row that the Hawk's had chances to score on an empty net and missed. 

All above facts are minor in the grand scheme of things, except, the Hawk's inability to capitalize on a Power Play! These performance lacking power plays are truly inexcusable, there are not many chances a team has the opportunity to attack with a defender down and it hurts when you can not take advantage of the man adv. The Hawks went 0 for 6 while on the PP last night and it seems like the Hawk's believe they are on a PK during a PP, the Hawk's are dumping the puck more than centering/passing with a man adv. and I just don't get it but I do know one thing, that has GOT to change!

In other stats: Hawk's were out shot 26-31 against the Blues but out of our 26 shots on goal, only 4 came from the 3rd period. The Hawk's truly stopped their assault and on any other team the cards could have been different and the Hawk's easily could have lost. Hawk's were called for 10 penalties on the night which is an astonishing statistic as of late for the Hawks vs. the Blues 9. Seabrook fought fire with fire against the Blues rough housing as he accumulated 17 minutes in penalties including a 5 min. major for taking some fist to cuffs on Winchester. 

When all things considered, I'll take the win, and I will definitely take the Hawk's ability to strike fast, early, and often as well. If we can do all of this limping on one leg, I'm not worried about the playoffs (as long as were still not limping). Kim Johnsson is still out with an upper-body injury and is still, as of 3/24, listed as "hasn't skated since 3/13" on chicagoblackhawks.com. The Hawks will travel to Colorado tomorrow night, and if the season ended tonight, this would be Round 1 for the 2010 playoff season. So throw on your favorite Hawk's jersey, grab a Miller Lite, and let's keep this win streak alive and clinch home ice!

I'm ChiN8 and I want to thank you for your interest in Windy City Sportz. Make sure to follow WCS for all your In-Game needs at www.Twitter.com/ChiTownChiCity

Blackhawks Douse Flames and Clinch Central Division Title

Blackhawks Douse Flames anded Clinch Central Division Title

Photo property of Blackhawks.com

The Blackhawks clinched the central division title after a 4-1 victory over the Calagary Flames Sunday night. The last time the Chicago Blackhawks were called "Central Division Champions" the average gas price per gallon was $1.07. Surprisingly, the "Central Division Champs" haven't been playing their best hockey as of late, but teamed up to doused the Flames 3-game win streak with a 3-game win streak of their own Sunday at the United Center. 

Niemi got his 5th consecutive start against the Flames yesterday, and coach Quenneville said in the post game interview "He's (Niemi) likely to be going again on Tuesday." Though coach Quenneville has not and probably will not any time soon say who the definitive starter for Chicago will be in the playoffs, everyone can basically assume it will be Antti Niemi. Niemi iced the Flames Sunday making 25 saves with almost half of them as a true scoring "chance" for Calgary.

The Calgary Flames were on a 3-game win streak as they fight for the last seed in the playoffs and weren't ready to go down easy. Within 15 seconds of the 1st period Niemi had other plans for the Flames as he stoned a 1 on 1 breakaway opportunity for the Flames. Niemi who has only allowed 2 goals in the last 2 games wasn't the only Hawk fired up for some change in momentum as many Hawk players were finally firing on all cylinders.

Quenneville described Kane as a "Weapon and a threat" as Kane snapped his miniature slump as of late with an assist in the 1st period and a quick wrister past Kiprusoff in the 2nd. It was Kane's 29th goal of the season and his 19th multi-point game. Niemi even got credit for an assist on Kane's goal as Kane brought it up from their own zone. Patrick Kane said in the post-game interview, ""I think the whole team is playing well, and it's exciting," speaking on the behalf of Chicago, it is more than exciting, it's a relief!

The Defense stepped their play up during this 3-game win streak by showing some great net minding Sunday as they hammered out some recent issues. The defense was doing a great job attacking the puck earlier around the red & blue line causing multiple Flames off-side calls, turnovers, and ill-advised passes.  One player that stood out to me during the game was Niklas Hjalmarsson. Hjalmarsson had the 3rd most total time on ice Sunday against the Flames and he made every minute count. Niklas was an absolute puck magnet in the first as he blocked multiple passes and shots by sacrificing his body as he sprawled out on the ice multiple times.

