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Chicago Blackhawks (46-20-15) at Nashville Predators (36-32-12) 7PM Central NBCSN/WGN
THE BUZZ
Last night, looking for their fifth straight win without star forwards Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, and resting #1 defenseman Duncan Keith, the Hawks got shut out by the Washington Capitals.
It wasn't pretty.
So you'd think it's important that they play well tonight in the regular season finale in the Music City. Momentum and confidence, something the Hawks had in full measure until last night, are important going in to the playoffs.
But, word is, a number of regulars may rest tonight—Antti Raanta, who replaced a beleaguered Corey Crawford at the start of the third period last night, gets the start tonight versus countryman Pekka Rinne.
It would be fair to say that Joel Quenneville, in spite of last night's poor showing, is confident in his team, especially with the imminent return of Kane and Toews.
But even with some regulars resting tonight, it would seem you want to avoid a full out shellac job tonight against the Preds. Hopefully, the Hawks will play hard and within their system.
It also now appears the Hawks are headed to likely first round dance with the very banged up St. Louis Blues. I'll be back tomorrow with more on tonight's game—as well as some thoughts on the Hawks going in to the playoffs.
Until then,
JJ