In the early portion of the period, the Golden Knights dominated play, although the score stayed tied at goose eggs for both teams. However, the scoring silence did not last long. 

Right around the midpoint of the period, Jonathan Marchessault made a perfect pass from below the goal line to Paul Stastny out in front of Corey Crawford. The pass evaded numerous skates and sticks on its way to Stastny’s stick, who easily banged home the feed and gave Vegas an early 1–0 lead. 

Hi, I'm Paul! #VegasBorn | @Raising_Canes pic.twitter.com/Z59nVC8oTv

— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) August 13, 2020

The Golden Knights continued to dominate play in the first period. Just around five minutes after the Golden Knights took a 1–0 lead, Vegas added more. Tomas Nosek, who was inserted into the lineup because Max Pacioretty was deemed unfit to play, rifled a perfect shot past Crawford and gave the home team the early two-goal advantage at 2–0. 

great time of year for GOALS #VegasBorn | @Raising_Canes pic.twitter.com/sMdAGbFBTD

— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) August 13, 2020

The Hawks took their two-goal disadvantage into the intermission and regrouped. Just three minutes into the middle frame, Patrick Kane set up Calvin de Haan for a shot on Vegas goaltender Robin Lehner. However, the blue liner’s first shot was blocked, his second was stopped, but the rebound found Kirby Dach at the side of the net and the youngster cut into the Golden Knights’ lead at 2–1. The goal was the rookie’s first ever postseason goal. 

Eh, what's up Dach?

Watch live: https://t.co/mfQ1ZBTGTC pic.twitter.com/UFz9tEUxl2

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 13, 2020

The Hawks continued their push on the power play. After being set up by Kane, Dominik Kubalik fired an absolute missile of a wrist shot past Lehner to tie the game at 2–2. The shot from Kubalik was placed perfectly where Lehner could not stop it, grazing the pipe before finding the back of the net. 

Kubalik ties it up with a nifty wrister!

Watch live: https://t.co/mfQ1ZBTGTC pic.twitter.com/BI5pyzq7dO

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 13, 2020

However, the Golden Knights flexed their muscles and showed why they are the better team. With about three minutes remaining in the second period, Mark Stone tapped home a loose puck around the net to give the home team the one-goal advantage once again at 3–2. The goal was Stone’s third of the postseason. 

yep. we like this. #VegasBorn | @Raising_Canes pic.twitter.com/BCfES9mVvS

— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) August 13, 2020

One thing Blackhawks’ fans are learning about this team is that they really do not quit. Just before the end of the period, Chicago turned into the Harlem Globetrotters, as Kane received a cross-ice pass before slinging the puck to Dylan Strome, who was back door in the blue paint. In one fluent motion, Strome tapped home the perfect feed from Kane and tied the game at 3–3 just before the end of the period. 

tic tac GOAL!

Watch live: https://t.co/mfQ1ZBTGTC pic.twitter.com/XgdMcRN0kk

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 13, 2020

There was not much action in the third, as both teams were scoreless despite the Golden Knights brutally outshooting the Hawks. However, the score remained knotted at 3–3 and Game Two was heading for overtime. 

Despite pushing the game to extra time, the Blackhawks ended up falling short. After a great sequence by the Golden Knights in the Blackhawks’ zone, Stastny threw a perfect pass to Reilly Smith in front of Crawford and the Vegas forward tipped the puck past Crawford to give the Golden Knights the 4–3 win for a 2–0 series lead. 

YOU SIMPLY LOVE TO SEE IT #VegasBorn | @Raising_Canes pic.twitter.com/8nVZyRbdZe

— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) August 14, 2020

Around the boards

BREAKING NEWS @NHLBlackhawks…

SHOOT THE PUCK!#AllforOne #CHIvsVGK #Blackhawks #VegasBorn

— Puckin Hostile (@PuckinHostile.bsky.social) (@PuckinHostile) August 13, 2020

The Blackhawks missed many key opportunities to shoot the puck in this game. There were two opportunities alone for Strome and Dach where they elected to pass instead of shoot. Who knows what may have happened had those passes been shots in this one. The post was the Blackhawks’ best—or worst—friend as well, continuing the “what if” movement offensively for this one. 

If you’re looking to get a #Blackhawks sweater, with a non-One Goal Dynasty player, go with Dach #77. Kid’s going to be a great player for Chicago for a long time. Book it.

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) August 13, 2020

Get your jerseys folks; despite a Vegas victory, Dach looked very good once again for the Blackhawks tonight, scoring the first postseason goal of his career. He continues to play strong games in the playoffs and is not afraid to try and carry a line at times. Look for Dach to be a star for a very long time. 

Honestly I don’t hate Slater Koekkoek. He works hard. Has some offensive talent. Not a bad 5-6 guy if you have a decent top 4. #AllforOne #CHIvsVGK #Blackhawks #VegasBorn

— Puckin Hostile (@PuckinHostile.bsky.social) (@PuckinHostile) August 14, 2020

How about Slater Koekkoek? The former first-round pick was dogged by fans, myself included, for a long time. However, he seems to have found a home opposite of Olli Maatta and as a third-pairing defenseman for the Blackhawks. If the Blackhawks only have two young defensemen ready to step into the big-league roster next year, Koekkoek may have found a home on the third pairing for the Hawks.

The Blackhawks will return to action against the Golden Knights as the home team on Saturday at 7 p.m. CDT. 

The post RECAP: Golden Knights take commanding lead in series with OT win appeared first on The Rink.

The Blackhawks needed a great game in Game 1 to have any chance against the Edmonton Oilers. Fans sat in anticipation as Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews looked to take down two of the league’s best in Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid. 

Despite the Blackhawks understanding the importance of this game, they proceeded to take a terrible penalty in the game’s first minute and a half. A too many men penalty sent the Oilers top powerplay unit into action. As many probably expected, Connor McDavid tallied from the left wing side of the ice to give the home team the early 1–0 lead. 

Playoff Connor: Activated. #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/dOoGodqcps

— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) August 1, 2020

After about six minutes of play, the Hawks’ second line had a golden opportunity. After Kane was denied on a point blank chance following an Oscar Klefbom turnover, Mike Smith mishandled the puck behind the net and right to Dylan Strome. Strome banked the puck off of Smith as he returned to his crease and tied the game for the visitors. 

The Strome's a-brewin'#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/gfGE5GClbb

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 1, 2020

Not too long after Strome tallied the tying mark, he preceded to draw a penalty and send the Hawks to the power play. Edmonton pushed Patrick Kane into the right wing corner, knowing he was the focal point of the power play. However, the puck squeaked out of the corner and onto the stick of Dominik Kubalik, who found Jonathan Toews wide open on a backhand pass. Toews finished top shelf against Smith and gave the Hawks the lead. 

The best leader in hockey just put the @NHLBlackhawks ahead! pic.twitter.com/rUHe86KKqK

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) August 1, 2020

In what seemed to be a momentum shift, the Blackhawks struck again. This time, a point shot from Olli Maatta was tipped in front of Smith by Brandon Saad. The puck changed direction so much that it would have been difficult to stop. The tally gave the Blackhawks an early two goal lead against the favored Oilers. 

https://twitter.com/NBCSBlackhawks/status/1289649435429879808

Hockey players always say momentum is a real thing. Well, the momentum was in favor of the Blackhawks because they were not stopping. The top line forechecked hard against the McDavid line and Brandon Saad pressured McDavid into a turnover. Kubalik found the puck and dished it to the captain who buried his second (yes, second) goal of the game and gave the Hawks a 4–1 lead early in this game.

Jonathan Toews scores his second goal of the first period and Dominik Kubalik picks up his THIRD assist. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/8k1lBqXAQK

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) August 1, 2020

The Blackhawks carried the momentum through the whole entire opening frame. The Oilers looked asleep, and Chicago was trying to put their foot on Edmonton’s hypothetical throats in this game. They had to keep it up in order to hold on though, as the Oilers still have so much fire power. 

The teams opened the second period and Edmonton found some sense of urgency. About four minutes into the period, the Oilers were able to get a goal back on the power play. Leon Draisaitl tapped home a McDavid pass after some chaos around the blue paint. Corey Crawford was a little slow to get back to his crease, leaving an open net. 

However, the Blackhawks found a way to get one back. After a Darnell Nurse penalty, Duncan Keith tee’d up Domink Kubalik for a beautiful one-timer on the right wing boards. Kubalik finished off the feed for his first goal of the day and his fourth point of the game to regain the Blackhawks’ three-goal lead. Mike Smith subsequently was pulled in favor of Mikko Koskinen after Kubalik’s one-timer.

#KubyKannon #Blackhawks #CHivsEDM #AllForOne 5-2 https://t.co/VnYqgIWUPq

— Puckin Hostile (@PuckinHostile.bsky.social) (@PuckinHostile) August 1, 2020

After plenty of back and forth action, the Blackhawks added to their already impressive lead. On the power play, yet again, Dominik Kubalik tipped a Keith shot from the point past Koskinen with about two minutes and change left in the period. The goal was Kubalik’s second goal and fifth point of the day.

ANOTHER ONE!

Dominik Kubalik redirects Duncan Keith's blast in and it's 6-2! #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/DB9Xy4uJqF

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 1, 2020

As action entered the third, both teams were quiet on the score sheet. With three and a half minutes remaining, the Oilers pulled Koskinen in favor of the extra attacker. The strategy worked twice for Edmonton in the span of about 35 seconds, as James Neal hammered home a puck in a scrum in front of Crawford, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins tallied on a tip of a point shot. 

Despite Patrick Kane’s empty-net goal being overturned, the Blackhawks held on to win 6–4 over the favored Oilers. It was quite a game from the #12 seed Blackhawks, and the game certainly gave fans hope of what is to come.

Around the boards

Is this revenge for 2012? It’s really nice to see Mike Smith get his ass handed to him. #Blackhawks #CHivsEDM #AllForOne pic.twitter.com/xboI5J0qWZ

— Puckin Hostile (@PuckinHostile.bsky.social) (@PuckinHostile) August 1, 2020

It was nice seeing the Blackhawks enact some revenge on Mike Smith, who is almost 100% responsible for eliminating Chicago from the playoffs back in 2012. Today, the Blackhawks got Smith for five goals, and fans loved seeing him leave the game after the Kubalik one-timer on the power play. 

#Oilers not keeping their feet moving, making the #Blackhawks look quicker than them. #CHIvsEDM

— Ray Napientek (@NapsakRay) August 1, 2020

The Oilers did not look fast today; multiple Blackhawks players, including Toews, Saad, and Kubalik, made Edmonton look slow. Much of that was due to the Oilers not looking ready to play. However, instead of the Blackhawks playing down to Edmonton’s level today, they took their energy through the roof and were able to keep the Oilers in a bad situation for almost the entire game. 

4-1 #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/n39KcmU2na

— Sean Fitzgerald (@Diesal3426) August 1, 2020

Yeah, I felt that way too. I think most Blackhawks fans felt that way today after they brutally outplayed the Oilers. The key moving forward is for Chicago to keep that up. If they can sustain that level of offense, they could steal this series against Edmonton. If I’m one of the leaders on the team, I’m feeling good and letting guys feel confident, but reminding guys this is only game one, they need to win two more before they can truly experience real playoff hockey. 

The Blackhawks and Oilers will be back on NBCSN on Monday, August 3. The game is scheduled to begin at 9:30 p.m. CDT.

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks take care of Oilers in Game 1 appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com writers led by RHL (Rink Hockey League) Commissioner Mario Tirabassi and RHL General Managers Jeff Osborn (1st overall), Ron Luce (2nd), Eric Andrews (3rd), Aaron Goldschmidt (4th), John Jaeckel (5th), Ray Napientek (6th), and Mr. Irrelevent Sean Fitzgerald (7th) get together to have a little fun and draft their own RHL franchises comprised only of Blackhawks players since the ’05 lockout.

• • Draft finished like this but worth listening/watching to this one

The-Rink.com Blackhawks fantasy draft results.

Watch the entire replay of the ZOOM draft on Facebook live right here:

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• Aaron gives us a rundown of the Avalanche.
• The news that Dylan Strome could be available.
• The Blackhawks goaltending uncertainty.
• What do we think of Jeremy Colliton?
• Some prospect names to look forward to.
• If you are interested in writing for The Rink for any division, email writefor@the-rink.com

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The post Blackhawks Rinkcast – Season 3, Episode 16 – Video Roundtable appeared first on The Rink.

From the Wolves’ organization:

Oscar has done his utmost to emulate Snyder throughout the 2019-20 season, his third with the organization. In addition to maintaining his tradition of being a positive presence at all Wolves fundraisers and community events, he organized half the team for an outing to Ronald McDonald House in downtown Chicago. Ronald McDonald House provides a place for families to call home so they can stay close to their hospitalized loved ones at no cost. Oscar and the rest of the Wolves not only prepared dinner for all of these families one night, they spent the afternoon engaged with the children – playing basketball, signing autographs, working on their TikTok dance moves and more.

On top of that, Dansk formed a special bond with a 17-year-old boy named Angelo. Angelo is a frequent visitor at Lurie’s Children’s Hospital as he fights bone cancer.

Over the course of a month, Oscar hosted the Daichendt family for two Wolves games — Angelo’s first professional sporting events — and visited their home twice. On his first visit, they spent hours talking and playing video games and enjoyed a meal together.

“Oscar was just the nicest guy,” Denise (Daichendt) said. “I’ve been with Make-A-Wish for 17 or 18 years and I’ve seen a lot of wishes, but he really took such a sincere interest in Angelo and all of us. It was like he was part of the family. He just fit right in. I looked at my husband and said, ‘I think we found our eighth child!’ I couldn’t believe he came to our house. He went above and above and beyond. We had had such a rough few weeks and it was a great break. He really, really brought a lot of joy for us. We just love him to death.”

Dansk is in his third season with the organization. Over three years with the team, Dansk has accumulated 58 wins, a 2.49 goals against average and a .913 save percentage. This season, before the stoppage, Dansk had 18 wins, a 2.57 goals against average and a .908 save percentage.

The post Oscar Dansk named Chicago Wolves IOA/American Speciality AHL Man of the Year for 2019–20 appeared first on The Rink.

The Blackhawks were very shorthanded on the backend for Friday’s game. After news surfaced that Lucas Carlsson had entered concussion protocol after taking a puck to the head in Thursday’s game, Dennis Gilbert was recalled from Rockford. Initially, it seems like Gilbert was merely an insurance policy, as Nick Seeler was slotted to join the lineup instead of Gilbert. However, just before puck drop, it was announced that Adam Boqvist would not play due to a wrist injury, so Gilbert indeed drew into the lineup in place of the young Swede.

Another interesting note ahead of Friday’s game was Corey Crawford getting the start again in net. It is rare for a goalie to play both games of a back-to-back, but Chicago head coach Jeremy Colliton went with the veteran netminder over giving newly acquired Malcolm Subban a chance in net against the league’s worst team.

The first period began well for the Blackhawks, especially for hometown boy DeBrincat. Just over a minute into the game, DeBrincat and Drake Caggiula had a two-on-one opportunity and DeBrincat, who was ultimately the trigger man, was robbed by Red Wings goaltender Jonathan Bernier.

The first period would not yield much else for either side and both teams went into the dressing room with no scoring in the first.

Just 20 seconds into the middle frame, the home team struck. After the puck was being played on the left-wing boards, Dylan Larkin found the puck and dished it from the boards to Tyler Bertuzzi, who was sitting just off to Crawford’s opposite side in the slot. Bertuzzi wasted no time and fired the puck past Crawford for his 19th of the season and a 1–0 Red Wings advantage.

