The Chicago Blackhawks surrendered the game’s first seven goals on their way to an embarrassing defeat to the Carolina Hurricanes 9-2 in Raleigh on Saturday night. Forwards Jordan Martinook and Andrei Svechnikov each scored two goals as the defeat gave Chicago six straight losses.
One bright spot for Chicago (4-13-1) was captain Connor Bedard had a goal and an assist. Defensemen Wyatt Kaiser and Artyom Levshunov were both an impressive -6 in the game.
Chicago’s most impressive feat was their ability to give up nine even-strength goals in one game and not draw one penalty against the Hurricanes (14-3-2).
Another neat stat for the night came in the hits department. Most fans will look at losing hockey and say they are too soft to play against but Chicago out-hit Carolina 22-8. What most fans do not realize are hits does not make someone difficult to play against; being good is what makes a team difficult to play against.
Goaltenders Spencer Knight and Arvid Soderblom combined for 24 saves.
The Blackhawks will have four days to think about this loss until Thursday when they take on the Buffalo Sabres at the United Center for a 7 p.m. CST puck drop.
Analysis
The rebuild was supposed to start to show its rewards this season, as General Manager Kyle Davidson said so himself, but his team stands at 4-13-1 and look like a minor league team at best.
Fans should be frustrated and there is only one way to do so: stay away from Madison Street.