On the offensive side of the puck, we saw a definite improvement as the Hawk's shot down the Flames confidence as the Hawk's made scoring 4 goals look easy. Kopecky finally got to hear the roar of the United Center as he scored his first goal of the season while at home last night. Troy Brouwer than did what everyone was looking for the Hawk's to do more of, he scored off a 2nd opportunity and showed an improvement on net minding while on offense. Kane, then took charge as a leader for the Hawks and brought the puck out of their own zone, past the Flames offensive players, then their defense, and finally Kiprusoff and drilled a quick wrist shot. Lastly, the Hawk's showed some better passing skills as some precise passsing by Toews and Hossa led to a Byfuglien goal late in the 3rd.

It is a great feeling to start to win games again and take home the Central Division title for some pure motivation before the beginning of the playoffs and I hope it keeps getting better. While looking towards the next 4 games during the regular season Kane expressed his excitement for "The Chance to win the conference and gain home ice advantage." I share the same excitement because let's face it the Hawk's play twice as good with Chicago cheering them on at the United Center. I would too if I had 20,000+ fans screaming "Let's go Hawks!" The Hawk's travel to Dallas tomorrow to face the Stars who will watch the playoffs from home this year. The Hawk's who are only 2 points behind the San Jose Sharks who have been struggling as of late as well have a real good opportunity to take home those 2 points tomorrow. So put on your favorite Blackhawk's jersey, grab a Miller Lite, and join in the chorus; "Let's Go Hawks!"

I'm ChiN8 and I want to thank you for your interest in Windy City Sportz, make sure to log-in to your Google account and follow our blog.

Hawks Stun Devils' in a Defining Game for Antti Niemi

Blackhawks Stun Devil's in a Defining Game for Antti Niemi

Photo property of Blackhawks.com

The Chicago Blackhawks take home their 2nd win a row after stunning the New Jersey Devils' with 26 seconds left in the 3rd and ultimately taking home the "W" in a shootout. No player shined more tonight than Antti Niemi who showed Chicago once again that he is the man for the starting position going into the playoffs. The Blackhawks, who have struggled as of late, finally pulled a 2-game win streak for the first time in a month. 

Chicago has only been out shot under 10 times prior to the Olympic break, but ever since, that has not been the story and is the story in tonight's game as well. Chicago was held to only 25 shots during regulation to the Devil's 30, and only out shot the Devils in the 3rd period 9-8. The Devil's held the lead, almost literally, the entire game after a early goal by Kovalchuk, 5 minutes into the 1st. 

The Blackhawks would fight the entire game down 0-1 until a slap shot by Kris Versteeg with only 26 seconds left in the 3rd tied the game up. Marty Brodeur, goalie for the Devils, played an amazing game and almost blanked the Hawks but with 1 minute and change left in the 3rd, Quenneville pulled Niemi to put 6 attackers on the ice for a final stand. With 6 attackers, the Blackhawks finally found a hole in Brodeur's armor to score a much needed goal to tie the game and bring it into OT. 

During Overtime the Blackhawks once again were out shot, 1-3, but neither team really had any good looks on goal. During the Shootout, Niemi faced; Jamie Langenbrunner, Zach Parise, and Ilya Kovalchuk, and blanked them all. On the Hawks side of the ice, it was a one and done, as Jonathan Toews represented the "C" well and scored on a beautiful, accurate, and quick shot leaving Brodeur shocked. Kane shot 2nd for the Hawks and really didn't look like the Kane we know, skating wide and shooting early as Brodeur easily glove saved his shot. Hawks didn't need to send a 3rd shooter as Niemi proved too much for the playoff bound Devils!

It wasn't as if the Blackhawks weren't getting opportunities to score, the Blackhawks had many good opportunities to score off of rebounds, turnovers, and passes, Brodeur just stunned the Hawks cold. Tonight's game was a great display of hockey, as 2 playoff teams fought some recent struggles, and finished out a full 60-minute game (in regulation). Tonight game was also the first penalty-free game in 9 years, there were some calls that could have been made, but the game played on as the penalty bench sat cold.

The biggest highlight of the game was Niemi's ability to buckle down against a playoff team and complete the job and get a "W" for his team. The Blackhawks played for the first time like a team as Chicago's best chances on goal stemmed from turnovers or passes. Almost every Blackhawks player said they are not worried by the team's recent slump and inability to play together for a full 60-minutes and tonight showed why. After Niemi blanked the Wild last game, 4-0, tonight's game only stamped his ticket to the playoffs as the Chicago Blackhawks starting goalie. If Huet were to get any more starts during the remainder of the season, I will be surprised. The team is playing well with Niemi in goal, and with all of Quenneville's talk about wanting a confident goalie, I believe Niemi is there.