Bert getting the party started! #LGRW pic.twitter.com/wwCGBBt2uA

— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) March 7, 2020

The Hawks had two two-on-one opportunities following the Detroit goal, however neither worked out after a bit of a missed pass from Brandon Saad to Jonathan Toews and a quality save on Dylan Strome by Bernier.

Around the midway point of the second period, the Red Wings found themselves on the power play. Just after the 10-minute mark, there was a huge board battle in the left wing corner of the ice, occupying most of the Blackhawks’ penalty killers. After the puck was freed by Frans Nielsen, Gustav Lindstrom found Robby Fabbri and, with the puck on a silver platter, Fabbri found the back of the net on the one-timer to give the Red Wings a 2–0 lead.

Robby Fabbri.

WHAT. A. LASER. pic.twitter.com/8kSBkkwZK2

— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) March 7, 2020

Both goals were excellent one-time chances for the home club. It is safe to say Corey Crawford did not stand much of a chance on either play. However, on the second goal, Fabbri’s shot actually deflected off of Gilbert, who dove in front of the shot to block it. Gilbert’s attempt changed the angle of the shot on Crawford and made the shot increasingly more difficult to stop.

The Blackhawks almost beat Bernier with around eight minutes remaining, as Kirby Dach thought he put the puck behind the Red Wings goaltender on a DeBrincat shot rebound. However, the puck clanked the post and danced along the line, but never crossed, and play continued.

It took the remainder of the period and a bit of line blending before the Hawks could beat Bernier. With just over a minute left in the period, Colliton threw Toews and Saad out with Patrick Kane to get something going. On their rush up the ice, Saad initially found Toews, but he lost the puck and it dribbled behind Detroit’s net. Toews regained possession and found Saad in front of Bernier. Without missing a beat, Saad quickly moved the puck to Kane, who was backdoor, and he potted his 31st goal of the season to cut the Wings’ lead in half at 2–1.

Toews Saad Kane

That's more like it! pic.twitter.com/0h2oHf54Qg

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) March 7, 2020

However, despite some good chances in the third period, the Blackhawks could not crack Bernier the rest of the way and saw their winning streak come to a screeching halt, as the Blackhawks dropped Friday’s contest 2–1 in Detroit.

Along the Boards

It is sad when the worst team in the league handles you as if it is nothing. Yes, the Blackhawks had some quality chances throughout the game, such as DeBrincat’s two-on-one snipe, Dach’s rebound chance and Kane’s goal, but this team never sustained any meaningful pressure on the Red Wings for much of the game. It is tough to beat a team on a back-to-back, but this Blackhawks team had a lot of success in the second half of back-to-backs this season.

Now, a big reason for that success was the goaltending duo of Crawford and recently traded Robin Lehner. Lehner started the first half of most back-to-backs and a healthy, strong Crawford cleaned up the second half. It was a sensational combination. However, fast forward to now, Lehner is gone, Malcolm Subban is now the Blackhawks’ backup goalie to Crawford, and this coaching staff refuses to play the new netminder.

Subban may have struggled this season in his time with Vegas, but you would think the young goalie would get a chance against the league’s worst team, right? Wrong. Subban once again watched from the visitor’s bench in Detroit, as Crawford took his second game in two days after helping the Blackhawks defeat the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday night at the United Center.

It is also worth mentioning that Boqvist’s wrist injury really hurt the Blackhawks defensively, as did Carlsson’s injury. The two young defensemen were playing very well, and Boqvist was finding his touch as the offensive playmaker fans hoped he would become when the Hawks drafted him eighth overall in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. Due to the injuries, enter Seeler and Gilbert, who both played an average game at best. Gilbert turned the puck over quite a bit and there were a few chances where Crawford bailed out his young defenseman.

It would be easy to blame Friday’s loss on the lack of defensive depth, but it really seemed that this team just looked tired. Fortunately for the Hawks, Friday’s game was only one of four road contests in the entire month of March. The Blackhawks get plenty of home cooking in March, restarting that trend on Sunday night when they welcome the Western Conference leading St. Louis Blues to town.

The Blackhawks are still mathematically in the playoff picture. However, I am going to be the pin that pricks the balloon. This team is not making the playoffs. They do not have enough depth right now to make a meaningful push. If Lehner was still in Chicago, Calvin de Haan and Brent Seabrook were healthy and the Hawks were at full strength coming down the stretch, I’d say there is a chance. However, Lehner is now in Las Vegas, de Haan and Seabrook are done for the year, along with Andrew Shaw and Zack Smith, and this team looks tired because of that lack of depth. They may hang in there down the stretch, but they will likely be picking in the top 10 of June’s draft if the standings stay the way they are. Now, this could be a good thing if the Hawks add another piece such as Boqvist or Dach, who were both top-10 picks over the last two years, but that will be up to Stan Bowman, or whoever the general manager is come June, to make a very meaningful decision for this team’s future.

News

Just before the submission of this recap, the Blackhawks reassigned Gilbert back to the Rockford IceHogs. This may indicate that Boqvist is healthy and will play Sunday since it was confirmed that Carlsson has a concussion.

ROSTER MOVE: Defenseman Dennis Gilbert has been reassigned to Rockford. #Blackhawks https://t.co/qbB18HIbVW

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 7, 2020

The Blackhawks return to action on Sunday against the St. Louis Blues. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CDT at the United Center.

The post Along the Boards: Blackhawks fall 2–1 to lowly Red Wings appeared first on The Rink.

Unlike normal Wolves pieces here at The-Rink, this piece is a little more primed toward the playoffs. As the AHL schedule approaches the month of March, teams are starting to settle into their respective playoff spots. However, the middle of the Central Division is tighter than a parking spot in the city of Chicago. As of March 2^nd, the San Antonio Rampage, Wolves, Grand Rapids Griffins, and Rockford IceHogs are all within one point of each other, with games played being the major differentiator.

This further emphasizes how bad the Wolves five losses in six games was at the end of February and very beginning of March. These games are critical, especially with how often the Wolves play their own division, so every game matters, especially with the season beginning to whine down.

An argument for the Wolves struggles could be their lack of roster depth. With players such as Nicholas Roy and Zach Whitecloud bouncing between the Vegas Golden Knights and the Wolves, it is tough for the Wolves to ice a fully healthy squad on a nightly basis.

The Wolves have received some reinforcements from the Golden Knights. Cody Glass and Nic Hague are both on the roster after seeing significant time with the parent club this season. Both players will be keys in the playoff run the Wolves are about to endure.

Despite Glass being returned to the Wolves, he was injured and has not played since February 20^th. The Wolves are also without Keegan Kolesar, who was hurt against Milwaukee on January 31^st. The Wolves have lacked health lately and that is starting to pile up on the Wolves’ game results as the season wears on.

Another noted problem for the Wolves this season has been scoring. As the team stands now, Tye McGinn leads the team in goals with 17. Other players over ten goals for the season include rookie Lucas Elvenes, Brandon Pirri, Curtis McKenzie, Gage Quinney, and Dylan Coghlan. Aside from those six players, the Wolves do not have anyone else on the roster with more than ten goals. The lack of depth scoring has been an issue.

Brandon Pirri has been nearly a point-per-game player since being returned to Chicago from Vegas 38 games ago. Photo: Chicago Wolves

From a total points perspective, the Wolves have four players above 30 total points so far this season. Those players include Elvenes, Pirri, McKenzie, and Quinney. Unfortunately, the Wolves have not been able to get a lot of scoring, and in games when the offense isn’t clicking, the Wolves tend to fall on the wrong side of the game outcome.

In net, the Wolves have had good goaltending this season. Both goaltenders have a save percentage equal to or better than 0.905 and a goal against average lower than 2.80. However, in games when the offense cannot get going, a two-goal game from either Garett Sparks or Oscar Dansk results in a loss rather than a win.

Garrett Sparks has been part of a good tandem for the Wolves this season with net-mate Oscar Dansk. Photo: Chicago Wolves

As the season begins to come to a close, the Wolves are in a position to control their own destiny as they look to make the playoffs. The Wolves will play six games in a row at home, starting on Thursday, March 5. The Wolves only have one more trip of any major distance left on the schedule when they visit the Texas Stars for two games in mid-to-late March.

Aside from those games, trips to Milwaukee, Grand Rapids and Rockford highlight the schedule for the rest of March and April. The Wolves can take advantage of a home-heavy schedule and short trips against their own division to further solidify their position in the Calder Cup Playoffs picture.

It’s going to be a wild run Wolves’ fans. Until next time, see you at the Wolves Den.

The post From the Wolves’ Den: Wolves in a tough spot heading into playoffs appeared first on The Rink.

After a tough loss to the New York Rangers on Wednesday night, the Blackhawks were on home ice once again against the Nashville Predators for some Margaritaville Friday night action at the United Center.

Notably, Corey Crawford started for the Blackhawks and Erik Gustafsson was a healthy scratch. Lehner has been rumored to be potentially dealt, but it seems that Gustafsson’s days in Chicago are numbered as the deadline approaches.

The first period yielded nothing for either team. However, the Blackhawks did play some quality hockey during the first period. They outshot the visiting Predators in the first period and put together arguably their best power play in the last five games. There was a lot of good in the first period.

The best scoring chance of the period was a shorthanded breakaway for Brandon Saad. Saad drew a penalty shot but could not convert on the free chance.

After one period, the game was scoreless, but the Hawks showed a lot of promise.

In the second period, the tide turned, and it felt like a classic case of Déjà vu. The Blackhawks showed no energy in the middle frame and the Predators took advantage of it.

At the 14:56 mark on the second period, Mattias Ekholm scored to give the visitors the lead. It came to a surprise that it took this long for the Predators to score. The Preds registered 20 shots on goal in the period but only got one past Corey Crawford. “Crow” looked sensational in the middle frame and was the top reason the Blackhawks were only down one goal after 40 minutes.

The third period was fairly even early. However, the Blackhawks found momentum in the third and ultimately tied the game.

At the 9:05 mark, the power play went to work for the home team. Patrick Kane found the puck on the left-wing side and ripped a shot on net. The shot hit Alex DeBrincat and beat Pekka Rinne to tie the game at one-a-piece.

MEOW!

Watch live: https://t.co/mfQ1ZBTGTC pic.twitter.com/gXzGJm5VID

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 22, 2020

The opportunity was critical for the Blackhawks. After a dominant middle frame for Nashville, the third period yielded life for the home team and gave them a chance to strike. The power play capitalizing was critical since the man advantage was atrocious of late.

Despite the Blackhawks onslaught in the third, Pekka Rinne stood tall, especially in crunch time. With about 17 seconds left, Rinne made two massive saves that saved what looked like a guaranteed Blackhawks goal to send the game to extra time. Both goalies were incredible all night long.

Overtime provided plenty of excitement, but ultimately the hometown faithful would be rewarded.

With just over a minute remaining in the extra time, Alex DeBrincat found himself on a breakaway in the overtime period. DeBrincat beat Rinne top shelf for his second goal of the night and the overtime winner for the Blackhawks. The Blackhawks won 2–1 over the Predators.

The Cat pounces in overtime! #Purr

(via @EASportsNHL) pic.twitter.com/0dfaBpHBdZ

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 22, 2020

Along the boards

Tonight’s game was a well needed one for Alex DeBrincat. Two goals in this one helped inch the undersized winger closer to 20 goals on the season. This is normally a nice number for most players, but after a 41-goal season last year, DeBrincat’s play has been a bit underwhelming this season.

Corey Crawford was unbelievable in Friday’s contest. He played some of the best hockey we’ve seen all year at the goaltender position, especially in the second period when the Predators registered 20 shots and only one goal. Crawford may be the number one reason for this win over the Preds.

The trade deadline speculation is causing some hysteria in Blackhawks Twitter. Some thin Robin Lehner may be traded, others think it could be Crawford. Erik Gustafsson sat on Friday so it’s hard to believe he will not be traded also. It’s going to be an exciting few days for the Blackhawks.

The Blackhawks resume play on Sunday afternoon as they travel to Dallas to take on the Stars at 2:00 p.m. CST.

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks down Predators, 2–1 in overtime appeared first on The Rink.

Game recaps

Feb. 6 and 7

Over the weekend of Feb. 6 and 7, the Wolves split their two-game stint in Manitoba against the Moose. After defeating the Moose the weekend prior at home, the Moose enacted revenge in Thursday’s game, downing the visiting Wolves 3–2.

The Wolves had a lead going into the third period after goals from Lucas Elvenes and Nic Hague. However, it was not enough, as the Moose rallied and a C.J. Suess power play tally won the game for the host team with just 3:46 remaining in the tilt.

The loss was Oscar Dansk’s first regulation loss since Nov. 29, further affirming how sensational Dansk has been since November.

On Feb. 7, the Wolves salvaged the weekend and defeated the Moose by a score of 2–0. Dansk manned the net again and stopped all 25 shots he faced to earn his third shutout of the season. The Wolves offense was provided by Tye McGinn, who had been very hot of late with his scoring touch scoring four goals in his prior four games, and Gage Quinney.

Ideally, the Wolves could have taken both games of the weekend, but a split is certainly better than nothing when on the road for back-to-back games. The Wolves had the benefit of being off for six days before playing again on Feb. 13 against the league-best Milwaukee Admirals.

Feb. 13, 15 and 16

The Wolves’ three prior games were certainly a tale of hot and cold. The Wolves began their three-game weekend in underwhelming fashion. The Wolves were down 2–0 to the Milwaukee Admirals after 40 minutes and needed some spark. However, against a very tough Admirals team, that was unlikely.

Did I say underwhelming? I meant exhilarating. Did I say unlikely? Anything is possible. The Wolves did the unexpected in the third period, scoring four goals on four shots in just under five minutes of play to take the lead. The Wolves came out and showed they were the better team in the third, as Gage Quinney, Dylan Coghlan, Valentin Zykov and newly returned Cody Glass scored during the stretch.

Cody Glass awaits the puck in his first professional game since Jan. 7. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Wolves)

Tye McGinn added the empty-net tally for his 15th of the season to seal the win for the Wolves, capping off an extraordinary comeback against a very good Milwaukee team.

Coach Rocky Thompson attributed the team’s success in the third period to some line changes, getting the team going and freshening things up in order to find success.

During Saturday’s tilt, the outcome was vastly different. Despite the game being 1–1 early, the Wolves let the Grand Rapids Griffins take over the game and jump out to a 5–1 by the first seven minutes of the third period. Jake Bischoff added a late tally, but the game was a lost cause. The Griffins’ win is worrisome for the Wolves as the standings between spots three and six are only separated by five points. The division is getting tight aside from the Admirals and Wild at the top.

The Wolves celebrate one of their two goals in the loss to Grand Rapids on Feb. 15. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Wolves)

The Wolves’ final game on Sunday required some overtime heroics to send the home team away happy. After goals from Dylan Coghlan and Curtis McKenzie in regulation, the teams were tied at two goals apiece entering the overtime period. In the overtime period, Brandon Pirri found Coghlan wide open in the slot and the defenseman fired home his second of the evening to give the Wolves the 3–2 in overtime.

Dylan Coghlan celebrates after scoring the overtime winner against the Cleveland Monsters on Feb. 16. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Wolves)

Overall, the weekend was successful for the Wolves, despite a rough outing on Saturday. The key for the Wolves now is simple, win. The middle pack of the division is too close for comfort and will require some major winning streaks form any of those teams to separate themselves from the pack. The Wild and Admirals are well ahead, but the Moose, who are in last place, are only nine points back of the Wolves in third.

