Is there some deeper meaning to today's blog title?
Beyond the Blackhawks taking care of business last night in New York City, not really. But anytime you can paraphrase a classic line from your favorite film, right?
The Hawks gained a measure of revenge on the Rangers, taking two points in their building after losing to the Blue Shirts 1-0 in OT at the UC last week. More importantly, early returns on the restocked lineup were basically OK.
While the Hawks as a whole were underwater (yet again) in shots, the revenant Jonathan Toews joined Patrick Kane, Artem Anisimov, and Artemi Panarin as the lone Hawk forwards over 50% in even strength Corsi. His linemate, Marian Hossa, who led all Hawk forwards in TOI, over 20 minutes, was at 50%.
Scott Darling was, yet again, rock solid when he needed to be, building a compelling body of work in Corey Crawford's absence. The shot totals Darling is facing and his GAA speak for themselves. But he is also delivering under at times immense pressure—like in the third period last night.
Anisimov continues to have a huge season, on pace right now for a 70-point campaign (35/35).
As good as the AK72 line has been all year, the return of Toews should marginally open up things for them as he and Hossa will draw some top defensive assignments that were previously focused entirely on Anisimov and Co. in Toews' absence.
All good news for a team fighting through injuries and lingering chemistry issues—while still racking up a lot of points.
I'll have an Islanders preview tomorrow.
JJ
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