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In this edition of the hotstove we discuss whether the Chicago Blackhawks can make the playoffs, and still have a successful season, without Corey Crawford.
Todd Cordell
I think the Blackhawks are in trouble.
Corey Crawford was playing at an elite level again this year and masking a lot of Chicago's defensive problems (at 5v5, they rank 23rd in suppressing scoring chances and 27th in terms of high-danger chances). Without Crawford, they'll be relying on a guy with a sub .900 save percentage through 25 career games, and a 32-year-old journeyman who just made his debut a few weeks ago. Even if they're able to acquire a stop gap, whoever they get won't hold a candle to Crawford.
I think it'll be tough for the Blackhawks to slip into the playoffs in a crowded Western Conference and, even if they do, they won't last very long if they don't have Crawford.
James Tanner
The Blackhawks deserve full marks for being a very good team. Last year, they weren't that good, but they had some great results. This year, it's the opposite.
They're obviously not the powerhouse they were a few years ago, but they remain one of the NHL's better teams. They are near the top of the league in possession, and shot generation. Unfortunately, they allow a ton of shots against and play a very high tempo game.
Their style might hurt them with Crawford out. He's been fairly amazing this year and without him they might have trouble trading chances like they've done for most of the year.
Losing Crawford hurts them, but I think they can make up the four points they're out by currently if they continue to be one of the NHL's best teams - goalie or not.
Peter Tessier
No! They need to make a desperate deal to have them fight for a playoff spot. They probably need to overpay for a goalie too. One guy they should overpay for is Michael Hutchinson who is lighting up the AHL on the Manitoba Moose. The Jets and Blackhawks have a long history of working together to get deals done due to Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff's former role in that organization.
While goalie's are voodoo and nothing is certain, Hutchinson is playing to get another contract and he deserves a chance to showcase his talents somewhere. Git 'er done Chevy.
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