Preview, Glass and Whitecloud return

News broke on Tuesday that Cody Glass and Zach Whitecloud were sent down to the Wolves ahead of Thursday’s game at the Allstate Arena against Grand Rapids. After Thursday’s game, the Wolves will travel to Milwaukee for a tilt against the Admirals on Friday and return home on Sunday to face instate rival Rockford.

With the return of Glass and Whitecloud, it is uncertain how long the two will be down. Vegas has been on a carousel sending players such as Nic Hague and Nicholas Roy back and forth between the big club and the Wolves. There is always a chance this happens with Whitecloud and, especially, Glass during this late stretch of the season.

There is a solid chance that Cody Glass remains down with the Wolves for the stretch run in March. Glass has been injured since January and only returned to game action last week for the Wolves against Milwaukee. The games would be good for Glass to get back in the swing of things and, since Vegas is hot without Glass, they may allow him to dominate the AHL for the remainder of the season with anticipation he starts with the big club next year.

Enjoy him Wolves fans, as this will be the last season you see Glass in Chicago, ever.

Vegas Golden Knights buy San Antonio

As of a few weeks ago, there were rumors and rumblings that the Wolves and Golden Knights would no longer be affiliated next season. Soon after those rumors broke, Golden Knights’ owner Bill Foley confirmed the team was searching for an AHL franchise to buy and relocate to Henderson, Nevada. The team was expected to play at the Orleans Arena where Las Vegas’s ECHL franchise once played.

News: A source told @TheAthleticNHL Bill Foley & the Golden Knights paid $10 million for the San Antonio Rampage AHL team, to relocate them to Las Vegas.

Here’s why they believe it’s worth every penny-https://t.co/clQvM8SlCJ

— Jesse Granger (@JesseGranger_) February 12, 2020

Not more than a week later, news broke that the Golden Knights bought the San Antonio Rampage, the St. Louis Blues’ current affiliate, and will relocate them after the season concludes. The purchase of the Rampage officially ends the Wolves-Golden Knights partnership after the conclusion of this 2019–20 season.

Now, the options for the Wolves are quite limited. The only realistic options are to either re-affiliate with the Blues or play a season as an independent and wait for Seattle.

However, there are reports that Seattle will be getting their own AHL franchise out west with most of the other west coast teams. With that being the case, the Wolves only real option is to realign with their former affiliate down in St. Louis.

How the Levin family will handle that possibility will be interesting. It is worth noting that the two franchise’s partnership didn’t end on great terms, as St. Louis wanted more control over the roster and coaches and the Wolves did not want to budge.

The Wolves are a proud, self-run franchise in the AHL. However, in today’s NHL, most parent teams want control of just about everything. That is the exact reason fans are seeing so many teams be bought by the parent club. So the Wolves may have to give a little in order to continue having an affiliation with an NHL club.

More to come Wolves’ fans, this team could change a bit at the trade deadline, depending on what Vegas decides to do.

Roy, Whitecloud and Schuldt re-called

As of Wednesday, the Vegas Golden Knights re-called Nicholas Roy, Zach Whitecloud and Jimmy Schuldt up to the big club.

We're expecting a sellout crowd for tomorrow's 11 a.m. game against @griffinshockey!

(But @nicroy55, @ZachWhitecloud and @Jimschuldt22 will miss out cuz they've just been recalled by @GoldenKnights.)#WeAreTheWolves

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) February 19, 2020

There was a lot of speculation in the Twitter world, including myself, thinking that another move could possibly happen. The Golden Knights acquired defenseman Alec Martinez from the Los Angeles Kings on Wednesday, so seeing two defensemen being re-called was quite a surprise.

However, Jesse Granger, Vegas beat writer for The Athletic, had the answer:

McCrimmon said the call-ups of Roy, Whitecloud and Schuldt were salary cap related.

I believe this means the team has indeed put Alex Tuch on LTIR, because the only way to benefit from adding salary is prior to that move (closer to the cap ceiling, the more relief you get).

— Jesse Granger (@JesseGranger_) February 19, 2020

Seems that today’s moves are strictly for cap reasons. Would not be much of a surprise if as soon as Tuch is back, one or both of the defensemen return to the Wolves.

Until next time, see you at the Wolves Den.

The post From the Wolves Den: Catching up with your Chicago Wolves appeared first on The Rink.

The Blackhawks wasted no time getting things going. As fans were settling in their seats, and admittedly, writers for settling into their favorite chair with an ice-cold beverage, Jonathan Toews put the visitors out front early with a beautiful snipe from the left-wing side of the ice.

16th goal of the season for Mr. Toews pic.twitter.com/ARKVLX4BrY

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 16, 2020

Slater Koekkoek’s pass squeaked through the pinching defenseman for Calgary and found Toews in stride with plenty of room to spare.

Despite the hot start for the Hawks, it did not take long for Calgary to respond. About two minutes after Toews’s tally, Sam Bennett tipped home a pass in the blue paint from Dillon Dube to knot the game up. Bennett was able to hide and get to Robin Lehner’s backside for the tip.

Looch Dubs Benny = pic.twitter.com/ll8YBxQHJd

— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 16, 2020

As the period neared its mid-point, the Hawks’ top line went back to work. As Patrick Kane went down low, he dished the puck to Toews, who found Dominik Kubalik from behind the Calgary net to give the visitors the lead once again. Kubalik was able to find space in the low slot and capitalize on the Toews feed.

Kubalik gets an assist from Kaner & Toews to put the 'Hawks back up pic.twitter.com/qQvruJw1Ls

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 16, 2020

The Flames refused to go away. Sam Bennett once again tallied for the Flames to tie the game once again. This time, a slick Dube pass sprung Bennett on a breakaway and he beat Lehner to his blocker side.

A smooth finish. pic.twitter.com/1BwmEp5j9R

— Calgary Flames (@NHLFlames) February 16, 2020

As the game moved into the second period, the Blackhawks were primed for an onslaught. Four minutes into the middle frame, Brandon Saad tallied on a nice set up from Kane to restore the Blackhawks’ lead. Saad found space and beat David Rittich five-hole to finish on his 18^th of the season.

THE SAADFATHER RETURNS pic.twitter.com/1O4klHxCEW

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 16, 2020

Just over a minute later, an unlikely name tallied to force the lead to two goals. A cross-ice pass for Calgary was intercepted in their defensive zone by Alex Nylander. He walked in on Rittich and made one move to beat the goalie for the fourth tally of the night. Nylander showed that skill that made him the eighth overall draft pick years ago.

The Blackhawks apply some pressure with their fourth goal (via Alex Nylander) of the night against the Calgary Flames pic.twitter.com/eZMwQXOMGT

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 16, 2020

The Flames threatened after Elias Lindholm scored on a big shot from the mid-slot. However, two late period tallies would open the game up for the Blackhawks.

With just over two minutes remaining in the period, the “third line” went to work in the Calgary zone. Kirby Dach and Dylan Strome were both working beneath the goal line, ultimately stealing the puck from the Calgary defense. Strome gained possession and found his friend Alex DeBrincat who finished for his 14^th of the season. “The Cat” has had a tough season, so seeing him put the frozen biscuit in the net was a pretty sight for Hawks fans everywhere.

The gets it done for the 'Hawks 5th goal of the evening pic.twitter.com/lisWiizTK1

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 16, 2020

On the next shift, the fourth line went to work in the offensive zone as well. Matthew Highmore found the puck below the goal line and hit Alex Nylander with a sweet pass in the slot and the Swede beat Cam Talbot, as he took over for Rittich, to extend the Blackhawks’ lead.

GOALS SO FAST THEY'LL MAKE YOUR HEAD SPIN pic.twitter.com/QMpOvvWG5M

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 16, 2020

Elias Lindholm threatened once again, tallying his 27^th goal of the season on the power play. However, Patrick Kane finished on an empty-net goal just two and a half minutes later to seemingly put the game out of reach. However, with a minute to play, Kirby Dach took the puck all the way up ice and, after being denied on his first shot, finished on a slick little backhand to add the eighth goal of the night and the win for the Blackhawks.

Kirby Dach makes it 8-4 #Blackhawks because why not. pic.twitter.com/yF2i6qIdv3

— Brandon Cain (@brandonmcain) February 16, 2020

Along the boards

There was a lot to be pleased about in Saturday night’s game. Although it feels like this was a day late and a dollar short, the win shows this team has players with potential.

Kirby Dach has had really nice chemistry with Alex DeBrincat and Dylan Strome. They’ve played together at times this season and had a lot of success when they do. Maybe it’s worth keeping this group together on the so-called third line and see what happens.

Alex Nylander was a pleasant surprise on Saturday. Sadly, the young Swede has not been able to find any consistency with his offensive game. He has had flashes, like this two-goal performance against the Flames, but struggles to consistently be a threat. If Nylander can ever truly put it together, he would become a solid contributor for this team, maybe becoming a 20-goal scorer. However, that remains to be seen.

Toews and Kane both had three points on Saturday, which is always encouraging. When the stars are playing well, good things happen. Even The-Rink’s very own Mario Tirabassi knows the formula.

That’s all they need to do to make the playoffs then…#Blackhawks https://t.co/MQlBO6PllX

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) February 16, 2020

However, it seems like it may be too late for this team. Now, with the trade deadline rapidly approaching, moves should be made by Stan Bowman to improve this team for the future. Trading players like Erik Gustafsson, possibly Corey Crawford, and, if the right deal came along, Brandon Saad to set up the team going forward. Although I believe Saad can be an answer in the future for this team, he would be the most appealing piece that teams will look at.

There is a lot of possibilities over the next 12 days or so. Blackhawks fans… be sure to keep your ears to the ground and keep up with The-Rink for any news and updates.

The Blackhawks return to action on Sunday night in Winnipeg, where they started this Canadian trip. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST at Bell MTS Place.

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks extinguish Flames in Calgary, 8–4 appeared first on The Rink.

Notably, Adam Boqvist did not dress for the game. Although he was able to practice late in the week after leaving Wednesday’s game early, Head Coach Jeremy Colliton decided to sit the young Swede and allow newly claimed Nick Seeler to make his Blackhawks debut.

The Hawks came out strong to start. After three days off, it was expected they would look well-rested and play hard in the opening period.

Not only did they come out strong, but the Blackhawks also didn’t waste any time finding the back of the net either. Just 15 seconds into the game, after a missed shot, Jonathan Toews found Drake Caggiula who had an excellent look at the net. After being denied, Caggiula slid the puck back to Dominik Kubalik in the slot and he fired home his 22^nd goal of the season.

Did someone order a good start?

This one took just 15 seconds pic.twitter.com/Mtxv4mOVM1

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 10, 2020

Not only did the goal give the Hawks the 1–0 lead early, Toews also recorded his 800^th career point in his hometown of Winnipeg.

O CAPTAIN!

With an assist on Kubalik's tally, Jonathan Toews has recorded his 800th @NHL point! #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/wDohGxbQQH

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 10, 2020

#1 #800 for Jonathan Toews pic.twitter.com/oERc9cGq15

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 10, 2020

The Captain continues to add to his Hall of Fame worthy career with his 800^th point. He is now the fourth player from the 2006 draft class to record 800 points.

Jonathan Toews is the fourth member of the 2006 draft class to reach 800 career points, joining Nicklas Backstrom (915), Phil Kessel (855) and Claude Giroux (800). #Blackhawks

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) February 10, 2020

The Blackhawks continued to push and played a strong first period. Winnipeg definitely looked like a team who played the day before. Although the Hawks had some great chances, Connor Hellebuyck made some great saves to keep the visitors from extending their lead.

Despite the great goaltending of Hellebuyck, the second line for the Hawks capitalized on an opportunity. Nick Seeler fired a shot toward the net, which completely missed the cage. The puck bounced off the boards behind the net and right to Patrick Kane who was waiting on the right wing red line. Kane made a quick move and dished the puck to the front of the net where the red hot Brandon Saad tipped home his 16^th of the year.

Welcome to the @NHLBlackhawks, Nick Seeler!

The newest member of the squad gets an assist in his first game, on Brandon Saad's goal pic.twitter.com/z26mr5Sjx6

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 10, 2020

Corey Crawford was also excellent. He made two massive saves in the second half of the period to deny the Jets from getting on the board. The first was a great save on Scheifele in the slot and the other was a robbery on Nikolaj Ehlers, who could only look to the heavens after missing on his back-door opportunity.

CROW. MY. GOSH pic.twitter.com/CSSNIYRXIB

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 10, 2020

As the middle frame opened, the momentum did a full 180. The Jets came out as a team with a purpose in the second period, looking to catch up with the visitors.

Although the Blackhawks were on a power play, the Jets got the better of the man advantage situation. Shorthanded, Andrew Copp made a sensational saucer pass to Kyle Connor who effortlessly lifted the shot over Crawford. Connor’s 27^th of the year cut the Hawks’ lead to just one.

Jets get on the board in the 2nd. pic.twitter.com/LgLAdXtSiu

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 10, 2020

The rest of the period was much of the same. The Jets had multiple short-handed opportunities against the Hawks, but Crawford continued to bail out his teammates in front of him. The Hawks looked lackadaisical and were badly outplayed by the Jets. However, they somehow managed to escape the period without any additional damage and held on to the lead.

The third period unfortunately spelled doom for the Blackhawks. The Jets scored four unanswered goals in the third period, two being empty netters, to knock off the Hawks 5–2.

The key to the collapse was a lack of pace. The Hawks couldn’t do anything after their sensational first ten minutes. They could not do anything to outplay the Jets and the Jets took full advantage of the Hawks tonight.

Along the boards

The Hawks looked brutal for the last 50 minutes of the game. They had no urgency, no pace, and no energy. If the Hawks continue to play that way, the “p” word is not going to be in the Hawks’ future at this pace.

This season has been concerning for Alex DeBrincat. It was fair to expect a bit of a slide, as Toews and Kane are both on pace for lower numbers than last season, but still will have good numbers. Saad is on pace for over 20 goals and Kubalik may get to 50 points. The largest drop off is Alex DeBrincat. Just see the following:

Some #Blackhawks numbers coming at you……

Alex Debrincat is on pace for a 20 point slide from last season.

From 41-35-76 to 19-37-56

— Puckin Hostile (@PuckinHostile.bsky.social) (@PuckinHostile) January 30, 2020

That is a large drop-off for a player who just was rewarded a 3 year, $6.4 million AAV deal at the start of the year. A big pickup for the team’s offense would be to get more production out of their young winger.

I continue to be pleasantly surprised by Kirby Dach’s play. He has had a good season, although the offensive numbers aren’t where most would like them to be for a third overall pick. However, guys take time to develop and Dach is developing very nicely. If he continues to develop and get stronger, he’ll be a very good forward for a long time in the NHL.

I’m so excited to see Dach once he starts adding muscle to that huge frame. He’s already solid defensively and shows the offensive flash, just wait until he can start bullying people. #Blackhawks

— Ron Luce (@LuceOnTap) February 10, 2020

One fun note, Seeler was fun to watch tonight. His fight was his highlight of the night, but he played a decent game in his debut.

We like this kid. pic.twitter.com/W8p5qv3Lgm

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 10, 2020

The Blackhawks return to play on Tuesday, February 11 as they take on Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers in Edmonton. Puck drop is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. CST.

The post Along the boards: Jets soar, comeback to defeat Blackhawks 5–2 appeared first on The Rink.

Recaps

Friday night was a tough matchup for the Wolves. Recently, the Wolves have matched up very well with the league’s best Milwaukee Admirals, so welcoming them into town on a week’s rest was critical for the in hope of gaining two points.