Blackhawks will travel to Calgary for the last time during the regular season to play the Flames who are on the brink of catching the 8th playoff spot, and will be playing with all of their heart Sunday night. So throw on your favorite Blackhawks Jersey, grab a Miller Lite, and gear up for another possible round 1 playoff scenario game. 

I'm ChiN8 and I want to thank you for your interest in Windy City Sportz. Let's go Hawks!

Blackhawks vs. Blues Post Game

Blackhawks fall to the St. Louis Blue 2-4, fall into 3-game losing streak

Jeff Gordon, Columnist for the STL Today, opens his column stating, "Blue's fans are understandably frustrated by their team's failure to climb into the middle of the Western Conference playoff bracket this year." Well if the Blues fans are, "understandably frustrated," how would you say Blackhawks fan are currently? Every week we hear the same thing, Hawks need to have better net minding, better puck handling, better passing, better defense, more stability from the goalies, be more physical... whatever it is we need, it's being addressed but not implemented on the ice.  

The first period wasn't a disaster like the last 40 minutes were and I actually have some positives that came from period 1. As a team we were taking shots, and more than our opponent, which we have struggled with as of late, out shooting the Blue 12-10. We were getting off with better passes and shots on goal and ACTUALLY getting rebounds! I say rebounds, did anyone hear me? The Blackhawks actually had enough net minding/puck minding to get a REBOUND. That however, changed during the course of the game.

Sharp showed Chicago that there is still some skills when it comes to shooting on this deflated Blackhawks team as he sticks one top shelf off a break away to give the Blackhawks the lead. It's didn't take long before the Blue tied the game up however, and yes that seems to be a re-occuring theme in these Hawk's games as of late; hawks chalk one up but never keep it up.

Later in the first, Toews causes a turnover and had a great break-away chance on goal. Mason had a great pad save on the shot, however, Hossa got the rebound as he was skating right in front of the net to put the puck in the net behind Mason and put the Hawks up, again; 2-1. The Blues with only 5 minutes into the 2nd tied the game up with a slap shot from the right side of the ice and like I said, this is a re-occuring theme.

The 3rd period began all tied up as the Hawks couldn't respond to brewer's tying goal earlier in the period. Hawks tied the Blues in shots during the 2nd period but against the Blues who lead the NHL in goals allowed in the 2nd period, the Hawks weren't able to make anything of it.

I won't go into much detail because the 3rd period was just a heartache. With only 2 minutes left in the period Q-Stache had on the ice at one point: Toews, Kane, Hossa, Sharp, Keith, and Byfuglien after he pulled Niemi from goal... and we still couldn't score! I don't think there is any team in the entire NHL that could create a better line up than that at the time, but leave it to the Hawks, as of late, to not capitolize on the opportunity.

Niemi was struggling tonight, I don't know exactly what it was, but it seemed as though his positioning was a little off. He looked as if he THOUGHT he knew where the net was in proximity to his body but he was leaving these holes/sides of the net open the entire night. It wasn't a large hole/side, but the Blues were getting the shots in and Niemi wasn't playing the puck at times thinking he probably had the net covered. It was just a rough night over all for Niemi. 

On defense, Hjalmarrson had an unforunite turnover in the 1st which lead to an STL goal, but after that I thought he had a solid performance, he had some nice blocked shots by getting in front of the puck with his body or stick, and in one instance actually got control of the puck after his block, which was nice. The defense was getting dominated (physically) and I don't know if it was due to the lack of having big man Byfuglien in the same line-up as before due to a Q-stache line change or what. Blues just had an overall more physical game, not allowing us to clear the puck out of the D Zone or even allowing simple passing. 

The Blue's PK teams rank #1 in the NHL and they shut us out cold. Hawks had only 5 shots during our power plays ending with no points on the board. With 8 minutes left into the 3rd the Hawks had almost double the amount of chances than the Blue did (13-7) but once again couldn't make anything of it. The Hawks out shot the Blues, 34-30, which use to be normal but hasn't been the case since the Olympic break. All of these are good stats to have during a game, you would think, but in a 2-4 loss, it really doesn't help our case.

There were certain players who showed us that the skill is there, we just need to some how implement it better on the ice. Hossa's 1v2 which left both Blues defensemen on the ground was beautiful, but didn't lead to a goal. Keith's 1 on 1 performance at the end of the game against Backes was beautiful and ultimately prevented a goal, and once again, Sharp's goal in the first was a very nice shot. So what do we take away from this? The Hawks showed some glimpses of improvement in SMALL areas but when we put everything together as a team, were too minor to make a difference. We need to step this thing up TOGETHER! Hawks play ex-teammate Martin Havlat tonight against the Wild, we'll see how they do tonight.

