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As predicted here, Hawks in 6.
It certainly wasn't all easy for the Hawks yesterday. before their offensive floodgates opened in the third period, Corey Crawford, to his credit, had to keep the Hawks in Game 6, with big save after big save on multiple St. Louis power plays.
The Hawks' biggest stars came up big, Premiere Etoile Duncan Keith with a goal, 3 assists and +3. Jonathan Toews and Patrick Sharp had goals, Sharp's through battling to the net through St. Louis hooks and whacks, sheer will and effort.
Marcus Kruger, +2 and 8-3 in the face-off dot.
Brent Seabrook, in his first game back from suspension, +3.
Bryan Bickell, a critical contributor in last year's Cup run, a goal and 4 hits.
The Blues were a game opponent, but much like the trajectory of Game 6 itself, at the end of the day, the Hawks' resolve and experience turned the series in their favor.
The other thing the Hawks can feel good about, and testament to the strength of the Blues, is the Hawks may have dispensed with their biggest threat in the West in Round 1.
The Hawks now await the winner of the Wild-Avalanche series—with a chance to rest up a bit—and a bit of a confidence boost.
Enjoy it Hawk fans. At least one more round of playoff hockey awaits you.
All for now,
JJ