Friday’s game was not what the Wolves were hoping for. After being down 2–0 early in the contest, the Wolves ultimately dropped Friday’s game 7–3. The Wolves were able to bridge the gap in the second period when the score was 5–3, but the Admirals were just too much for the home team and captured the victory at Allstate Arena.

Some pluses from the game included goals scored by Tye McGinn, Brandon Pirri and Lucas Elvenes as well as two assists from Keegan Kolesar.

Brandon Pirri scored one of the Wolves’ three goals on Friday night in their 7–3 loss to the Milwaukee Admirals. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Wolves)

However, aside from the loss, Kolesar left the game with what appeared to be a knee injury. It did not look good either, as Kolesar was seen sitting in the Allstate Arena’s upper level for Saturday’s game with a large brace on his right knee.

Saturday’s game was a chance for redemption for the Wolves. Without Kolesar, the Wolves were still in a great position to win as they welcomed the lowly Moose to town for Saturday night AHL action.

The first period was nothing much to discuss, as neither team could crack the opponent’s goaltender. One scary moment for Oscar Dansk was when he missed an innocent floating shot in on net that rang the post.

However, the middle frame proved to be the deciding period for the Wolves. McGinn tipped in a Nicholas Hague shot, and Gabe Quinney and Elvenes each scored backdoor power play goals for the Wolves.

Nicholas Hague registered one assist on Saturday night against Manitoba. However, he may have been the Wolves’ most explosive offensive player in the contest. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Wolves)

The Wolves would let the Moose back in it; with about three minutes remaining the score was 3­–2 Wolves. However, the Wolves scored two empty net goals and won 5–2.

The Wolves will travel to Winnipeg, Manitoba, to play the Moose for two games on Thursday and Friday. These two games are critical for the Wolves if they want to keep pace with the rest of the contending teams in the division.

No Golden Knights next year

Jesse Granger of The Athletic tweeted on Saturday night that the Golden Knights were, in fact, cutting ties with the Wolves after the 2019–20 season. He also shared his in-depth article about the likely separation:

Chicago Wolves chairman Don Levin sees “no scenario at all” where Wolves are affiliated with the Golden Knights next season.

Story by @BrianSandalow– https://t.co/1DMmSAQugu

My story on VGK bringing the AHL to Las Vegas- https://t.co/ZaqwrpiNQe

— Jesse Granger (@JesseGranger_) February 2, 2020

Wolves owner Don Levin confirmed the organization would not be moving to Las Vegas, therefore severing ties with Vegas.

The long story short is the Golden Knights want their AHL team to play at the Orleans Hotel and Casino arena, which hosted the city’s ECHL team, the Las Vegas Wranglers, from 2003–2014. This short distance gives the team benefits of calling up and sending players down in the same city. Per the rules of the league, if a player is assigned to the AHL, they must report for that practice. Players such as Nicholas Roy and Hague are sent up and down multiple times in order for the Golden Knights to comply with the salary cap. So, every time that happens, they have to report for practice in Chicago, then fly back to Las Vegas or wherever the Golden Knights are playing when recalled.

The benefits of placing a team in Henderson, Nevada, which is about 16 miles southeast of Las Vegas, allows players to take a short drive between stadiums in the event of a call-up or send-down situation.

The questions presented by such a move include “who will the Wolves align with next season?” and “which AHL team is going to be bought and relocated?”. These two questions likely are going to be answered in a single swoop. What does that mean, you ask? Well, whichever AHL team that isn’t currently owned by their NHL affiliate will likely be an option for the Vegas Golden Knights to buy and relocate. Once that occurs, that will open the avenues for the Wolves to affiliate with whichever NHL franchise is without an AHL club.

There have been rumblings that the Rockford IceHogs, the Chicago Blackhawks’ AHL affiliate, could be bought and relocated to Henderson, Nevada. If that were to happen, it would be the first time the two Chicago franchises aligned in affiliation. Geographically, it would make plenty of sense. However, the bad blood between Wayne Messmer, a partial owner with the Wolves, and Bill Wirtz would have to be put aside for that to happen. They should be able to move on now that Rocky Wirtz owns the team, but the Blackhawks have a lot of control over the IceHogs, which they may not have if affiliating with the Wolves.

There are numerous possibilities that could happen with the Wolves’ affiliation and we will soon find out who they will be aligned with in the future.

Honoring Kobe

Defenseman Jaycob Megna honored the late Kobe Bryant by wearing a Bryant No. 24 jersey in warmups before the Wolves went on to beat the Moose. Megna, who wears the number, thought it was a great way to pay tribute to an icon who impacted people well beyond the sport of basketball.

https://twitter.com/Chicago_Wolves/status/1223839268285579264

An awesome tribute by Megna to a legend and that jersey will definitely help fund a great cause in honor of Kobe and Gigi Bryant, as well as John, Keri and Alyssa Altobelli, Sarah and Payton Chester, Christina Mauser and Ara Zobayan, who all lost their lives in the tragic accident over a week ago.

That is all for now. Until next time, see you at the Wolves Den.

The post From the Wolves Den: Wolves split weekend, other news for week of Feb. 1 appeared first on The Rink.

Game recaps

The Wolves were in Cedar Park, Texas for two games against the Texas Stars on Friday and Saturday. The Wolves ultimately split the two-game set with the Stars, who are only one point back of third place after the weekend series.

On Friday, the Stars were the team to strike first. At the 7:13 mark of the first period, the Stars executed some excellent passing, ultimately resulting in defenseman Gavin Bayreuther ripping a slap shot through traffic and into the back of the net.

Despite the early momentum for the Stars, the Wolves answered. After having an excellent set of breakaway chances in the Wolves shutout loss to the IceHogs, Brandon Pirri capitalized on his breakaway chance Friday night. For a team who seems to live and die by the stretch pass, defenseman Jake Bischoff connected on a long stretch pass from the defensive slot to tie the game. Pirri’s marker came with just 23 seconds remaining in the middle frame.

This is what it looks like when you have a HOT #WeAreTheWolves#CHIvsTEX pic.twitter.com/iOA1wWCvre

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 25, 2020

In the third period, the Wolves took the lead and never let up. At 2:30 in the third, Nicholas Roy found himself with the puck as the Wolves’ power play expired. Roy teed defenseman Jimmy Schuldt for a one-timer and he did not miss. Schuldt beat Jake Oettinger to give the visitors the 2–1 lead.

Gaze upon the absolute bullet from @Jimschuldt22 that gave us the 2-1 lead early in the third. #WeAreTheWolves#CHIvsTEX pic.twitter.com/dlaoGfzmMc

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 25, 2020

Oscar Dansk was a huge part of the Wolves’ success on Friday. Stopping 19 of 20 shots, Dansk continues to put together an excellent campaign for the third-place Wolves.

Unfortunately, Saturday’s game wasn’t as favorable for the visitors. Although the Wolves outshot the Stars 37–19 for the evening, the home team got the best of goaltender Garett Sparks.

The Wolves drew first blood, scoring on the power play. Nicholas Roy finished a nice pass from Keegan Kolesar in the slot to give Chicago the 1–0 lead. However, just over two minutes later, the Stars answered on a goal from Chicago native and former Rockford IceHog Anthony Louis to tie the contest at 1–1.

Our first goal of the night was quite a beauty

Thanks to @NicRoy55 #WeAreTheWolves#CHIvsTEX pic.twitter.com/52o4UVhVd6

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 26, 2020

Not long after, 24 seconds later to be precise, a Wolves turnover in their own zone led to Brad McClure giving the Stars a 2–1 lead, deflating the Wolves after capturing the game’s first goal.

At 12:30 in the first period, Roy set up Kolesar this time and the Wolves managed to tie the game at 2–2. However, the Stars found some magic. At the 15:49 and 17:16 marks of the first, former IceHogs Tanner Kero and Anthony Louis tallied, respectively, giving the Stars a comfortable two-goal cushion before the first intermission.

.@kkolesar28 flipping flapjacks over here in Texas…

Enjoy the second beauty of the night. #WeAreTheWolves#CHIvsTEX pic.twitter.com/8vAsLVbIiX

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 26, 2020

The Wolves made things interesting when Jake Leschyshyn scored from just outside the crease at 6:03 in the third on a nice play by Curtis McKenzie, but it would not be enough. Just after a Stars’ power play concluded, Jason Robertson found himself wide open and was set up perfectly by Michael Mersch to extend the Texas lead to two goals once again.

Third goal this evening.
Third goal of the season for @JakeLeschyshyn7. #WeAreTheWolves#CHIvsTEX pic.twitter.com/oLAIkJf2dw

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 26, 2020

Garett Sparks did not look great in Saturday’s contest, allowing five goals on only 19 shots. However, the rest of his stats from this year were actually better than Oscar Dansk’s at one point. Now, Dansk has passed Sparks in both goals against average and save percentage.

The Wolves restart regular season play on Friday at Allstate Arena as they welcome the Milwaukee Admirals back to town. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CST. The Wolves will also be home on Saturday, February 1 when they play the Manitoba Moose at 7:00 p.m. CST.

All-Star break

AHL All Star festivities started on Sunday evening in Ontario, California with the AHL skills competition. The competition saw Zdeno Chara’s hardest shot record be snapped by Ontario forward Martin Frk, who registered a 109.2 mph slap shot. The Western Conference took the skills challenge by a score of 18–15. Lucas Elvenes, the Wolves’ lone All-Star representative, participated in the puck control relay, the pass and score and the breakaway relay. Elvenes was paired with former Wolves T.J. Tynan and Kasimir Kaskisuo for the pass and score competition.

On Monday, the AHL hosted the actual All-Star game. A six-game round robin tournament kicked off at 7:00 p.m. CST and made for entertaining hockey. The Central Division team found themselves in the final at the end of the night, where they ultimately lost to the Atlantic Divison, 3–1. Elvenes scored two goals and added two assists in the four games throughout the night.

Proud of our young rook, @Elvenes25! Tonight he played in four mini-games and earned 2 goals & 2 assists. #AHLAllStar #WeAreTheWolves#Elvis pic.twitter.com/DiBHNvvIbz

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 28, 2020

Another special moment from Monday’s All-Star game happened in the early afternoon. Long-time Wolves forward Darren Haydar was inducted into the AHL Hall of Fame on Monday afternoon. The forward played five seasons with the Wolves and in 780 career AHL games tallied 788 points.

You're very kind, @dhaydar20, but it was our honor.

Hall of Fame player.
Hall of Fame person.
Hall of Fame family.#WeAreTheWolves#AHLAllStar pic.twitter.com/9TDmsrsNql

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 27, 2020

Speculations

There has been some notable news streaming through the Twitter-sphere over the past few days. The Vegas Golden Knights, the Wolves current NHL affiliate, is looking to buy an AHL franchise and relocate them to Las Vegas.

Vegas will have an AHL affiliate in Sin City. Big move here for the Knights. https://t.co/f6cVJSKt2h

— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) January 28, 2020

This idea doesn’t come as much of a surprise. Many NHL clubs are now purchasing their AHL clubs in order to ensure they control how the organization is run, as well as cutting down distance between the two clubs in the event of call-ups.

Currently, Chicago to Las Vegas is a decent distance for a player to make when being called up from the AHL. The Chicago Blackhawks and Colorado Avalanche both have their AHL affiliates within reasonable distance of their parent clubs. You can get coverage on the Rockford IceHogs and Colorado Eagles from our very own Mario Tirabassi and Marie Sexton, respectively.

The reports have indicated that the Wolves refuse to move. If that’s the case, another AHL team will be bought by the Vegas Golden Knights, or an ECHL club could be purchased and promoted, if the Golden Knights so choose.

An interesting theory was posed by SinBin Fuel, and friend Evan Miller, about what could happen in this situation.

RFD and CHI are within very close proximity, so it would make sense for Rockford to move if Chicago doesn't want to.

— FPH Fuel (@FPHFuel) January 28, 2020

You could also refer back to my RFD vs IND attendance talking point earlier, as it seems that they are both pretty similar. This is all theoretical, though. Just basing it off that Indy does support a AAA baseball team, a USL soccer team, and an NFL and NBA team.

— FPH Fuel (@FPHFuel) January 28, 2020

It’s certainly an interesting situation. Would the Wolves finally affiliate with the Blackhawks? That idea is a bit doubtful. Would the Indy Fuel move up to the AHL? Who knows what could happen in this situation. However, there are many possible situations that could indeed shake up the AHL in a bit of an unforeseen way.

An idea that could be interesting is the birth of a Las Vegas AHL team via purchase and relocation of an ECHL team. I think there is a decent chance the Golden Knights purchase a lower club and move them rather than purchase an already existing AHL club. This would set up perfectly for the Wolves to affiliate with the NHL Seattle franchise that is set to begin play in 2021. The Wolves would likely have to survive one season as an independent team but could then align with the NHL’s newest franchise.

The flaw with that idea is the same as the current situation with the Golden Knights, distance. Early on it would be a good partnership, but there is little doubt that the NHL Seattle ownership would want the minor league club to be closer than the four hour flight from Chicago to Seattle.

Nonetheless, it presents an interesting question that the Wolves’ ownership will have to monitor as Vegas begins their search to purchase a franchise for their AHL affiliation.

All for now. Until then, see you at the Wolves Den.

The post From the Wolves Den: Busy Wolves weekend and news appeared first on The Rink.

Wolves silence the Admirals

The Wolves powered through their game on Saturday night, capturing a massive win over the Milwaukee Admirals, who just days before, beat the Wolves in a shootout. The win allowed the Wolves to inch closer to second place behind the Iowa Wild in the Central Division standings.

After going toe to toe with the Admirals on Wednesday, the Wolves took advantage of some home cooking and beat the Admirals at Allstate Arena. The Wolves jumped out to an early lead and made sure they hung on to it. About two and a half minutes into the game, Gage Quinney struck with his ninth goal of the year and gave the Wolves the early 1–0 lead.

After the Wolves’ first goal on Saturday, teddy bears were tossed onto the ice to be donated to charity. Photo: Chicago Wolves

There was no more scoring in the first, but the Wolves added in the second with a Jake Bischoff tally. Just two minutes and forty seconds into the middle frame, the Wolves found themselves with a two-goal lead.

With roughly six minutes having bled off the clock, the Wolves found themselves up four goals thanks to Gage Quinney’s second and third tallies of the game. The second goal and hat trick tally came just 45 seconds apart.

With 12:46 left on the clock, the Admirals finally found the back of the net. Eeli Tolvanen scored to put the Admirals on the board and ultimately ruin Oscar Dansk’s chance at a shutout. Despite the disappointment of losing the shutout, Dansk was excellent, and the Wolves captured a coveted 4–1 victory over a very good Admirals team.

IceHogs blank the Wolves

Riding high after a massive win on Saturday, the Wolves welcomed the Rockford IceHogs to the Allstate Arena and hoped to take both games over the weekend.

The first period was full of action but lacked scoring. The IceHogs had a number of solid opportunities on the power play, but Sparks and the Wolves’ penalty kill were able to nullify any momentum. The best chance for the Wolves came via a Brandon Pirri crossbar. Pirri nearly went bar down on Collin Delia but he couldn’t beat the goalie’s best friend.

The IceHogs wasted no time however in the middle frame. Just 29 seconds into the period, a puck found its way through Garrett Sparks and into the blue paint. Tyler Sikura was there to tap home the puck and give the visitors the 1–0 lead.

