In past years. The Cup years...and contending years.... (2009-2016). I would be a mess. Find it so stressful and nervous watching Hawk playoff hockey.

And two years from now, I expect to be the same. I really love the direction this team is taking.

But, for today....and a Game 5 if needed....I am truly peaceful for this series. Maybe it is the fact we have no business even being at the dance. Maybe it is because the "prize" of first overall is there. Maybe it's just liking the Dach, Kubalik, Bouqvist, etc growth right before my eyes.....

Whatever the case....I can watch the game with my normay cheering interest, but not near the stress as usual.

Go Hawks!!! I am not built to cheer for a "tank"....so win this, and on to the Top 16!!!!
- hawk35

Well said.

I'm of the same viewpoint. I've found it odd that over the last three games my heart hasn't raced like it usually does in April/May/June, so part of me felt that I was attributing that to circumstances going on in the world right now that really puts priorities into perspective, but then I realized that in reality, it's the fact that these extra games are just gravy because expectations are non-existent right now for these baby Hawks.

Whatever happens, happens. But personally speaking, even if the Hawks get blitzed these next two games, I'm at ease seeing the immense growth that Dach has had, and knowing that valuable future key players like Kubalik, Boqvist, and DeBrincat are still coming into their own.

Not sure what expectations I have for next season yet, but I do know that I am in no hurry to see this team win immediately because I know that great things are coming, and I am able to see the light at the end of this tunnel. For now, I am just enjoying these "playoff" games like a casual fan would, focusing on the growth of the young core that will be leading the inevitable push eventually.

Since Montreal is the only other team with a lower season total winning %, a Montreal pay-in loss takes them to the lotto and a hawk win make them the team going to the sweet 16 dance with the lowest winning %, so they only elect after the 15 lotto teams at 16, unless Montreal wins and that bumps the 'hawks to 17. No chance for a 18 19 0r 20.

...and unfortunately this draft addict can't root against them either.

|I love the class and at 16 there is still pretty nice pickings, but I just can't remember a top ten that fits so well with their needs and the chance someone drops into their laps.

I think there is a top ten team that might take Holloway, and you have to think New jersey has got eyes on Askarov.
You will notice on my 7 round draft board on Draftsite, I dropped Holloway to slot 16, I guess you now know why.
I do think that tier ends at slot 17, but what do I know?

My neighbor is a huge Pens fan and he is also a respectful hockey fan and we watch both our teams together many a time in his new man cave, a delightful exclusion of what my wife calls noise when I am, home. I take my goal light, computer there and he actually cued up Chelsea's dagger for me on his sound system for game one.

In his frustration with the tabs wins he texted me the back of a Penquin's sweater with a #11 Alexis Lafrenière on it.

You think that is not happening in Winnipeg? (and basically their window as a genuine contender looks like it was ended by the Cap, before it actually started?

Blackhawk Jim was rooting for Blue jackets to win the lotto, and I think I would like that too.

I would like to see a fan poll where fans must vote for a team they dont root for and see what they think.
- wiz1901

Is that how it works, Wiz?

Even if Hawks were to win the Stanley Cup they would still pick 16th? (Or 17th if MTL moves on?)

Originally I would have preferred a higher draft pick.

Now after watching so much progression from guys like Dach, I say screw it... give me a win and we'll figure out the rest later bevause this experience for this team might trump a higher pick any way.
- Tyler Cameron

Ok thanks for clarifying your point.

I’ve been under the weather the last eight months with little energy to do more than read the posts here. Finally beginning to come around. When COVID hit in March I worked from home and my company offered me a package to retire, I have been eligible to retire for three years and had been padding my pension. So the buyout came at an opportune time. Still awful way to begin my retirement and I wasted some gorgeous June and July weather. The family is good, all the kids are secure in their jobs which is lucky in this environment. How are you doing? Started teaching yet? Two of my daughters who teach are planning how they’ll deal with the challenges they’ll face in September.
- paulr

I remember you talking about retirement being too good to pass up. Sorry to hear about getting sick. I'm glad you're recovering though. Good to hear about your family. Your daughters have to come up with in-person & e-learning options, or what?

No, I don't teach yet. Just Writing Center work ... a different type of teaching. I'm a year away from a completed master's degree, then I can teach at the college level. Probably as an adjunct, but anything that I want in English.

I’ve been under the weather the last eight months with little energy to do more than read the posts here. Finally beginning to come around. When COVID hit in March I worked from home and my company offered me a package to retire, I have been eligible to retire for three years and had been padding my pension. So the buyout came at an opportune time. Still awful way to begin my retirement and I wasted some gorgeous June and July weather. The family is good, all the kids are secure in their jobs which is lucky in this environment. How are you doing? Started teaching yet? Two of my daughters who teach are planning how they’ll deal with the challenges they’ll face in September.
- paulr

Hey Paul. Glad you are feeling a lil better. Good health to you going forward, settle in and watch a good Hawk victory tonight!