Thanks for following Windy City Sportz, I'm ChiN8 and we'll see you next time.

Blue Jackets vs. Blackhawks Post Game

Patrick Sharp, looking defeated after the Hawks' 4-2 loss Against the Columbus Blue Jackets

Photo property of Blackhawks.com

Blackhawks lose back-to-back games against the Columbus Blue Jackets, losing 4-2 in the United Center tonight. With Niemi back in net, I think we can all agree that we had higher hopes for him, as well as the entire team, after the disastrous performance by Huet and the rest of the Hawks in the prior CBJ game earlier in the week. And the fact that Niemi had two shut outs in his previous 3 games.

However, after letting up four goals and making only 16 saves on the night, we are right back where we started with our goaltender instability.

I will say this though, I cannot sit here and put all of the blame on Niemi, much like I do when Huet is in net (A little one-sided, maybe). I will point my finger at each and every player on that active roster. For the first game in a while, Kane hasn't gotten at least one point, and was also on the ice for three of the 4 Blue Jackets goals. He couldn't even get a decent pass off throughout all three periods of play, which says a lot coming from one of their top playmakers.

Hawks almost double CBJs in shots (Hawks with 35, Blue Jackets with 20), but still cannot put the puck in the net, which seems to be a re-occuring theme. Prior to this game, the Hawks have out-shot their opponents 60 times. This game just made it 61. They even had assistance in scoring their first goal, in which the Blue Jacket's Antoine Vermette ever so gracefully put the puck in the back of the net after Dave Bolland tried tapping it in and hit the post. A big thank-you from all of us Hawks fans.

The Hawks' special teams did their job correctly by holding the Blue Jackets throughout all four penalties. The Blue Jackets went on a nail-biting 5 on 3 power play after a Toews penalty and a subsequent one by Versteeg. Q-Stache went with Bolland and then Madden as the only forwards, both of which did a tremendous job killing the two penalties. Both players had extremely active sticks and applied pressure when the Hawks were feeling it the most.

The tides appeared to turn late in the game with 3 minutes left in the third. With a nearly perfect pass up the middle of the ice from Brent Seabrook, Patrick Sharp scored the only goal that I will give the Hawks credit for, which was shorthanded none-the-less, making it his 23rd goal of the season. It appeared the Hawks had the momentum going for them after that goal. After pulling Niemi to get the 6th attacker, the intensity level reached the ultimate high for the first time all night. But after a missed shot attempt by Byfuglien, the Blue Jackets led a 2 on 1 into their offensive zone, and scored an empty netter, making it 4-2 with eight seconds left in the game.

It seems like the Hawks do not have a lot to say about their poor play post-Olympic break (the team is 5-6-2 since then), not even from team leaders Toews and Kane. Versteeg tried to offer his input saying that the team as a whole is "giving the game everything they have to give." I'm not sure which game he was watching, as the team looked flat and deflated. There was no fire, no spark to ignite the lifeless team. Maybe Steve Konroyd is right, maybe the post-olympic toll is more mental than it is physical. But with eight games left before the playoffs, and five of them being on the road,this team better find their rhythm before they are extinguished for good.

5 Keys to the Game:

1.) Take Quicker shots boys. Also, TAKE THE SHOT. And try to make them slightly more accurate.

2.) Hold teams. Especially while leading. Teams have been scoring late, very late in periods. Does the end of the second period ring a bell?

3.) Catch the passes. But the passes must first be catch-able.

4.) Enough with the turnovers. They are just getting out of hand.

5.) We need a dependable goalie. With this comes dependable defense.

Blackhawks vs. Blue Jackets Post Game

Patrick Sharp, looking defeated after the Hawks' 4-2 loss Against the Columbus Blue Jackets

Photo property of Blackhawks.com

Blackhawks lose back-to-back games against the Columbus Blue Jackets, losing 4-2 in the United Center tonight. With Niemi back in net, I think we can all agree that we had higher hopes for him, as well as the entire team, after the disastrous performance by Huet and the rest of the Hawks in the prior CBJ game earlier in the week. And the fact that Niemi had two shut outs in his previous 3 games.

However, after letting up four goals and making only 16 saves on the night, we are right back where we started with our goaltender instability.