The second period did not yield much for the Wolves. Brandon Pirri had a few solid chances once again, but the rest of the team was kept in check by the IceHogs’ team defense. Late in the period, Gage Quinney took a monster hit from Dmitry Osipov and was slow to get up. He made it back to the bench under his own power but was visibly in pain.

Not too soon after the Quinney injury, the IceHogs struck to double their lead. Gabriel Gagne scored his first goal as a member of the IceHogs and gave the visitors the additional cushion. The goal was the first chance from the slot that beat Sparks all afternoon.

Despite the outcome Sunday, Garett Sparks was excellent. Photo: Chicago Wolves

The Wolves attempted a comeback. The home team found themselves controlling play as they were heading into the final period. However, it was all for not as Collin Delia made a few major saves and captured the shutout against their cross-state rival.

One notable frustration during Sunday’s game was the Wolves’ reliance on the stretch pass. Every quality chance during the first two and a half periods came via the stretch pass. They only hit on about 10% of the passes they tried, and the best opportunity was denied by the crossbar on Pirri’s earlier bid.

Aside from the Pirri line, the best line for the Wolves on Sunday was the fourth line, comprised of Paul Cotter, Jermaine Loewen, and Cam Maclise. They were forechecking machines all game and Loewen had a solid bout with Nick Moutrey early in the game. They brought great energy when it seemed like other lines were flat. Was it easy to overlook Rockford after defeating the mighty Admrials the night before? Possibly. However, the Wolves missed a golden opportunity to get two critical wins to help their position in the standings.

Weekly Preview

The Wolves are off until Friday, January 24 when they will travel to Texas to play the Stars for a two-game set. Games are both scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CST on Friday and Saturday. The Stars are currently tied with the IceHogs for fourth place in the Central Division by points but have a game in hand. Every divisional game is key for the Wolves from here on out but creating some more distance between the Wolves and the rest of the pack is important as the schedule quickly approaches February.

In the meantime, the Wolves are doing some pretty cool things in the community. On Tuesday, January 21, ten Wolves players are heading to Lurie’s Children’s Hospital downtown to visit with the kids and brighten their days.

Our guys can't wait to get out to see people all over the Chicago area Tuesday.

There's a visit to Ronald McDonald House. A Read To Succeed appearance. Three youth hockey practices.

All of this and more in this week's Wolves Insider: https://t.co/So316FioPg#WeAreTheWolves pic.twitter.com/DC1N3jKEUu

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 21, 2020

Pretty cool for the kids and players to spend some time together and interact on a cold Tuesday in January.

Until next time, enjoy your week. We’ll see you at the Wolves’ den.

The post From the Wolves Den: Wolves split home weekend appeared first on The Rink.

Almost 13 years ago, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews scored their first NHL points… tonight, we are on milestone watch at the UC.

Don't miss history, stream the game here: https://t.co/Zc3qSCNWMk pic.twitter.com/FBvwyMbgcf

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 19, 2020

Another storyline was the return of Robin Lehner. After Corey Crawford took the net for the games against Montreal and Toronto, Lehner returned on Sunday night to relieve Crawford and give the veteran a breather.

The Blackhawks didn’t waste any time in the first period, taking an early lead in the game’s first three minutes. However, rather than Dominik Kubalik, Jonathan Toews, or Patrick Kane scoring the opening goal, it was an unexpected character. Alex Nylander scored on the backhand after a perfect pass from Erik Gustafsson set him up all alone in front of the Winnipeg net.

Nylander with the backhanded beauty for the lead!

A lot on the line tonight at the UC. Stream it here: https://t.co/4cEWuOIdH5 pic.twitter.com/wo2LfRpaZw

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 20, 2020

The period wore on with the Blackhawks hanging onto their one goal lead before the fourth line once again got back to work. Matthew Highmore dug a puck out behind the Jets’ net and moved it over to Alex Nylander. The young Swede found Gustafsson at the point. Gustafsson took one quick sidestep and fired a seeing eye shot that went top shelf and gave the Hawks a 2–0 lead.

Gus with the fake out and the SNIPE! pic.twitter.com/m9VPJcicx8

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 20, 2020

The game progressed late into the second period with the Hawks still holding on to their two-goal lead. A Luca Sbisa shot took a funny bounce off of Nikolaj Ehlers’ stick. The puck made its way on net and was stopped initially by Lehner. However, the rebound trickled into an area where Mark Scheifele was able to put the rebound in the back of the net and cut the Hawks’ lead to just one.

The 2–1 score held until roughly the mid-way point of the third period. A sensational rush by Kirby Dach generated a grade-A scoring chance for the Hawks. Dach’s initial bid was stopped, but David Kampf followed up and was able to tuck the puck into the net to extend the Hawks’ lead back to two goals.

David Kampf with an impressive follow up to make it 3-1. Dach snaps a 12 game point drought with the assist.

Stream: https://t.co/4cEWuOIdH5 pic.twitter.com/9MifSJjjc9

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 20, 2020

After that, about five minutes later, magic happened.

Patrick Kane becomes the youngest American-born player to reach 1,000 points #PK1K pic.twitter.com/Tc1h0WgX5R

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 20, 2020

Patrick Kane picked up his 1,000^th career point in his NHL career on a secondary assist. Brandon Saad tucked home the pass from Kane to Carpenter for his 13^th of the season and be a part of the special moment for #88.

1K(ane) Points for Showtime! pic.twitter.com/XXXtJbQr0T

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 20, 2020

Not too long after, the Winnipeg Jets made it interesting as Patrik Laine tallied his 16^th goal of the year to give the Jets some life. However, after the Jets tallied to make it a two-goal game, Kubalik was able to add the empty net goal and officially seal the deal as the Blackhawks downed the Jets at home, 5–2.

Along the boards

Tonight’s along the boards is an easy one. Patrick Kane. What an outstanding night for Patrick Kane. Tallying his 1,000^th point at home certainly had to be special. Kane mentioned that his family was unable to make it in to witness the moment live, but they’ll likely be in on Tuesday as there will almost 100% be a special ceremony for the milestone.

Although his family was unable to attend tonight’s game, they were with Kane on Friday night as his #88 was retired by the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Kane only played one season with the Knights, but he led all of juniors in points that season and rose his draft stock to be the #1 overall pick by the Blackhawks.

Kane’s number will eventually be retired by the Blackhawks as well. He was the fourth ever Blackhawk to record 1,000 career points, the 7^th active player to do so, the 10^th American of all time to reach the milestone and is the 55^th player of 90 all time to reach 1,000 to do so before playing in his 1,000^th game. What Kane has done in his career that is still very far from over is truly remarkable. He has cemented himself as possibly the greatest American born player to ever play the game.

We here at The-Rink wish Patrick Kane congratulations for recording 1,000 points in the NHL. We can’t wait for the pursuit to the next 1,000.

The Blackhawks return to action at home on Tuesday when they welcome back Joel Quenneville and the Florida Panthers for their one appearance at the United Center this year.

The post Along the boards: Hawks ground Jets, Kane is Mr. 1,000 appeared first on The Rink.

Recap: Wolves lose at Milwaukee

Wednesday’s game was quite a test for the Wolves. The Wolves rolled into Panther Arena riding high, winning three straight games after losing their first two contest of the new year. The Admirals were more than ready for the task, entering Wednesday’s game as the best team in the AHL with 60 points.

Despite any possible intimidation from the Admirals, the Wolves struck early on Wednesday. The first-ever Vegas Golden Knights player, Reid Duke, ripped a wrist shot over Connor Ingram’s shoulder to give the visitors the early 1-0 lead.

The Admirals were resilient. At the 8:36 mark of the first period, Mathieu Olivier tied the game after a Steve Santini shot was blocked in front and the carom found Olivier in open space. Olivier capitalized on his chance and the Admirals were in business.

Wolves forward Valentin Zykov looked to get in front of Admirals goalie Connor Ingram on Wednesday in order to create an opportunity for the Wolves. Photo: Milwaukee Admirals

The Wolves found success scoring early in the period on Wednesday. Just as they did in the first period, the Wolves scored in the first minute of play in the middle frame. 57 seconds into the period, Lucas Elvenes tallied his eighth goal of the campaign on the power play. Curtis McKenzie’s pass to Brandon Pirri created the initial bid that Ingram stopped, but Elvenes was able to bury the rebound and give the visitors the lead once again.

Everyone loves old friends, until they come back and ruin your party. At the 10:40 mark of the middle frame, former Chicago Wolves forward Daniel Carr tied the game to knot the score at 2–2. Carr was last season’s AHL Most Valuable Player while with the Wolves.

Both the third period and overtime did not yield any additional scoring for the two teams. Wednesday’s contest required a shootout to determine who received the second point.

Both goalies were excellent all game. Oscar Dansk made 22 saves on 24 shots and Milwaukee’s Connor Ingram recorded 28 saves on 30 Wolves’ shots. That pattern continued into the shootout as only one shooter for either team tallied. Milwaukee’s Rem Pitlick scored on the first shot for either team of the shootout and that was all it took for the Admirals to capture their 28^th win of the season.

It is encouraging that the Wolves hung in with the league’s best team. Not only did they force extra time, they took the game as deep as they could but were unfortunately unable to tally a goal in the shootout. The key for the Wolves will be to translate that energy from Wednesday into this weekend’s two contests as they host the Admirals and rival Rockford on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.

Weekend preview

After the disappointing loss on Wednesday, the Wolves will enjoy some home cooking this weekend, hosting two central division rivals at Allstate Arena.

On Saturday, the Milwaukee Admirals come to town for some Saturday night hockey in Rosemont. The Wolves will look to enact revenge on the Admirals after giving them an incredible fight on Wednesday in their own building. This time, the Wolves will have the home ice advantage and behind a strong Saturday night crowd at Allstate Arena, the Wolves will look to capture a critical two points. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CST.

On Sunday, the Wolves welcome the Chicago Blackhawks’ AHL affiliate, the Rockford IceHogs, to town for a Sunday matinee. Every game within the division is important, especially when the IceHogs are looking up at the Wolves in the standings. Two points for Rockford keeps them within striking distance of the third place slot and a win for the Wolves would mean another step toward catching the second-place Iowa Wild. Puck drop is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. CST.

The key for the Wolves all season has been their excellent goaltending. Despite his record, Chicago-native Garrett Sparks has been sensational this year, posting a 2.55 goals against average and a .915 save percentage. Dansk’s record better reflects his performance. Along with his 13 wins, Dansk has posted a 2.59 goals against average and a .908 save percentage. Assuming each goalie sees action this weekend, they will be critical in any Wolves’ success.

This Saturday is the Wolves’ annual Teddy Bear Toss game. If you are attending the game Saturday, be sure to bring a stuffed animal and chuck it onto the ice when the Wolves score their first goal.

Our Teddy Bear Toss is this Saturday, presented by @abcphce!

Join us as we take on the @mkeadmirals and bring new or gently used stuffed animals to toss on the ice during first intermission to support @ff_chicago.

Be there: https://t.co/T0sNd2kTvH pic.twitter.com/zuW8Jxmq0N

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 17, 2020

Both games this weekend will be televised on My 50 Chicago. Tune in to see the Wolves take on two division rivals as the standings start to take shape in preparation for the AHL Playoffs. Better yet, the Wolves can be viewed in person for some good family fun this weekend in Rosemont.

Ahead of Saturday’s contest, the Wolves re-called forward Jermaine Loewen from loan to the Fort Wayne Comets and signed Cam Maclise to a PTO contract.

We have recalled Jermaine Loewen from loan to @FWKomets and signed @Camo150 to a PTO in preparation for this weekend's home games against @mkeadmirals and @goicehogs. https://t.co/xtsiunGtr4#WeAreTheWolves pic.twitter.com/quwKt3OfMw

— Chicago Wolves (@Chicago_Wolves) January 17, 2020

More after the weekend. Until then, see you at the Wolves Den.

The post From the Wolves Den: Weekly recap and weekend preview appeared first on The Rink.

The good news entering today’s action was the return of the Panda himself, Robin Lehner. After a three game absence, Lehner returned looking to right the Hawks’ ship after the loss to the Preds. 

It seemed early on that the Hawks were still feeling the effects of Thursday’s game. Early in the first, the Ducks drew first blood. Just over three minutes into the period, Max Jones potted his fifth goal of the season to put the visitors up 1–0. 

https://twitter.com/AnaheimDucks/status/1216174983384199169

However, Chicago responded. Roughly five minutes after the Ducks took the lead, the Hawks had a two-on-one, led by Jonathan Toews. Toews elected to keep the puck and fired the puck past John Gibson to tie the game. 

The reason we call him "The Captain"?

BECAUSE HE SETS THE TONE pic.twitter.com/0iEFZ6G4YL

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 12, 2020

The top line looked sensational for the Hawks early on. The fourth line also looked great. Those lines brought great energy and scoring chances, setting the tone heading into the first intermission. 

The Blackhawks came out with intensity to begin the second period. After head coach Jeremy Colliton switched the lines up, the new top unit of Patrick Kane, Toews and Dominik Kubalik dominated puck possession. Just over four minutes in, Toews set up Kane for a backhand chance, however, the puck trickled off of John Gibson and into an open area in front of the net. Kubalik crashed the net and put home the rebound to give the home team the 2–1 advantage. 

Dominik Kubalik scores for fourth straight game and registers his 13th even-strength goal of the season. No other rookie has more than 7. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/HdeZsZZxHK

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) January 12, 2020

Kubalik has been sensational since joining Toews on the top line. His tally in this game was the 15th of the season for the rookie and his fourth in four straight games. Extending his sensational stretch, the Czech winger wasn’t done yet. Connor Murphy blasted a shot from the point that Kubalik hammered home on the rebound for his second goal of the game and 16th of the season.

The rook doing some dirty work to light the lamp

"The Kubalik Game?!' pic.twitter.com/z8xIErJSWI

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 12, 2020

After their strong second period, the Hawks would unfortunately be beaten on an excellent passing play for the Ducks. Max Comtois, Isac Lundestrom and Rickard Rakell teamed up for what was a beautiful tic-tac-toe passing play and gave the Ducks hope, making the score 3–2. 

Tic tac Rak pic.twitter.com/7RtUQjnxhK

— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) January 12, 2020

However, the Hawks struck back. After entering the offensive zone, Alex DeBrincat pulled up and found an oncoming Olli Maatta at the point. Without wasting any time, Maatta wired a slap shot to the top corner and beat Gibson to restore the Blackhawks’ two-goal lead. 

Third goal of the season for Olli Maatta. Big blast from the point. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/TXgTGVw9qm

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) January 12, 2020

Despite some chances for each team throughout the third period, neither team could capitalize. In the final minute and change of play, Dominik Kubalik nearly capitalized on a hat trick goal. Although he missed the hat trick, Kubalik was still the first star of the game as the Blackhawks ended the home stand with a 4–2 win over the Ducks. 

Along the boards

#PayTheMan #PayRobin https://t.co/FT2RloMQop pic.twitter.com/jGBaHNymy7

— Puckin Hostile (@PuckinHostile.bsky.social) (@PuckinHostile) January 12, 2020

Robin Lehner was once again sensational in his return from injury. After Crawford manned the net for three games, the “Panda” returned to backstop the Hawks to a win against an awful Ducks team. Despite their record, the Ducks gave the Hawks a run and Lehner made numerous unbelievable saves to keep the home team out in front. A few days ago, Lehner was asked if he would take a discount to stay in Chicago. He said, in summary, that he has taken discounts his whole career and wants to be paid his worth. He added that he doesn’t want to be overpaid, but he certainly doesn’t want to be underpaid. There is one simple solution to this for the Blackhawks: give Lehner a contract, tell him to write the term and dollars, say “ok,” and have him sign it. If this organization wants any chance of competing in a few years, they need a good goaltender and Lehner fits the bill. #PayRobin.

