Well, that was a less than auspicious start to the annual Circus Trip.
There have been very few perfect hockey teams in the history of the NHL, and the 2016-17 Chicago Blackhawks, as well as they've played lately, aren't one of them.
Teams who combine size, physicality and speed can give the Hawks problems—and the Winnipeg Jets proved the theory yet again last night.
Games like these will happen to any team, including great teams, in the course of a season. You just don't want to string them in a row or have many of them overall.
The Hawks looked great at times, yet couldn't find the twine behind Connor Hellbuyck. They also looked pretty bad at times, turning pucks over and a day late and a dollar short on a lot of pucks later in the game.
And this game was a sharp reminder that hockey's a man's game—Josh Morrissey's hit on Vince Hinostroza, a case in point.
The Blackhawks are relying on a number of rookies this season, and the psychology of big hits and physical pressure can't be discounted, either within an individual game or over the course of a season.
After a long points streak, the Hawks hit a road bump of adversity last night, and maybe a not-so-subtle reminder that tougher tests await.
Speaking of rookies, last night might have been Michal Kempny's worst game this season. Again, there is a learning and assimilation process going on with this team, and some nights it's going come up snake eyes.
More should be known on line and pairing adjustments tomorrow, and I will also be back with a blog on a different hockey-related topic over the next couple of days.
JJ GET ‘EM PUCK GEAR FOR THE HOLIDAYS!
Check out my friends at www.puckhcky.com for über-cool hockey-themed hats, shirts, hoodies, stickers and more—including the personal clothing line of Marian Hossa, with special 500 Goal gear as well.