I will say this though, I cannot sit here and put all of the blame on Niemi, much like I do when Huet is in net (A little one-sided, maybe). I will point my finger at each and every player on that active roster. For the first game in a while, Kane hasn't gotten at least one point, and was also on the ice for three of the 4 Blue Jackets goals. He couldn't even get a decent pass off throughout all three periods of play, which says a lot coming from one of their top playmakers.

Hawks almost double CBJs in shots (Hawks with 35, Blue Jackets with 20), but still cannot put the puck in the net, which seems to be a re-occuring theme. Prior to this game, the Hawks have out-shot their opponents 60 times. This game just made it 61. They even had assistance in scoring their first goal, in which the Blue Jacket's Antoine Vermette ever so gracefully put the puck in the back of the net after Dave Bolland tried tapping it in and hit the post. A big thank-you from all of us Hawks fans.

The Hawks' special teams did their job correctly by holding the Blue Jackets throughout all four penalties. The Blue Jackets went on a nail-biting 5 on 3 power play after a Toews penalty and a subsequent one by Versteeg. Q-Stache went with Bolland and then Madden as the only forwards, both of which did a tremendous job killing the two penalties. Both players had extremely active sticks and applied pressure when the Hawks were feeling it the most.

The tides appeared to turn late in the game with 3 minutes left in the third. With a nearly perfect pass up the middle of the ice from Brent Seabrook, Patrick Sharp scored the only goal that I will give the Hawks credit for, which was shorthanded none-the-less, making it his 23rd goal of the season. It appeared the Hawks had the momentum going for them after that goal. After pulling Niemi to get the 6th attacker, the intensity level reached the ultimate high for the first time all night. But after a missed shot attempt by Byfuglien, the Blue Jackets led a 2 on 1 into their offensive zone, and scored an empty netter, making it 4-2 with eight seconds left in the game.

It seems like the Hawks do not have a lot to say about their poor play post-Olympic break (the team is 5-6-2 since then), not even from team leaders Toews and Kane. Versteeg tried to offer his input saying that the team as a whole is "giving the game everything they have to give." I'm not sure which game he was watching, as the team looked flat and deflated. There was no fire, no spark to ignite the lifeless team. Maybe Steve Konroyd is right, maybe the post-olympic toll is more mental than it is physical. But with eight games left before the playoffs, and five of them being on the road,this team better find their rhythm before they are extinguished for good.

5 Keys to the Game:

1.) Take Quicker shots boys. Also, TAKE THE SHOT. And try to make them slightly more accurate.

2.) Hold teams. Especially while leading. Teams have been scoring late, very late in periods. Does the end of the second period ring a bell?

3.) Catch the passes. But the passes must first be catch-able.

4.) Enough with the turnovers. They are just getting out of hand.

5.) We need a dependable goalie. With this comes dependable defense.

Blackhawks vs. Blue Jackets Post Game

Blackhawks suffer worst lost of the season at the hands of Cristobal Huet

Photo courtesy of AP Photo/Terry Gilliam

 

Yes you read that headline correct, the Blackhawks would have been better off with Rockford Ice Hog's goalie, Corey Crawford, in net tonight after Huet allowed 7 goals on 27 shots. This was by far one of the worst defensive performances I've seen by the Chicago Blackhawks this year, Huet isn't the only one to blame even though he actually found a way to GIVE the Blue Jackets 2 goals all by himself. 

Huet was pulled in the second after allowing 5 goals, he was replaced by Annti Niemi who faced only 5 shots but allowed a bouncer which ricochet off skates and sticks like a pinball before slipping past him. Q-Stache, for whatever reason, put Huet back in goal in the 3rd period to face the music. Quenneville more than likely put Huet back in goal to try and rise his confidience level hoping for at least 1 good period out of the already 40 minute disaster. The game, however, got even more out of hand and to add insult to injury, Huet, while trying to "clear" the puck from behind the net, passed it directly to a Blue Jacket who had an easy pass towards the front of the net for a goal, TWICE!

Huet, couldn't track a puck to save his life, moved slower than molasses, skated post to post as if he were on sandpaper, and basically told Q-Stache through his performance tonight he didn't want to be goalie for the Blackhawks this post-season. I said it in the preview for the game and I'll say it again, I am a proud member of the facebook group; "For the love of God! Why isn't Antti Niemi the Blackhawk's starting goalie?" <--- and that is my final statement about the goalie situation.