And just like that, Dominik Kubalik has tied Victor Olofsson for the rookie scoring lead, with 16 goals.

What a bright spot he's been in this dreary Hawks season. 3-1 lead over the Ducks now.

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) January 12, 2020

The Czech rookie was also great tonight. It seems that Kubalik and Toews have found some chemistry together. Ever since Kubalik was promoted to play with Jonathan Toews, he has found a new scoring touch and been a consistent offensive weapon night in and night out. If Kubalik keeps this pace up, he will make a strong argument for the Calder trophy as rookie of the year. If he does not win the award, he should at least be a finalist. Here’s another guy who will need to be paid next summer as well. 

Holy Olli, what a blast from Maatta at the point. #Blackhawks

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) January 12, 2020

Holy Olli indeed, and how could you not love this tweet? It was refreshing seeing Olli Maatta jump into the play and score against the Ducks. Maatta’s presence will be critical for the rest of the season with injuries to Calvin de Haan and Brent Seabrook. Although the Hawks will likely miss the playoffs, Maatta is a young defenseman with a ton of experience and can be an asset to some of the younger guys such as Dennis Gilbert and Adam Boqvist. It seems like Maatta isn’t the only defenseman jumping in on offense, but it is especially refreshing when it’s guys like Maatta and Murphy, given their reputations as defense-first guys. 

The Blackhawks return to action on Tuesday night in Canada’s capital as they take on the Ottawa Senators. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CST. 

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks clip Ducks’ wings, win 4–2 appeared first on The Rink.

However, the holidays went too quickly. The Brent Seabrook/Calvin de Haan/Brandon Saad news on Thursday put a bit of a damper on Friday’s contest. The lines made the feeling no better:

#Blackhawks lineup vs. Islanders:
Kubalik-Toews-Quenneville
DeBrincat-Dach-Strome
Nylander-Carpenter-Kane
Smith-Kampf-Highmore

Keith-Gustafsson
Koekkoek-Murphy
Maatta-Gilbert

Lehner
Crawford

*Sikura and Boqvist (shoulder) and are the scratches.

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) December 28, 2019

Adam Boqvist was also sitting out Friday’s tilt, so Slater Koekkoek drew in for the young Swede. Robin Lehner also took the net against his former team.

Plenty of love for Lehner on the Island. Islanders fans lined up to show love for their former goaltender on Friday night. Photo: Bill Smith/NHLI via Getty Images

Despite how it looked before the game, the Hawks came out as the better team, pressuring the Islanders up and down the ice.

Although the visitors opened the game’s scoring, the home team was the dominant team in the opening frame. Three first period goals from Dennis Gilbert, Dominik Kubalik and Alex DeBrincat gave the Hawks a two goal cushion at the end of the opening frame.

Gilbert’s first career goal was a product of great cycling by the Strome line. Gilbert found himself in the low slot when Dylan Strome found him for the home team’s first goal.

That is career goal #1 for Dennis Gilbert!

He ties this game up 1-1 midway through the 1st: https://t.co/qdFbPJSbTJ pic.twitter.com/xxsbF1gy74

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 28, 2019

Kubalik’s marker was an impressive play between Kubalik and Kane, who was the first member of the Carpenter line on the ice during a change. Kubalik gave the puck to Kane, who quickly returned the puck to the Czech winger for a one-time opportunity. Although he didn’t get everything on it, Kubalik’s changeup found the twine behind Thomas Greiss.

And just like that… the #Blackhawks lead 2-1! pic.twitter.com/lUSqVtbLyu

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 28, 2019

DeBrincat’s tally was the “prettiest” of the opening period goals. Strome once again set up his favorite teammate for an excellent opportunity in the high slot. DeBrincat wired a perfect shot, top shelf, to beat Greiss and ultimately chase him from the game.

The Cat keeps em' coming!

This is fun: https://t.co/qdFbPJSbTJ pic.twitter.com/8t1vfQSUwE

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 28, 2019

The Dach-Strome-DeBrincat line was the best line in the first period. Although the Toews line was solid in the opening frame, the Strome line consistently dominated puck possession. They were continually able to cycle the puck and provided two of the three goals in the first. 

Despite the quiet middle frame for both teams, the third period yielded some excitement. In the first minute of the final frame, Jonathan Toews scored to give the Hawks a three goal lead. Not too long after, Matthew Highmore scored his first of the season to extend the Hawks’ lead to four goals. 

Toews looked like his classic self on the opening tally in the third period. While skating down the right wing boards, Toews slightly changed his angle on Seymon Varlamov and beat him over the goalie’s right pad. 

The Captain doing it all himself! #Blackhawks take a 4-1 lead in the 3rd: https://t.co/qdFbPJSbTJ pic.twitter.com/seymMuNetC

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 28, 2019

Highmore made the “smart play” and threw the puck toward the net from the corner with Zack Smith out in front. The puck bounced off an Islanders defender and found the back of the net. Smith knew it right away, as he pointed at Highmore when the puck trickled into the net behind Varlamov.

Highmore of that please, Matthew!

Watch the rest of tonight's matchup live on the #MyTeams App: https://t.co/mfQ1ZBC5v2 pic.twitter.com/Is3Y3Kyj48

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 28, 2019

Although the Islanders scored late, it didn’t matter as the Hawks captured the 5–2 win over the Islanders. 

Along the boards

The kid shines

One of the best players on the ice in this game, based on the eye test, was Dennis Gilbert. He was all over the ice, making his presence felt in the physical game, as well as blocking shots. He was excellent, even gaining a little high five and pat on the butt from Robin Lehner after arguably Gilbert’s most important block of the game.

Dennis Gilbert is out there making plays tonight pic.twitter.com/VEGCkhI56d

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 28, 2019

WHAT. A. BLOCK by Gilbert!!!

— Ron Luce (@LuceOnTap) December 28, 2019

Watching Gilbert step up was refreshing. With all the injuries this Blackhawks team is facing right now, seeing Gilbert be able to play a big role is a positive sign for this team going forward. Perhaps in the future Gilbert cements himself as a bottom pairing defenseman who can kill penalties. That type of defenseman will be critical down the road when the offensive minded Adam Boqvist and Ian Mitchell are roaming the ice.

All hail King Lehner

Another day, another sensational performance from the Hawks’ net-minder. He has continually been the best player for the Blackhawks all season and, if every team had an MVP award for the first half of the season, Lehner would take the cake. Against his former team, who let him walk in favor of Semyon Varlamov, Lehner stepped up and ensured the Blackhawks beat the organization that Lehner helped lead to the playoffs last season. Lehner admitted in his always colorful interviews that he respected the guys on the other side of the ice, but enjoyed beating his former team.

Our @NickGismondi talked with @RobinLehner after being recognized as the 1st for his awesome 38-save performance pic.twitter.com/y4GQGEZxsN

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 28, 2019

The big deadline for the Blackhawks is the turn of the new year. Once we ring in 2020 in about five days, the Blackhawks can extend Robin Lehner. The Blackhawks’ new year’s resolution should be to establish a long-term plan in net, and they can do just that by extending Lehner in about a week. Be smart Stan, do something right and extend Lehner.

Captain Dach?

Kirby Dach had a very nice game playing alongside Dylan Strome and Alex DeBrincat on what was tabbed the “third line” on Friday night. Playing the wing allowed Dach to play a little more freely, and it benefitted the young center, despite not registering a point on the score sheet.

One notable play Dach made was on the Gilbert goal. He was able to take the puck behind the net, and dish to Duncan Keith at the point. Keith then set up Strome for the pass to Gilbert. The play was impressive because it looked so effortless. He did a lot of little things right; crashed the net on transition plays, led transitions into the offensive zone, and helped orchestrate the second power play unit.

On top of all those things, he had the presence of mind to pick up Gilbert’s puck after he scored his first career goal, which is the second time he’s done that this season (see Boqvist’s first goal). Maybe he’s the next captain?

Make him Captain https://t.co/f3ufCL2l42

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) December 28, 2019

The Blackhawks return to action on Sunday for a late afternoon matchup with the Columbus Blue Jackets in Columbus, Ohio. Puck drop is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. CST.

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks strike early and often, down Islanders 5–2 appeared first on The Rink.

The first period looked similar to what most fans likely anticipated against the Avalanche. The Avs were clearly the better team out of the gate in the opening frame. The home team dominated all over the ice, and made the Hawks look like the inferior team.

Six minutes into the game, the Avs took advantage of a change at the tail end of their own power play. Ryan Graves jumped onto the ice and found the puck on his stick. He was able to capitalize on the feed and give the Avs a 1–0 lead. 

Ryan Graves goes BANG.#GoAvsGo https://t.co/8btLUzaOsu

— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 22, 2019

The puck was smoked by Graves as he came off the bench.

Aside from the goal, there was no further damage done and the Hawks were still in the game, despite being badly outplayed. However, the second period began in a much different fashion. At the 21-second mark of the period, Jonathan Toews perfectly read a pass by the Avalanche defenders and caused a turnover in their zone. Patrick Kane found the puck and returned the puck to the captain to finish off the bid and tie the game.

A familiar duo strikes again for the 'Hawks

Stream the action here: https://t.co/UrY8RXjFur pic.twitter.com/X7GGIaEY2h

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 22, 2019

Unfortunately, the fun wouldn’t last too long. After a Robin Lehner save, Matt Calvert saw the puck laying behind Lehner in the crease, and poked the puck into the back of the net. Although Lehner argued he had the puck, the replay showed that the puck was indeed loose. 

Sneaky little goal from Matt Calvert.#GoAvsGo https://t.co/J5PW1Fs0e8

— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 22, 2019

Despite the goal, the Blackhawks were by far the better team in the second period. They were hitting, flying around, and getting plenty of shots on net. It was easily one of their better periods of hockey all season long. 

Notable hits included Duncan Keith’s ruthless hip check on Joonas Donskoi and Dennis Gilbert’s flattening of Gabriel Landeskog. Gilbert’s hit resulted in a retaliation hit later and ultimately a scrap for the young defenseman. 

Gabriel Landeskog takes exception to an earlier hit and fights Dennis Gilbert pic.twitter.com/oNnfJwBsZo

— Brady Trettenero (@BradyTrett) December 22, 2019

After a great period from the Blackhawks, Matt Calvert once again found a lucky bounce off of Robin Lehner. This time, it was Lehner’s own pads that Calvert took advantage of. After an excellent save by Lehner, he found himself outside of the paint with his pads facing slightly toward the net. Calvert hit his pads perfectly and banked the shot in off of Lehner.

CALVY CALLED BANK#GoAvsGo https://t.co/BzW7hHtNrJ

— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) December 22, 2019

The Blackhawks were stuck down two going into the third after one of their best periods of hockey. 

As the third period ran on, the Blackhawks were struggling with the altitude. Although still holding their own, the ice tipped again toward the Avalanche. Despite the speed of the Avalanche, the Blackhawks were the first time to capitalize in the final frame.

After the Blackhawks entered the zone, Toews dished the puck to Kane at the blue line. Kane skated across the ice, into the left slot and ripped a shot past Philipp Grubauer to cut the Avs’ lead to just one. 

Kaner nets his 20th goal of the season pic.twitter.com/2yHTkCsWrR

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 22, 2019

It was an excellent play by Erik Gustafsson to crash the net and possibly screen the goalie on the shot. 

The next shift provided a lot of excitement as well. A series of passes from Adam Boqvist and Gustafsson set up Kirby Dach for his sixth goal of the season. Dach used his long reach to corral a tough pass and somehow get a good enough shot on net to beat Grubauer. The passing was a beautiful tic-tac-toe and wild finish from the rookie.

Word on the street is….this Dach kid is only 18 years old pic.twitter.com/Iu5YuthDDJ

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 22, 2019

After the tying goal, the Blackhawks went to the power play as well. The momentum in the game completely flipped in Chicago’s favor, and there was no denying that the Hawks came to play in the final period. 

In continuing fashion, the Blackhawks looked to put this game away. With just over three minutes remaining, Dennis Gilbert kept a puck in the zone that nearly left and found Toews down low. Toews’ initial shot missed, but he was able to get the puck back and circle behind the Colorado net. As he did, he missed Kane crashing the net, but found Dominik Kubalik in the slot and the rookie scored his tenth goal of the season to give the visitors the lead. 

Dominik Kubalik gives the 'Hawks the lead with his 10th goal of the year pic.twitter.com/V9IuQdhlW4

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 22, 2019

The Avs would not go away, pulling the goalie with well over two minutes remaining. Credit the Blackhawks however; they were able to fight off the push, and Connor Murphy, from his own end line, buried the empty net goal to seal the win in Denver. 

Around the Boards

Duncan Keith is playing “pissed off” and I AM HERE FOR IT. What a hip check.

— Ron Luce (@LuceOnTap) December 22, 2019

Duncan Keith played a really nice game for the Blackhawks. Sure he’s not the old self that he used to be, but he was still the Blackhawks best defenseman for most of the night. From the excellent defensive play on Nathan MacKinnon early in the game, to the monster hip check in the second period, Duncan Keith was noticeable and certainly playing pissed off. An excellent night from the vet and it’s refreshing seeing Keith lead by example after his comments the last time these two teams played. 

This has been one of Kirby Dach's best games of the season. pic.twitter.com/nmmrKs0IG1

— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) December 22, 2019

It was nice to see Dach finally get on the board after 16 games without a goal. If nothing else, he found a spark of confidence especially with the goal that he scored on. Assistant coach Tomas Mitell said he thought Dach was playing one of his best games of the season. It’s hard not to agree with Mitell: Dach looked much more confident in this game than he had in the last ten games before this one. He was making plays, aggressive in front of the net, and very noticeable, unlike recent games. A great game for the kid and a huge win for the Hawks.

#Blackhawks had a 3% chance of winning at midway mark of third period, per @MoneyPuckdotcom.

Impressive comeback road victory and they did it in regulation. pic.twitter.com/K7PPkORf4O

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) December 22, 2019

Wow, what a game. After dominating the second period, the Blackhawks were still down two goals entering the third frame. Going into the third period, per Charlie Roumeliotis, the Avalanche were undefeated when leading after two periods this season and the Blackhawks were winless when down after two periods. Well, the Blackhawks flipped the script on that stat and took this game by the horns, mounting the comeback of the season for this team. Quick goals to get the tie certainly helped, but the Blackhawks never let their foot off the gas and were able to steal a big game in Colorado against the Avs. A big kudos to the Blackhawks for not giving up in this one, because they easily could have after being down two goals going into the third period.

The Blackhawks return to the United Center on Monday to play the lowly New Jersey Devils before the Christmas break. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST.

The post Along the Boards: Blackhawks rally to beat the Avalanche 5–3 appeared first on The Rink.

The contest did not start pretty for the Blackhawks. By the end of the opening frame, the Blackhawks were down 3–0 with tallies from Michael Grabner, Clayton Keller, and Brad Richardson.

Grabner’s tally was an excellent display of speed, he dipped his shoulder and released a backhand shot that had eyes, finding it’s way past Robin Lehner’s blocker side. Keller’s was a result of a defensive breakdown, as he had a semi-breakaway after an excellent pass from Jordan Oesterle. The third goal was a result of excellent net-front presence from Richardson, as he was able to tip a nice Jacob Chychrun shot through Lehner’s five hole.

