It was more than (a much needed) two points. It was about as big a win as you can have 11 games into a season.
Why? The Blackhawks have been struggling. Struggling to manufacture offense on more than one line. Struggling to beat Western Conference teams. Struggling for an identity.
All three of which, to one degree or another, they may have accomplished in last night’s 4-2 victory over a streaking Kings club.
I suggested on the message board thread the other day that it might be time for Joel Quenneville to split up the team’s two most dynamic offensive players, Patrick Kane, and Artemi Panarin, and get both top lines going. Last night, that’s what happened. Panarin got the scoring started with a brilliant, blind, long backhand pass to Ryan Garbutt, who held Jonathan Quick long enough before a perfect pass for the one-timer to Jonathan Toews.
The retooled Kane line? 3 goals, 2 assists, all in a decisive third period.
But there was more. The Hawks played 5 rookies last night—and all played relatively well. Most notably, Erik Gustafsson is making a claim on the #7 defenseman job (at least).
In his first game back from Rockford, Marko Dano was noticeable, flashing his hands and creativity around the net more than once.
This doesn’t necessarily ignite a whole season, but it was ample proof to the Hawks and the rest of the league that this team is far from done—and there may be the elements here of a very formidable team.
Another test looms, when the banged up, but still potent St. Louis Blues invade the UC Wednesday night. Marian Hossa is possible to return then. Duncan Keith remains at least 2-3 weeks away. I’ll have a Blues preview tomorrow.
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