The Hawks were able to squeeze out a point against the Vancouver Canucks on Monday. It was a game that they weren’t able to get their offence in gear; full marks to the Canucks for playing them well.
Not getting both points in that game just made this week a lot more difficult if your scoreboard watching with hopes of the Hawks making the playoffs.
To recap, here’s what’s in store:
Thursday – Home vs. Philadelphia Flyers
Saturday - @ Colorado Avalanche
Sunday – Home vs. Colorado Avalanche
Philly is currently 6 points out of a wild card spot and are essentially the Eastern Conference versions of the Blackhawks. Both teams are refusing to give up and until official eliminated are emptying the tanks on these last handful of games.
Then looking ahead to those Colorado games… wow. Those are some make or break games for both teams. There is a lot of the line and I’m excited about it.
I’m curious to see what Colliton does moving forward with goaltending decisions, lineup changes and allocating ice time.
I would expect to see Toews and Kane back together next game. Saad was playing well on the 3rd line for a stretch there, so I think you still have a formidable line with Sadd-Anisimov-Kahun; the question is, who plays with 19 & 88? Dylan Sikura appears to be the likely candidate right now, but he doesn’t necessarily fit on that line very well. The Hawks could really use a Caggiula-sized injection right now.
Speaking of Drake Caggiula, I’m not entirely sure what his status is. All I know is when there aren’t any updates being offered and he’s not around the team, it’s not a good sign. I still can’t believe Rackell was not punished for that hit. Let’s hope Caggiula is back and healthy sooner than later.
In terms of defence, I think you see Keith and Gustafsson being used a ton by Colliton. They will be the pair doing most of the heavy lifting and that’s a good and bad thing.
In net, I suspect Cam Ward gets the Sunday game, but I wouldn’t be shocked if Colliton rides Corey Crawford for all games. Crawford is a warrior and will want to be in those games – that is, if he’s feeling well enough to play that much. I’m guessing he won’t say anything even if he’s getting worn down.
That’s all I have for now. Looking forward to tomorrow’s game.
See ya out there!
JL
Chicago Blackhawks Blogger • 
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