Lots going on in this latest blog so lets get right to it, the Hawks where shut out for the 2nd time in 4 games this time to the Hurricanes. Despite the 3-0 score, there were a few positives in this one.
Takeaways
Face off Domination
The Hawks have been absolutely killer in the face off circle this season, and this game was no different. They finished with a team overall of 61% in the dot and Toews continues to impress, winning 18 of the 22 face offs he had taken for an 81.8 winning percentage.
Defense Stepping Up
Now, when a team loses 3-0, this might seem like a strange statement; however, when you take a deeper look at this one, the Hawks allowed just one high-danger scoring opportunity at 5 on 5 and only three in other situations. This really is goes back to Coach Richardsons mantra of making their opponents earn everything they get.
Power Play
Despite going 0-4 with the man advantage, they were still creating chances as they had 8 shots on goal and 6 scoring chances. Kochetkov just had their number and if he was off just a tad, this is a different game.
Next Up St. Louis
Tomorrow night the hated Blues come to town. Currently they are rocking a 6-8 record, winning their last three after losing 8 in a row. This is a team that was expected to finish top three in the division but just couldn’t seem to figure it out after a hot start to the season. If Bennington gets the call for this one I hope the Hawks light him up so we get the side show of him throwing a tantrum and throwing fake punches at the Hawks as he gets pulled (is it obvious I despise him?)
Projected Starter
Jordan Binnington 6-5 3.07 GAA .904 SV%
When it comes to the Hawks, Soderblom gets the call in net once again as they are trying not to overload Mrazek. Expect them to continue to switch off for the foreseeable future. Also, Jason Dickinson is expected back in the lineup after missing the last two games to a non-covid illness. Tyler Johnson continues to be a full participant in practice, so it feels like his return is just around the corner.
Finally, I mentioned it last blog but wanted to bring it up now that its officially live. We recently had Jeremy Roenick on the show talking about his career, opinions on the game today, and his brand new whiskey company. He had some amazing stories including how Mike Keenan got him to play a more physical style of hockey. I know I am biased but it is definitely worth a listen; check it out below when you get a chance!
Chicago Blackhawks Blogger • 
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