There was hope in the second, as the captain, Jonathan Toews, tallied his seventh goal of the season to cut the Coyotes’ lead down to just two. The goal was a result of a well-placed shot from Dominik Kubalik that resulted in a perfect rebound for Toews to hammer home.

Finders keepers#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/bTzxEOuQfU

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 13, 2019

However, the lead would be extended for the hometown team, this time by a familiar face. After a Coyotes’ face-off win, Nick Schmaltz walked to the slot and sniped a shot over Lehner’s left shoulder to give Arizona the 4–1 lead. 

The Blackhawks opened the scoring in the third period, however, it was too late. With right around seven minutes remaining, Dylan Strome tapped home an Alex DeBrincat shot to cut back into Arizona’s lead. The power play tally was Strome’s seventh of the season. 

Dylly Dylly!

Strome strikes on the power play. #CHIvsARI pic.twitter.com/F8L9pLcKPS

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 13, 2019

With two minutes remaining, the Coyotes added insult to injury. After a puck was dumped in, Christian Dvorak, the Chicagoland native, retrieved the puck behind Lehner. Erik Gustafsson was caught down low, leaving Keller wide open in the slot and he tucked a roof shot past Lehner to give the Coyotes the three-goal lead and the final score, 5–2. 

Three points

The Hawks looked terrible: There is no nice way to say it. The Hawks were badly outplayed. They just have not looked good recently. This team, earlier in the season, showed moments of brilliance. Now, this team is relying on Robin Lehner and Corey Crawford to keep them in games. They’ve done a great job doing that, but it hasn’t been enough to yield wins.

Injuries suck: You can tell that the Blackhawks miss Duncan Keith and Calvin de Haan. I’d even argue they miss the likes of Andrew Shaw. They need good players. In years’ past, circa 2015, this team had the depth to accommodate injuries. Now, this team is S.O.L without one or two players in the lineup. Did someone say tank?

Give me the top three: What does this mean? Well, it means if you’re going to change the franchise for the better, you need top 3 picks in the draft. Although no guarantees, these players are what it takes to change a franchise. I think Kirby Dach is a part of the long-term solution, as is Adam Boqvist, but the Hawks need a continuing influx of talent in order to fill the holes. With big contracts against their cap, that’s the only way to improve, young, cheap talent. 

The Blackhawks return to action on Saturday, paying a visit to the defending Stanley Cup champions. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CST.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks fall on their face, lose to Coyotes 5–2 appeared first on The Rink.

News broke on Friday that both Duncan Keith and Andrew Shaw were sent to the IR, retroactively. What does that mean? It means that Keith could technically return any day now, and Shaw can return after Friday’s game. It ultimately frees a roster spot if they can make the cap situation work.

With the aforementioned injuries, the Blackhawks trotted out the following lines against the Devils.

Saad – Toews – Nylander

DeBrincat – Strome – Kane

Kubalik – Kampf – Wedin

Smith – Dach – Carpenter

Koekkoek – Murphy

de Haan – Seabrook

Gilbert – Gustafsson

Crawford

First period

The opening frame as a whole was a quiet one. Neither team was truly able to get too much working in their favor early on. 

The first action occurred with about 13 minutes remaining in the period. Dennis Gilbert, playing his second game in a row due to Olli Maatta’s illness, laid a big hit on prized rookie and first overall pick Jack Hughes. The hit sparked Wayne Simmonds to respond, as he and Gilbert squared off. 

Dennis Gilbert lays a big hit on Jack Hughes then scraps with Wayne Simmonds. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/yDRdsvDZ9g

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) December 7, 2019

The biggest mistake of the first period for the Hawks was a lack of discipline. With just over seven minutes remaining, Zack Smith was called for an elbowing penalty against Nikita Gusev. 

On the powerplay, the Devils cycled the puck around the point and circles in the offensive zone. After Sami Vatanen passed the puck to Gusev on the left circle, he returned the puck to Vatanen at the point. Vatanen delivered the exact same pass, this time to Taylor Hall on the opposite circle and the former MVP fired a wicked shot past Crawford to give the Devils the lead. 

https://twitter.com/NJDevils/status/1203111446151872512

The most notable chance of the period for the visitors was a Kirby Dach grade-A chance that he simply missed on. It’s safe to say he knew it too, given his reaction on the play, as he looked to the sky in disbelief. 

The Devils took their 1-0 lead into the first intermission at home. The Devils outshot the Blackhawks 10-7 in the opening frame.

Second period

The second period began in a similar fashion to the first. There were not a ton of scoring opportunities for either side, but a few decent missed chances were exchanged. 

However, fortunes changed for the visitors. A Sami Vatanen hooking penalty on Patrick Kane sent the Blackhawks to a much needed powerplay. 

On the powerplay, the Blackhawks generated a grade-A chance after Dylan Strome found Patrick Kane. Kane’s bid was initially stopped, but the puck was still free. The rebound bounced to the left wing side of the ice and Alex DeBrincat, for the second game in a row, buried the rebound to tie the game.

We'll take it!#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/RxZXBVDdrC

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 7, 2019

The last great chance of the period came on a Devils breakaway. However, Crawford made a huge save and kept the game tied as the game entered the second intermission. 

Third period

The third period was fast, but quiet. Both teams had some chances, as the Hawks had a power play, but could not capitalize on the chance. The Devils had some chances as well, but neither team could crack the other’s goaltender. 

Neither team could convert on their chances and the third period ended the way it began, with both teams tied at one after 60 minutes of play. 

Overtime

Talk about chances. The Hawks had numerous chances, as did the Devils. Both goalies stood tall as their teams needed and kept the other team from capitalizing in the 3-on-3 overtime period. 

However, the game would require a shootout as neither team could convert.

Shootout

In the shootout, the first four shooters scored. Kane and Toews both scored for the Blackhawks and Nikita Gusev and Jesper Boqvist scores for the Devils.

After that, the goalies stood tall and sent the shootout to sudden death.

In the fifth round, the Blackhawks sent Kirby Dach to shoot. Dach converted on his first ever NHL shootout attempt and put the Hawks up 3-2.

This Kirby Dach (@kdach77) fellow is good at hockey. pic.twitter.com/5DC2fQLez6

— NHL (@NHL) December 7, 2019

On the other side, number one pick Jack Hughes took the 5th attempt for the Devils, but was denied by Corey Crawford, sealing the win for the Blackhawks. The Hawks won in the shootout 2-1.

Quick hits

• 250 for Crow: Friday’s game marked the 250th career victory for Corey Crawford in the NHL. Given the number of goaltenders to accomplish that in NHL history, dare I say it could be a topic of discussion for Corey Crawford to be a hall of famer. 
• The youngster: Kirby Dach converted on his first ever NHL shootout attempt. It makes a lot of sense that Dach would be successful given his skillset. He has great hands, works well in tight on goaltenders, and normally scores out in front of the net. He did an excellent job to help the Blackhawks get a much needed victory in New Jersey. Also, how about the reaction from the youngster’s mom?

This is the purest gif we have ever shared on twitter dot com

Mama Dach watching her rookie win it in the shootout! #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/yjs4zNYnSH

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 7, 2019

The Blackhawks will play host to the pacific leading Arizona Coyotes on Sunday night at the United Center. Puck drop is scheduled for “one of those great six o’clock starts” as the great Eddie Olcyzk would say.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks edge Devils in the shootout, 2–1 appeared first on The Rink.

Corey Perry celebrated his 1,000th NHL game on Saturday in Dallas. The forward spent the majority of those 1,000 games in Anaheim with the Ducks but has rebounded this year with a change of scenery. 

Congratulations, Corey! #GoStars pic.twitter.com/HvrucYkL8z

— X – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) November 24, 2019

The Blackhawks rolled out their lines and the lineup looked very similar to many of their last five games. The lines were as follows:

Saad – Toews – Nylander
DeBrincat – Strome – Kane
Kubalik – Kampf – Shaw
Smith – Dach – Carpenter

Keith – Gustafsson
de Haan – Seabrook
Maatta – Murphy

Lehner

First period

The early portion of the period was a lot of back and forth between the two teams, but not a lot of quality chances were generated. The best chance of the first ten minutes came from Corey Perry. On the night of his 1,000th game, he could have put the Stars ahead early. Instead, he just flat out missed on his attempt to bury a puck with Lehner out of position.

Although Perry could not bury his chance, the Stars still struck first. Around the 14-minute mark, the Stars won a key faceoff in the Blackhawks’ zone. John Klingberg, in his first game back from injury, wired a shot through traffic that was tipped in front by Roope Hintz and ultimately found its way behind Robin Lehner. 

Roope and Klinger were skating together a lot coming back from injury.

They combine for the first goal in their first game back. #CHIvsDAL | #GoStars pic.twitter.com/EYpp3x86BG

— X – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) November 24, 2019

Although the Stars dominated the period, the Blackhawks found a way to capitalize on an A+ opportunity. On a play that started with Connor Murphy getting the puck up the boards, Patrick Kane tipped the pass further to Alex DeBrincat. “The Cat” led the charge up ice with Olli Maatta and had a two-on-one. DeBrincat and Maatta played catch, but the final move came from Maatta, getting his shot to squeak past Anton Khudobin to tie the game. The goal was the first as Blackhawk for Maatta.

Olli Määttä scores first goal of the night for the #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/fpJYpAECO1

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) November 24, 2019

Patrick Kane picked up the secondary assist, extending his point streak to 12 games. Kane has been sensational all season thus far. 

Despite how bad they played, the Blackhawks went into the first intermission tied at one. An excellent position to be in given how much the Stars dominated the first period. 

Second period

The period began with the Stars having a quality chance against Robin Lehner in the first minute. The Stars had a bit of a two-on-one. Jamie Benn, who coming into this game was riding a four-game point streak, failed to convert on the chance after the puck went off the toe of his stick.

The Blackhawks first excellent chance came via a power play in which DeBrincat was tripped by Blake Comeau to initiate the man advantage. The Blackhawks didn’t score on the power play, however, they dominated possession on the power play. They won every draw in the offensive zone, and only had to regroup once or twice before moving the puck around and getting shots on net. 

It’s safe to say if every Blackhawks power play looked that good all the time, they’d be much better statistically. 

On the other end of special teams, the Blackhawks killed off the first power play for the Stars in beautiful fashion. The Hawks killers swarmed the Stars and constantly applied pressure, leaving the Stars searching for answers as they were unable to generate any meaningful chances on their first man advantage of the evening. 

After the Hawks kill, the remaining five minutes of the period featured another Dallas Stars power play. However, seven seconds into the man advantage, Joe Pavelski was sent off for hitting David Kampf in the face. The roughing penalty resulted in four-on-four hockey for the remainder of the period. 

With ten seconds remaining, Jonathan Toews drew a penalty on Miro Heiskanen for holding. Toews had the puck for a good 20 seconds, skating circles around the Stars defenders without losing the puck. The penalty set up a four-on-three for 50 seconds. 

The teams entered the second intermission with about 48 seconds of four-on-three time remaining. The Blackhawks looked much better in the middle frame than they did in the opening frame, registering 13 shots during the period. 

Third period

The final frame began with an unsuccessful power play for the Blackhawks. Despite starting with the man advantage, they could not generate any meaningful offense. Instead, Dallas gets out of a sticky situation unharmed. 

About two and a half minutes into the period, Khudobin made the save of the game, completely doing the splits to make a save on Dominik Kubalik, who had a wide open cage. The Hawks had a few follow-up chances, but Khudobin was able to shut the door. 

Absolute ROBBERY by Dobby. #CHIvsDAL | #GoStars pic.twitter.com/UzLGBLC3rR

— X – Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) November 24, 2019

The best chance for the Stars in the period came on a power play after a David Kampf delay of game penalty. The Stars had a great sequence and nearly capitalized, but the Blackhawks penalty kill stood tall and Lehner made two excellent saves to keep the home team from taking the lead. 

With three minutes remaining, it appeared the Hawks had taken the lead in Dallas after a Dylan Strome deflection on a Maatta shot. However, the play was waved off immediately for a high stick and after review it was confirmed.

Dylan Strome's goal is disqualified due to having a high stick. #Blackhawks still tied 1-1 pic.twitter.com/SerEEw3sO2

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) November 24, 2019

The game indeed required overtime, and the Stars and Blackhawks entered overtime tied on the scoreboard and in almost every team statistic.

Overtime

The Blackhawks took possession first as Toews, Kane, and Keith took the ice first for the visitors. A Hawks turnover led to a Heiskanen breakaway, but Toews was able to break up the chance and force a turnover. 

An excellent individual effort from Patrick Kane nearly ended the game. Kane stole the puck from a Dallas defender and took off, creating a breakaway for himself. Unfortunately, Kane couldn’t capitalize. It hurt even worse because the Hawks were called for too many men on the ice after that chance. The Stars took their timeout before heading to the powerplay.

The Blackhawks killed the penalty, despite great chances by Dallas. Andrew Shaw had a semi breakaway just before time expired and looked to be tripped, instead, nothing was called and Shaw was furious. It appeared to be a penalty, but the game entered the shootout. 

Shootout

One shooter for Dallas, one goal. Joe Pavelski scored on the first shot of the overtime. Toews matched that by missing on his move to tuck the puck past Khudobin. 

The second Dallas shooter, Tyler Seguin, also scored. Both goals were five-hole on Lehner. Patrick Kane also missed on his chance and the Stars took the game in the shootout, 2–1. 

Quick hits

• Lehner looked good: Although he is not a shootout goalie, Lehner looked incredible during actual hockey play. He has continued to keep the Hawks in games and there is no denying that he may have been the best free-agent signing this past summer for any team in the league. The Stars had 15 high-danger chances in this game, 10 of them came in the first period. He only let one in. Yes ladies and gents, that’s really good. 
• Good penalty kill: The Blackhawks penalty kill looked sensational all night. The final powerplay in overtime allowed a lot of chances, but Lehner stood tall. If the kill can look like they did tonight all season, they will be in good shape going forward. 
• First one feels good: Olli Maatta scored his first goal as a Blackhawk tonight on a nice two-on-one with Alex DeBrincat. Maatta has improved every game with the Hawks and is proving to be a nice addition to this defensive group. Maatta also nearly had an assist on Strome’s high stick redirect goal. 

The Blackhawks will host this same Dallas Stars team on Tuesday, November 26 at the United Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CST.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks fall 2–1 to Stars in shootout appeared first on The Rink.

With no line changes from Saturday to Sunday, the Blackhawks trotted out the following line combinations:

Saad — Toews — Nylander

DeBrincat — Strome — Kane

Kubalik — Kampf — Shaw

Smith — Dach — Carpenter

Keith — Gustafsson

de Haan — Seabrook

Maatta — Murphy

Crawford

First period

The period began with a buzzing Blackhawks squad showing well early. In the first three minutes alone, the Blackhawks looked like they were ready to play, despite having played the night before.

The Sabres began to pick up their play as the period wore on, specifically almost capitalizing on a Crawford mistake. The Chicago netminder made a desperation save when scampering back to his net after playing a puck. Fortunately, the puck stayed out and Dominik Kubalik had a semi breakaway the other way, but he was ultimately denied by Buffalo goaltender Carter Hutton.

The best chance for the Hawks came after an Alex DeBrincat penalty. As the penalty expired, DeBrincat and Dylan Strome exchanged passes. Strome threw the puck behind the net in the offensive zone to “The Cat” and the undersized winger found Patrick Kane open in the slot. The point-blank bid was denied by Hutton, but could have easily been a goal given the nifty passing from that line.

