The Hawks are back at it tonight as they hope to stop the bleeding of the current 4-game losing streak. They will face the LA Kings, who come into this one with a 6-6 record. These Kings where the surprise of the season last year as they were able to surpass expectations and snag the 3rd Pacific Division playoff spot. Currently they are tied with Seattle for that same spot, so they will be coming out strong to make sure they don’t lose out on two early season points against the much weaker Blackhawks.
Players to Watch Gabriel Vilardi 8 goals 5 assists 13 points Kevin Fiala 3 goals 10 assist 13 points Anze Kopitar 2 goals 8 assist 10 points
Projected Starter Jonathan Quick 3-4-0 3.44 GAA .888 SV%
As of posting morning skate hasn’t happened for the Hawks, but I would imagine the line up to look similar to what we saw against the Islanders. As for starting goalie as of now I would anticipate Arvid Soderblom to get the call again as he has been stellar in his two appearances this season. In just 116 minutes this season, he has posted a 3.12 GAA .920 SV%; there were a lot of rumblings that he could end up taking the starting job by the end of the season and id say he’s making a strong case for that.
Quick Notes ~After the scary collision on Tuesday Stalock has been placed in concussion protocol.
~Blackhawks signed goaltender Dylan Wells to a one year 2-way contract. This was a much needed depth signing. Wells has been with Rockford posting a 1-1 record, 4.27 GAA and .862 SV%
~Mrazek has been skating with the team once again and could be ready to go any day now. With all the injuries at goal piling up, this is much needed news. However, with Soderbloms stellar play there maybe no reason to rush him back too quickly, at least not to the starters net.
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