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CENTRAL ISSUES: Quick Look/Blues & Rockford News

August 29, 2013, 9:03 AM ET [93 Comments]
John Jaeckel
Chicago Blackhawks Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
Follow JJ on Twitter @jaeckel

This is the third in a daily series on the teams in the NHL's new Central Division, which will culminate in a predicted order of finish.


There is no doubt, the Blues pose the greatest challenge to the Blackhawks within their own division. Well coached, terrific goaltending, a young, talented and mobile defense and a good amount of talent upfront.

However, for some reason, the Blues have failed to take those clear, larger next steps that a younger Blackhawk team did from 2008-2010. They've become a perennially very good team, but have stalled there.

One thing the Blues have done is shake up the roster a bit. Since last Spring, they've added a second line center (Derek Roy), some potential (Magnus Paajarvi), a premier defenseman (Jay Bouwmeester) and some lower line agitation (Maxim LaPierre).

On the basis of all the above, some are picking the Blues to not just perhaps win the Central, but also the Stanley Cup. On paper, at least, there is an argument.

But there's been an argument for the Blues in past preseasons. And the argument has proven flawed.

One thing is for certain, leadership and chemistry matter in hockey in spades. Teams like the Blackhawks, the Bruins, Detroit and Pittsburgh have it, and they have the hardware that comes with it. And, really, none of Roy, LaPierre, Bouwmeester and Paajarvi bring any special credentials in that regard.

Last season, the Blues were a team that seemed easy to get off their game when facing an equal or superior opponent, prone to after the whistle nonsense and other hallmarks of a younger, not fully composed team. But they are now a year older and wiser, and still very talented.

Is David Backes the kind of captain who can take a team to a Stanley Cup? The question remains open. Can the Blues go another season avoiding the seemingly unavoidable eventuality of Ken Hitchcock burnout? And the fact remains that the Blues must get past the Blackhawks to win the Central, much less the Cup. And these types of questions aren't there for Chicago.

Still, the Blues will be a force this year. And this definitely could be their year.


ANNOUNCING HOCKEYBUZZ OUTING NIGHT AT BMO HARRIS BANK CENTER IN ROCKFORD

Sunday, October 27th at 4:00 pm.

This game will be against the Texas Stars and seats have been set aside for this event and will be in the lower bowl of the BMO Harris Bank Center near the goal where the Icehogs shoot twice.

Tickets will be available at a reduced rate for the group, but will not be available for purchase until September 12th when single game tickets go on sale. The seats are $19 each if purchased through Icehogs ticket rep, Ryan Woodrow (tell him this is for Hockeybuzz). Ryan can be contacted either by phone or email:

Phone: (815) 847-6383 email: [email][email protected][/email]

Also, spouses, significant others and children would be welcome and encouraged to attend with the group. If you gave any questions or need other information, contact Eli Kolb at: [email][email protected][/email].



All for now,


JJ
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