Offense even looked like something out of the AHL today as well. While in the offensive zone, I swear, Hossa couldn't get a good pass along the blue line to anyone at any time. We weren't thinking, and I can't blame them, they didn't try to set up anything they just thought about being down 5,6, or 7 and only wanting to shoot no matter how bad of a shot it was. We MIGHT have got 3 shots on goal before Blue Jackets cleared it out and were on our end in no time. It was just a poorly played game by all parties, and I thought our loss to the Coyotoes was hopefully our rock bottom, boy was I wrong.

There is nothing much to take from this game except EVERYTHING needs work, improvement, and serious evaluation. We have 9 games left and can't be doing this roller coaster stuff at this time, keep Niemi in goal for the rest of the season, let him be the anchor and start building out. It is crunch time, and I really hope Q-stache will re-evaluate his statement to choose a starting goalie for the playoffs around the "5 games left" point.

It did however, bring a smile to my face to see Duncan Keith take the reigns at the end of our 3rd period PP and push the puck through the zone, grab his own rebound, and almost score. 

 

So did anything good come out of this? Well, the Blackhawks clinched a playoff berth with the Calagary Flames losing today, we actually scored during a power play, and....... that's about it. 

 

I'm sorry about all the negativity, I normally sleep on my blog for a night before posting to make sure I am thinking with a clear head that is not clouded with emotions, but this game hurts to much already and I know it's just going to be an even worse hangover tomorrow.

Blackhawks vs. Blue Jackets Preview

The Low Down in The Chi Town: Blackhawks vs. Blue Jackets
Photo courtesy of ChicagoNow.com

Mathematically it seems the Blue Jackets are out of the 2010 playoff picture but the Blackhawks should not take this game for granite. Chicago coming off of a huge and much needed win against the blazing hot Phoenix Coyotes will be playing the deflated Columbus Blue Jackets. The Jackets look for a win to snap a 2 game losing streak, and on the other side of the puck, the Hawks look for their first 2-game win streak since the beginning of March.

Hossa said in a post-practice interview today, "a few games before the playoffs we need to get better and better," when comparing the two games the Blackhawks just finished against the Coyotes, they did get better but is it enough? The Blackhawks probably will not be sweating the Blue Jackets as much as they did the Coyotes last game, which many Blackhawks called, "One of the biggest games of the year," but with only 10 games left in the season our defense needs as much competition to gear up for the playoffs as possible.

This will be the 5th time these 2 franchises have met this year and the Blackhawks have taken a "W" home in every game so far. Over the last 4 meetings the Blackhawks have chalked up 18 goals vs. the Blue Jackets 12 this year, 2 games ended in a shootout, while the other 2 the Blackhawks won in regulation.

Huet will get the start in goal for the first time since Saturday, March 13 against the Philidelphia Flyers. Chicago fans remember that heart-breaking loss all to well as Chris Pronger scored the game winning goal with only 3 seconds left in regulation; Huet went 31/34 in saves in the 2-3 loss.

Even though these 2 teams are 29 points apart from each other, the Blackhawks and Blue Jackets Power Play percentage is about the same. Even though the Blue Jackets are in a 29 point deficeit to the Blackhawks their 81.8% Penalty Kill percentage is quiet good and with the Blackhawks only scoring rought 1:6 PPs could put up quite a challenge for the Hawks.

Quenneville said in today's post-practice interview, "Huet hasn't played since phili game and did well and we want to get him going as well." Is Q-Stache looking to give Niemi a rest after Niemi posted 2 shutouts in his last 3? Doesn't really make sense if you ask me, but I am not really the best person to answer that question, for last month, I joined the Facebook group "For the love of God! Why isn't Antti Niemi the Blackhawk's starting goalie?"

When asked about a starting goalie for the playoffs, Quenneville said he might make that decision with about 5 games left in the season but did say, ""We might go with one guy" ... "we want both guys confidient in net." With our defense as questionable as it is currently, I can't argue with Q-stache even though I do believe Niemi made a huge statement last game against the Coyotes.

It was GREAT to see Q-Stache smile when discussing the defense's last performance against the Coyotes, however, Quenneville did say "We need do a better job clearing pucks, Knocking people down" he also said, "we could manage the puck a little better, " and ""awareness was in place, execution could be better." Seabrook played great and really got everyone pumping as Byfuglien follow closely and Hjalmarsson had great net-minding.

Kim Johnsson hasn't skated since 3/13 due to an upper body injury and is still day-to-day but more than likely will not play against the Blue Jackets tomorrow. Every game is important to the Blackhawks now, however, this game is not worth risking further injuries to Kim Johnsson.

