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Another Goalie Win

May 3, 2014, 7:44 AM ET [432 Comments]
John Jaeckel
Chicago Blackhawks Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
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In Round 1 of this year's NHL playoffs, I put the challenge to Corey Crawford to deliver some goalie wins. Thus far, including last night's 5-2 Hawk win in Game 1 of Round 2, he's delivered about 3 of them.

Crawford was spectacular. And although the Wild eventually tied the game at 2-2, Patrick Kane took over when he usually does, scoring two consecutive goals (the first of the highlight reel variety).

Other Hawks stepping up included second star (after Kane) Marian Hossa, third star Bryan Bickell, and Ben Smith. Jonathan Toews had a quiet night on the scoresheet but was dominant in the face-off dot. Brandon Bollig had a pretty bad neutral zone turnover leading to a Wild goal, but also had 7 hits in just 8 minutes of TOI.

But credit to the Wild.

Were it not for Crawford and Kane's heroics, the outcome of this one would have been different. Minnesota outshot the Hawks 32-22 and took over the game for long stretches. The Hawks will need to be better because it is doubtful Crawford (or, in fairness, any goalie) will be this good night after night throughout a series.

Still the Hawks held serve and go up 1-0, a number that can't be taken off the board, and they have 6 chances to win 3 more games and advance.

Speaking of Kane, is there a better big game player in the NHL? Hard to say there is. I've been highly critical of Kane disappearing att ones in playoff series. But the weight of evidence, including the Hawks' first round win against St. Louis this year, suggests Kane brings his A-Game when his team needs it, and delivers big time. Typically, Number 88 will wait 'til the last few games of a series, not a Game 1 like last night.

Bickell, also, has been huge thus far in these playoffs, which the Hawks need to get back to the Finals.

Crawford, Bickell, Kane. That's been the formula. Throw in some Smith, Hossa, and Keith. It's been enough so far. but there are likely many games yet to be played and many heroes yet to emerge.

I'll be back soon with a Game 2 preview.


JJ
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