If Boqvist could play with more confidence

If Boqvist were stronger maybe he would not be afraid of of being checked hard and hurt; precisely i mean to suffer another concussion.. He might even pound opposing forward more, but never going to be a physical noted player

Biqvist is a great talent. We are patiently waiting for his offensive ability to blossom. He is more concerned, though, about playing well defensively. Truth be told he has been fast tracked and I think he has hit a bit of a wall in this play in round.

Remember he is still a kid and has not yet grown into a man' s body. And it could take a few years to gradually add strength and to avoid a few concussions.

Honestly I am concerned if he ever reaches the pinnacle or his zenith - it would be a real treat to see his electrifying talent on a nightly basis. Either inperson or on cable (maybe on an old Zenith) to see reach his zenith!

OK corny not a good adjective using "zenith," but you catch what I am saying

I just hope that Boqvist is not playing somewhat scared.. A former Blackhawk high draft, Jokiharju, i amng guessing had/has the same fear that Boqvist might be enduring now

I am therefore a concerned how steady Boqvist will be the remainder of the play in round due specificly to the physical play. He has been concussed already in his career.

Is that how it works, Wiz?

Even if Hawks were to win the Stanley Cup they would still pick 16th? (Or 17th if MTL moves on?)
- Tyler Cameron

I think he's saying if the Hawks win this play in they and they don't win any more rounds.

I remember you talking about retirement being too good to pass up. Sorry to hear about getting sick. I'm glad you're recovering though. Good to hear about your family. Your daughters have to come up with in-person & e-learning options, or what?

No, I don't teach yet. Just Writing Center work ... a different type of teaching. I'm a year away from a completed master's degree, then I can teach at the college level. Probably as an adjunct, but anything that I want in English.
- I Am The Breadman

Thanks, I’m feeling better but have a way to go.

The girls completed last year with elearning but one school the kids are near the poverty line and don’t have access to good quality computers. The school boards created wifi hotspots for families that need them and a community drive helped kids get older PCs and laptops. They are now planning in class procedures including plastic panels around desks, staggered arrival/departure times etc. Also there will be rules on masks, bathroom use, lunch times etc. It’s going to be a big job for everyone

Hey Paul. Glad you are feeling a lil better. Good health to you going forward, settle in and watch a good Hawk victory tonight!
- hawk35

Thanks Bud. As I say I have mixed feelings, I can’t see the hawks going deep but I want them to win any game they’re in. But man I’d love to see them get the number one overall!

If Boqvist could play with more confidence

If Boqvist were stronger maybe he would not be afraid of of being checked hard and hurt; precisely i mean to suffer another concussion.. He might even pound opposing forward more, but never going to be a physical noted player

Biqvist is a great talent. We are patiently waiting for his offensive ability to blossom. He is more concerned, though, about playing well defensively. Truth be told he has been fast tracked and I think he has hit a bit of a wall in this play in round.

Remember he is still a kid and has not yet grown into a man' s body. And it could take a few years to gradually add strength and to avoid a few concussions.

Honestly I am concerned if he ever reaches the pinnacle or his zenith - it would be a real treat to see his electrifying talent on a nightly basis. Either inperson or on cable (maybe on an old Zenith) to see reach his zenith!

OK corny not a good adjective using "zenith," but you catch what I am saying

I just hope that Boqvist is not playing somewhat scared.. A former Blackhawk high draft, Jokiharju, i amng guessing had/has the same fear that Boqvist might be enduring now

I am therefore a concerned how steady Boqvist will be the remainder of the play in round due specificly to the physical play. He has been concussed already in his career.
- jhawk59

I don't think there is any issue with Boqvist. I think he is exactly where he is expected to be - overwhelmed by the pace and competition level of NHL playoff hockey. This is not a knock on him. He wasn't really ready to come up this year, but was forced a bit.

I think he'll be fine. He has concentrated on his defense which is the right way for him to develop. Give him the time to develop into what he is, and I think everyone will be happy.

Yep, playing with house money - either we get to see our Hawks play more games or we get a top-10 pick. Win/win.

It's nice it's an early game so we don't have to wait so long for puck drop.

I don't think there is any issue with Boqvist. I think he is exactly where he is expected to be - overwhelmed by the pace and competition level of NHL playoff hockey. This is not a knock on him. He wasn't really ready to come up this year, but was forced a bit.

I think he'll be fine. He has concentrated on his defense which is the right way for him to develop. Give him the time to develop into what he is, and I think everyone will be happy.
- Chunk

Yep, I agree. He started out a little slow playing for OHL/London last year, his first season in North America. His focus was on defense first and it slowed his offensive game down, but he ramped up his offense as the year progressed and I suspect he's showing the same commitment to staying on the defensive side of the puck knowing how critical it is in the playoffs. He'll come around.

Ok thanks for clarifying your point.
- Taylorst1

You bet. Like I said... I've been all over the place with what I wanted for an outcome.

You summed things up perfectly. Game 1 was a complete team win, that's exactly how this team has to play every game with no room for slacking. Games 2 is more of a reality of this team.

Game 3 chicago played better but that wasn't a high bar to reach after game 2, it was the Oilers imo who outplayed chicago but for 2 lucky bounces in Chicago's favor tonight we would be looking at a possible elimination game for chicago.