Passing, puck control, and fewer turnovers will always be concerns of the Blackhawks and tomorrow will hopefully be a great opporunity to work on all of our concerns. The Offense always does a great job and they need to keep that going. The only thing I would like to see is our Power Play to improve and actually get some good PP goals in. Defense, as Q said, needs to keep being phyiscal, keep pressing the puck, force turnovers, get and keep the puck out of the D zone and fast. If we hit rock bottom Saturday against the Coyotes, this incline is coming at the right time.

If the Blackhawks keep improving upon their defense and overcome their multiple challenges this game will result in a win, which is what everyone wants in life! So put on your Blackhawks jersey, grab a Miller Lite and gear up for a much needed and quite possible 2-game win streak as THE Chicago Blackhawks head to Columbus to face the Blue Jackets!

Coyotes vs. Blackhawks Post Game

Blackhawks Make a Statement in 2-0 Shutout Win

Photo property of ChicagoBlackhawks.com

Niemi stamped his signature on a 28-shot shutout against the Phoenix Coyotes last night at the United Center. The Chicago Blackhawks addressed many weak points that have been evident over the last couple weeks and played a great game in, what Niemi called, "One of the biggest games of the year."

I don't know if Q-Stache read my blog or not but it was almost as if I read into the future. The Chicago Blackhawks had so many positive notes about yesterday's game, as a fan, it was a great game to watch. I'm not saying that this game means that from now on we will be the same hottest Chicago Blackhawks that we were mid-season but it is a great feeling to know that when the Blackhawks buckle down and set their mind on a "W," they can get it.

First issue, passing, and let me tell you it improved greatly! Sure, there were still minor turnovers and Niemi had to make some tough saves because of it but we're not perfect... not yet. In Kane's goal early in the 2nd, the passes by Brouwer and Keith out of the zone were fast and tight, exactly what they needed to be. Even though our forwards were much faster than the Coyote's defensemen, Kane did exactly what I said we needed to do, he didn't look for a pass, HE PULLED THE TRIGGER, and it worked! Bryzgalov seemed to be caught off guard as Kane put the puck high in the 4 hole, which would be the game winning goal!

Our defense, which has been struggling greatly as of late, had many highlights on the night. Brent Seabrook played for the first time since Wisniewski's hit, and Seabrook was amazing! Seabrook started strong with a huge check against Fiddler and that set the tone for the rest of the night as Byfuglien had many great hits in the zone as well.

While watching the game you could just see the Hawk's passion and drive for the win. Keith was advancing the Coyotes forwards, forcing bad passes while they were crossing the blue line. Once the Coyotes were in the zone the Blackhawks would do anything to get the puck out of the zone including multiple dives by Byfuglien and Brouwer. Everyone on defense had great overall net-minding as they blocked many shots and Hjalmarsson showed everyone how to get in front of the puck late in the 3rd as the Blackhawks made a huge defensive statement.

Niemi was purely brilliant, I don't know if he was just so fired up still over last game but he played great. Niemi was diving, sliding post-to-post, getting great stick and glove saves and was just the anchor the Blackhawks needed. This performance definitely made a statement that Niemi is ready to be our goalie this playoff season.

The PK was amazing as Captain Toews shined while tieing the puck up in the Coyotes zone and ultimately drawing a penalty to basically kill a Coyote Power Play more than a minute early. The Blackhawks really did play 60-minutes tonight and played right on through the 2nd out shooting the Coyotes 16-8.

Overall, it was a great game for the Chicago Blackhawks, a great game to watch (for a Blackhawks fan), and exactly what Chicago needed. I don't know what this means for us from here on out but if this game is to reflect our future performances, I believe we will be alright and ready for the playoffs. As Madden said after Monday's practice, John Madden said, "Some teams are in playoff mode already and we have to get there," this game helped a lot!

Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks Preview

The Low Down in the Chi Town; Coyotes vs. Blackhawks
Photo property of ChicagoBlackhawks.com

"Coyotes Expect to Win Every Game," is the title of Dave Vest's The Desert Dog Blog this week. If Brent Seabrook, who could play tomorrow against the Coyotes, has anything to say about the outcome of tomorrow's game the Coyotes will hopefully not make it to double digits in their recent win streak.

Dave Vest, author for the Phoenix Coyote's blog The Desert Dog Blog, later states in his blog that the Coyotes, "regardless of the opponent, the site, the travel schedule and/or the start time," really do "EXPECT" to win every game. He says this mindset comes from the coaching staff, and "The results speak for themselves."

I will say one thing about that, a win-streak is a beautiful thing. When the Blackhawks were the hottest team in the NHL this season there wasn't even an All-Star team that could have mentally been more prepared to win than the Blackhawks. The Blackhawks have to remember what it felt like to play with that mind set and counter it.

In a Post-Practice interview on Blackhawks TV, John Madden commented on a lot of the practice was focusing on the D Zone. Q-Stache being a former Defenseman himself, I'm sure had a big part in Monday's practice. Seabrook, Versteeg, Quenneville, and madden all had a segment on the Blackhawks TV where they touched on Defense starting with the goalie. Niemi will have another opportunity to redeem the team's 3rd quarter break down tomorrow against the Coyotes and I am glad Q gave him this chance.

Quenneville stated in Monday's Post-Practice interview that Brent Seabrook is "Likely" to play tomorrow against the Coyotes if he looks as good as he did today. Seabrook, who was concussed after a deliberate head shot from Wisniewski against the Ducks, I'm sure is eager to get back into the action especially after watching his team throw a win away Saturday against the Phoenix Coyotes. If Seabrook does play tomorrow it will be a great addition to the defense as Johnsson is still out with an upper body injury.

After listening to all the reports and interviews it seems that everyone is very optomistic about tomorrow's game and I am right there with them. We played great during the first 40 minutes Saturday vs. the Coyotes, Versteeg called the 3rd period break down a "mental lapse," and with everyone's mind set on starting to win again, I'm feeling good. This slump has dragged on long enough, we have a great team that can overcome anything and I believe we have what it takes to bring home a "W" tomorrow.

In Monday's Post-Practice interview John Madden said, "Some teams are in playoff mode already and we have to get there." It's not that we can't score, we have proven that we can against any team, and with some needed emphasis during today's practice on defense, I think the time is now. So put on your Blackhawks jersey, grab a Miller Lite and gear up for what may be a preview of an exciting playoff game; Phoenix Coyotes vs. THE Chicago Blackhawks!

Blackhawks vs. Coyotes Post game

Coyotes Gut-Check the Blackhawks in a 5-4 Loss That Ended in a Shootout.
Photo courtesy of ChicagoBlackhawks.com

"Disappointed, Embarrassed, Deflated" I just can't find the word to describe what I've seen from the Hawks these past 2 weeks. I'm sure everyone has kept up with the team's lack of ability to finish a game with a "W" so I won't go into detail.

After going up 2-0 against the Coyotes whose confidence has been at it's highest while on their longest win streak since '99, I knew this would be a test for our painfully absent defense. In this case, I hate when I'm right because only 1:11 into the 3rd the Coyotes tied the game up. After that, well, I can basically Copy + Paste what I just said because that is EXACTLY what happened; Up 4-2, then lost the lead and ultimately the game.

For the first time in a while we actually out played our opponent in the 2nd period; out shooting the Coyotes 16-7, however, in the 3rd period there was just a lapse in teamwork all together. I can't imagine how former defenseman Q-Stache feels while watching his team crumble to pieces. Niemi was great in the 1st and 2nd period, but once again our defense allowed passes, holes, and shots that could have been avoided. Our offense is not free of fault, as we had MANY MANY MANY turnovers by poor passing and puck handling around the blue line.

There were 3 Hawks in front of the net on Wolski's goal all able to poke the puck away, however, instead set up an easy grab for Wolski. I am, however, interested in what Wolski said to Kopecky after the goal though....

All in all, we lost this game as a team. Offense is making terrible passes and mis-handling the puck way to much. The Offense is not pulling he trigger fast enough and once again we have a game where we out shot our opponents only to lose. We have some of the most talented shooters in the NHL, so tell me why aren't they pulling the trigger instead of passing into 2-3 opponent's sticks?

I am not about throwing people under the bus, especially in a TEAM sport but ever since these injuries occured, Brent Sopel has become just an eye sore. He is by far the slowest person on the ice and gets out skated every game. Our zone defense is hurting and to have someone that can't keep up with the puck or play hurts a lot. Byfuglien is 3 inches taller and weighs like 40 lbs. more and out plays Sopel on Defense... Come on!

Ladd stated in a post-game interview with Jesse Rogers for ESPN 1000; “It’s like a broken record,” Ladd continued. “It’s the same thing every night. We mix in one good game and everyone starts thinking we’re a perfect team again but [it’s the] same old stuff pretty much.” Let's just hope they fix this "old stuff," and QUICK!