Consistency and a lack of talent both players and even coaching. JC has made plenty of head scratching moves or lack of moves.


Imo even if chicago wins this series I don't see enough confidence and consistency in this team to make me believe they can beat vegas , Colorado or st Louis.

Tonight's true test lies in crawford raising his level of play , confidence and proving that he can create magic again by stealing the game.

Playoffs always comes down to which goaltender gets hot at the right time and not only makes the save he should but makes unbelievable saves that make teams go crazy.
- Taylorst1

Outside of a complete meltdown by Crow, I don't think his play really matters. He's been average in this series and they are up 2-1. Hockey results are more influenced by luck than any other sport. https://www.post-gazette....ball/stories/201805070152

What the Hawks can do to win is what they've done the first and last game. Put bodies in front of the net, throw shots in from the point, and have everyone on the same page defensively. They are going up against a team with two of the top five offensive players in the game. I don't see that they will shut them down.

I think he's saying if the Hawks win this play in they and they don't win any more rounds.
- GPHawksfan

Ahh ok. Ya I honestly wasn't sure how it all shock out but that makes sense.

So essentially we are hoping MTL loses just in case the Hawks win this round and then lose the next.

Tyler Cameron: Future vs. Swagger
I've been in a glass case of emotion in the last week or so.

I thought I knew what's best for the Blackhawks for the future and that was to lose this series, get that high draft pick, and continue to stock up through the draft.

I look at how winning this series affects the Hawks for the short and long-term.
- Tyler Cameron

I'm a believer that if you try to control destiny things have a tendency to backfire on you. Play to win, if you win this series great if you don't, have a chance at picking 1st or in the top 3rd of the league. Many wanted them to tank last year and they played well and ended up with the 3rd pick in the draft, so play to win baby, even though i didn't think they deserved to win game 3, i cheered every time i saw the back of the net move in the 3rd period.

I'm a believer that if you try to control destiny things have a tendency to backfire on you. Play to win, if you win this series great if you don't, have a chance at picking 1st or in the top 3rd of the league. Many wanted them to tank last year and they played well and ended up with the 3rd pick in the draft, so play to win baby, even though i didn't think they deserved to win game 3, i cheered every time i saw the back of the net move in the 3rd period.
- BetweenTheDots

I'm so happy you said this so I didn't have to again.

Ahh ok. Ya I honestly wasn't sure how it all shock out but that makes sense.

So essentially we are hoping MTL loses just in case the Hawks win this round and then lose the next.
- Tyler Cameron

Let me expand on that a little Tyler.
We always hope the Habs lose.
PERIOD!

Let me expand on that a little Tyler.
We always hope the Leafs lose.
PERIOD!


- hawk35

Fixed!

If you are sure that the Hawks would get the 1st overall pick you have to cheer for the Hawks and still hope the Oilers win the series.

If you are sure that the Hawks would not get the 1st round pick you have to cheer for the Hawks and hope the Hawks win. They would get some experience in the next round against high caliber competition. That is especially important for the younger players. Moving back a few spots in the draft (from 10 to 14) is not the end of the world.

Since we cannot be sure of either you have to play the percentages. 87.5% chance of not getting the 1st overall pick if you lose to Edmonton. So I am hoping the Hawks win the series.

no Q magic in panther land...

no Q magic in panther land...
- bogiedoc

That's odd. What defensive scheme did he use?

no Q magic in panther land...
- bogiedoc

Panthers, Jets, Rangers out...(any more???)....

We out-lasted 3 teams, at least!!!!!!!

In past years. The Cup years...and contending years.... (2009-2016). I would be a mess. Find it so stressful and nervous watching Hawk playoff hockey.

And two years from now, I expect to be the same. I really love the direction this team is taking.

But, for today....and a Game 5 if needed....I am truly peaceful for this series. Maybe it is the fact we have no business even being at the dance. Maybe it is because the "prize" of first overall is there. Maybe it's just liking the Dach, Kubalik, Bouqvist, etc growth right before my eyes.....

Whatever the case....I can watch the game with my normay cheering interest, but not near the stress as usual.

Go Hawks!!! I am not built to cheer for a "tank"....so win this, and on to the Top 16!!!!
- hawk35

Hilarious, I was just thinking about that the other night. I would have been tied up in knots watching that playoff game.

Now, not so much.

Here's your score card for the positions teams will be picking before one take one out top go in slot #1

9 Montreal .500
10 Chicago .514
Arizona->NJ ? .529
11 Minnesota. .558
12 Winnipeg .563
13 NYRangers .564
Vancouver. .565
14 Nashville. .565
15 Florida. .565
Columbus. .579
16 Toronto -> Hurricanes .579
Edmonton. .585
Pittsburgh -> opts to spend 2021 to Minnesota if they lose their series....623

Just remember YOU SUBTRACT one TEAM who drops into slot #1 so slot #16 is Montreal if they DO lose and Hawks go #16, or Hawks go #17 if Habs win and Hawks win...