Not too long after, the Blackhawks capitalized on their momentum following the failed Buffalo power play. A Duncan Keith outlet pass ended up on Kirby Dach’s stick as he skated to the defensive blue line. Dach set up a give-and-go with Kubalik as they passed through the neutral zone. Dach made an outstanding play on his individual effort, lowering his shoulder to shield a defender and put a backhand shot over Hutton’s shoulder for the first tally of the game and a 1–0 Chicago lead.

Kirby Dach going backhand! @NHLBlackhawks lead 1-0. Stream here: https://t.co/jQFUIagZqV pic.twitter.com/E87dXUahCk

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) November 18, 2019

Despite a late power play for the Blackhawks in the period, Chicago could not add to its lead. However, the Hawks took their 1–0 lead into the first intermission without issue after a fast first period between both teams. 

Second period

The middle frame did not lack any action, beginning in a similar fashion to that of the first period. In the first seven minutes of the period, both teams traded power play opportunities, but neither team could capitalize on their opportunity.

The majority of the period was defined by big saves from Crawford. The Hawks’ goaltender was superb, making numerous big stops on Sabre shooters. 

With about eight minutes remaining in the period, Dach nearly tallied his second goal of the game. Zach Smith tipped a puck at the blue line to open ice. Dach had a free chance from the top of the circles going in, but was denied by Hutton’s spectacular save. 

Under a minute later, Dach indeed picked up his second goal of the game. After the fourth line had a great chance before, head coach Jeremy Colliton sent that line back out there for another possession. Smith found Dach skating in and the rookie made a beautiful move to finish on the breakaway. Dach’s sneaky speed played a key on the play, as he was able to slip behind the Sabres’ defense and generate the open chance. 

Reminder that Kirby Dach is 18 years old… PRAY FOR THE LEAGUE

Stream the game here: https://t.co/eRyV0KGCum pic.twitter.com/G5bNYbnCRJ

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) November 18, 2019

To the surprise of many, Erik Gustafsson dropped the gloves with Buffalo forward Jimmy Vesey not long after Dach’s goal. One of the last people most Blackhawks fans would expect to fight put up a solid effort against Vesey.

Gloves. Off. pic.twitter.com/JVOVWpcTy5

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) November 18, 2019

Dach continued his dominance during the game by drawing a penalty. The 18-year-old skated into the offensive zone and nearly beat two Sabres defenders to get off an open shot. As he went to shoot, the Sabres took the penalty to prevent the quality chance and sent the home team to the man advantage. 

Just as the time was about to expire, Dach was called for interference on a strange play. Without a stick, Dach was skating to the bench. On his way back, he lit up Sam Reinhart, drawing the penalty.

The 2–0 lead was safe for now heading into the second intermission. Chicago continued to be outshot by the visitors, but Dach was the difference to that point. 

Third period

The Blackhawks began the third period by killing the Dach penalty with relative ease. To add to the action, the Blackhawks nearly ended the kill with a goal after Jonathan Toews was denied by Hutton on a two-on-one opportunity with Ryan Carpenter. 

Just a few minutes after the kill, the Blackhawks once again had a chance on the power play. The man advantage began with Andrew Shaw taking a face off to Hutton’s left. 

The face off resulted in a 50-50 puck that numerous players for both teams attempted to corral. In normal “Showtime” fashion, Kane used his quick hands to secure the puck, quickly turn around and rip a shot past Hutton to extend the Hawks’ lead to 3–0. The goal extended Kane’s point streak to nine games. 

9-game point streak for No. 88!#Showtime pic.twitter.com/0ewPhurG6x

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 18, 2019

Brandon Saad was denied twice on solid open chances in the period. On the second chance, Jake McCabe tied up Saad when he went to bury the chance with a backhand. To Saad’s credit, he stuck with the play and set up Toews to extend the Blackhawks’ lead to 4–0.

Toews from the slot. 4-0. #blackhawks #sabres pic.twitter.com/3lwb1dMf5J

— Buffalo Hockey Moments (@SabresPlays) November 18, 2019

The third period had quite a pace to it. Just as Gene Honda was announcing the Toews goal, Calvin de Haan turned a puck over at the Hawks’ blue line and Jack Eichel had an open chance on Crawford. Eichel was able to capitalize and beat Crawford to give cut into the Blackhawks’ advantage at 4–1. 

Jack Eichel steals the puck and gets one on the board! #Sabres50 | @Jackeichel15 pic.twitter.com/F7GOoTdHol

— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) November 18, 2019

The momentum was then in favor of the Sabres. Following the Eichel goal, Evan Rodrigues went to the net and nearly scored again, but the Sabres did draw a penalty, so they returned to the power play looking to close the scoring gap even further.

The Blackhawks controlled the Sabres on the man advantage. The Hawks generated the best chance of the Sabres’ man advantage when Saad had a breakaway from his own blue line in. Unfortunately, Saad could not get off a quality chance when trying to tuck the puck past Hutton.

The game had plenty of action for the rest of the game. In the last two minutes, Colliton threw Kane out on the ice with Dach to try and get the rookie his first career hat trick. Dach had a great backhand chance, but the shot sailed wide.

Despite the lack of a hat trick, the Blackhawks pick up their fourth consecutive win, downing the Sabres 4–1. 

Quick hits

• Someone call a Dach-tor: Kirby Dach was spectacular in this game. I am not underselling that either. He was all over the ice, using his speed, creating chances with effort and was a difference maker in this game. Dach has proven he belongs in the NHL, and, in his first season, could be a surprise that many fans did not expect as his confidence continues to grow each game.
• The Crow: Corey Crawford had another great game for the Blackhawks. The goaltending for the Hawks has been arguably the biggest strength for this team and Crawford continued that effort against the Sabres. He is 11–0 in his career against the boys from Buffalo and he and Robin Lehner put on a show over the course of the weekend back-to-back.
• This team is fun again: Not only was Connor Murphy a welcomed addition to the lineup against Nashville, but this team is beginning to play with confidence and swag. The Blackhawks are fun to watch again. There I said it. Are they perfect? No. Are they the teams of old? No. Are they fun to watch and giving fans a sense of hope for something positive in the future? Absolutely. At this point, the Blackhawks are trending toward being the hottest ticket in town once again, especially with how the Bears and Bulls are playing.

The Blackhawks will host the Carolina Hurricanes on Tuesday at the United Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks flying high, down Sabres for fourth straight victory appeared first on The Rink.

The big news with the lineup going into Saturday’s game was Kirby Dach and Adam Boqvist being healthy scratches. There was a lot of confusion from Blackhawks fans upon the news. With the two youngsters sitting, the lineup was as follows: 

Saad – Toews – Nylander

DeBrincat – Strome – Kane

Kubalik – Kampf – Shaw

Smith – Carpenter – Caggiula

Keith – Gustafsson

de Haan – Seabrook

Koekkoek – Maatta

Crawford

First period

The opening frame started with the Penguins generating numerous quality chances. However, Corey Crawford stood tall and looked great once again after a very good game against the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night. 

Crawford not only looked good in net, but he was also not taking anything nonsense from the Penguins. Just after the halfway point of the period, Alex Galchenyuk took a puck to the net and ended up making contact with Crawford. The Blackhawks’ goaltender came up swinging and words were exchanged between a number of players.

The best chance of the period may have been a Brandon Saad shot that caught the post behind Matt Murray. Outside of that, neither team was able to crack the opposing goaltender. 

The Blackhawks and Penguins entered the first intermission tied at zero. There were solid chances for both sides, but neither team could find the back of the net. The Blackhawks showed good energy in the period, but couldn’t translate that energy into results. 

Second period

The middle frame proved to be a much better period for the visitors. The Blackhawks were finally able to crack the code against Matt Murray.

Just after the seven-minute mark, Chicago had a three-on-one rush with Brandon Saad, Slater Koekkoek and Dominik Kubalik. Saad carried the puck into the zone before dropping the puck back for Koekkoek. Rather than shooting or passing the puck to Kubalik, Koekkoek returned the pass to Saad, hitting Saad in the skate. The winger kicked the puck to his stick and quickly found Kubalik on the other side of the ice for a beautiful goal. 

Tic. Tac. Toe.

Good guys jump in front. Stream: https://t.co/gnXSKgjn5h pic.twitter.com/Zthx8PCcMc

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) November 10, 2019

Not long after the opening goal, the ‘Hawks struck again. Calvin de Haan deposited the puck to Patrick Kane, who led a two-on-one into the zone with Brandon Saad. Kane held on to the puck the whole way and wired a shot under the left arm of Matt Murray, giving the Blackhawks a 2–0 lead. The goal was Kane’s sixth of the year.

Showtime extends his points streak to five games, and the #Blackhawks extend their lead to 2-0: pic.twitter.com/qk52VcEn59

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) November 10, 2019

Crawford was continually spectacular throughout the period. However, it is tough to defend a perfect chance when your defenseman turns the puck over. Slater Koekkoek turned a puck over and gave Evgeni Malkin and Jake Guentzel a two-on-one chance. Malkin found Guentzel all alone, wide open in front of Crawford and the Penguins winger buried the pass to cut the ‘Hawks’ lead in half. 

Beautiful pass. Beautiful goal. pic.twitter.com/tMbVVAhDOs

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) November 10, 2019

Fortunately, the rest of the period yielded no damage to the Blackhawks and they took their 2–1 lead into the second intermission, looking to put away the Penguins and pick up two critical points in Pittsburgh.

Third period

Although the ‘Hawks had the lead, they would ultimately lose that lead. After some good chances for both teams, the Blackhawks failed to clear a puck just after the ten-minute mark of the period. After the Penguins cycled the puck and had some looks at Crawford, defenseman John Marino threw a puck over to a wide-open Bryan Rust for a big game-tying goal. 

Bryan Rust extends his point streak to six games (5G-2A), a career high. pic.twitter.com/HaACSds4A9

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) November 10, 2019

Unfortunately, the Blackhawks could not add a third goal and the game ultimately required overtime. Both teams had numerous quality chances, but the goaltenders continued to put together great games for their respective clubs. 

The biggest news to note from the third period was the departure of Sidney Crosby. After blocking a shot in the period, Crosby then left the game and did not return. The Penguins were without their captain for the remainder of the game. 

Overtime

Overtime was very high paced for both teams. The Blackhawks had great possession during the extra frame, ultimately winning the time of possession battle. However, the Blackhawks could not generate anything and the game was forced into a shootout.

Shootout

• The Penguins’ first shooter was Jake Guentzel, who already had a goal earlier in the game. Guentzel made a sweet move on Crawford and snuck the puck through his five-hole.
• Jonathan Toews led off the shootout for the Blackhawks. Unfortunately, Toews was denied on his bid and opened the door for the Penguins.
• Evgeni Malkin shot second for the Penguins and was denied by Crawford. Crawford made an excellent save with his left toe to deny the elite center.
• Patrick Kane was the Blackhawks’ second shooter, and in typical Kane fashion, snuck the puck blocker side to knot the shootout up at one.
• Jared McCann was up the third shooter for the Penguins. McCann snapped off a wicked shot to beat Crawford blocker side and give the Pens the 2–1 shootout lead. 

Guentzel and McCann score in the shootout to lock down the two points. pic.twitter.com/Bo5Bqlf3Ev

— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) November 10, 2019

The final third Blackhawks shooter was Alex DeBrincat. DeBrincat was denied by Murray, giving the Penguins the shootout victory.

Quick hits

• Energy was good: The energy was solid for the Blackhawks on Saturday night. They played an overall solid game, despite losing a 2–0 lead in the contest. This game is certainly one with a lot of good that the team can build on, so it will be interesting to see how they respond against Toronto.
• Crow is back?: Corey Crawford was very good once again after his great performance on Thursday night. If the Blackhawks can continue to get that type of goaltending from Crawford, then the Blackhawks may have the best goaltending duo in the league with Lehner and Crawford.
• Why sit the kids?: A big question mark in this game was sitting Kirby Dach and Adam Boqvist. In a game where youth and speed could have been useful, the Blackhawks decided to sit the two young promising stars. I think Blackhawks fans, like myself, would much rather see Boqvist playing defense than Slater Koekkoek, who cost the Blackhawks a goal in this game.

The Blackhawks return home on Sunday to welcome the Toronto Maple Leafs to town. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. CST. As Eddy Olyczk would say, “One of those great six o’clock starts!”

The post RECAP: Blackhawks spoil two goal lead, lose to Penguins 3–2 in shootout appeared first on The Rink.

The DeBrincat-Strome-Kane line finally made its season debut against the Ducks. The rest of the lines were as follows: 

Saad — Toews — Nylander

DeBrincat — Strome — Kane

Kubalik — Kampf — Dach

Caggiula — Carpenter — Shaw

Keith — Boqvist

de Haan — Seabrook

Maatta — Gustafsson

Lehner

First period

The first period started in a very calm fashion. The first 10 minutes of play yielded a lot of back and forth, but did not yield any goals for either team in Anaheim. 

However, a spark of the future came into view at about the halfway point of the period. After a puck was worked deep, Jonathan Toews found the puck but could not handle it as the puck dribbled behind the Ducks’ net. Alex Nylander picked the puck up and skated out to Ryan Miller’s right side. He found Adam Boqvist at the top of the face off circle to Miller’s right and sniped a shot over the Anaheim goaltender’s shoulder for his first career NHL goal. 

.@kdach77 running to grab the puck for his buddy @BoqvistAdam is our second favorite thing about this goal. #Teammates pic.twitter.com/odXA2gouov

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 4, 2019

Boqvist’s new buddy, and possibly his future franchise pillar, Kirby Dach picked up the defenseman’s first goal puck after the tally.

In exciting fashion, the Blackhawks offense would not end there. After working their way into a five-on-three power play, the Hawks found a way to take advantage of Anaheim’s mistakes. After a puck worked its way back to Dominik Kubalik on the point, Kubalik found Patrick Kane on his right wing side of the power play. Kane took a second to set up and scan his options, but ultimately found Alex DeBrincat back door for a tap-in goal from the left winger. The goal gave the Blackhawks the 2–0 lead.

This Kaner pass >>>

My word. @NHLBlackhawks lead 2-0 on @NBCSChicago and streaming here: https://t.co/l15UbPEy2R pic.twitter.com/SbihA4pNqf

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) November 4, 2019

The Blackhawks took that lead into the first intermission with also leading in shots on goal. It was arguably one of the best periods for the Blackhawks all season.

Second period

The second period opened it much better than most middle frames have this season for Chicago. Although the Blackhawks looked better than they have in most second periods this season, they were on the other end of the scoring luck for the period. 

After more than 12 minutes of back and forth, the Ducks found a way to finally crack Robin Lehner, who had been spectacular all night long. 

After a puck was shot behind the Blackhawks’ net, Ryan Getzlaf found the puck before it could find its way around the wall and out of the zone. He passed the puck to Erik Gudbranson, who wasted no time sending a shot on net. The shot was screened in front of Lehner by Sam Steel and the Ducks cut the Hawks’ lead in half at 2–1 on the Gudbranson blast. 

https://twitter.com/AnaheimDucks/status/1191187308612993024

The Ducks’ goal was the only scoring action in the period. Anaheim found a way to outshoot the Blackhawks and make the game closer than it felt after the first period.

Third period

The early portion of the third period did not feel great for the Blackhawks. It would only get worse, especially after back-to-back Toews penalties.

After Chicago killed the first power play on the Toews penalties, they found themselves in trouble after a second penalty moments after the first one ended. 

After setting up, Cam Fowler found Steel deep on Lehner’s left side. Steel was able to hit Ritchie with a perfect pass, with Lehner diving in hopes of stopping it, and Ritchie made no mistake, finding the back of the net on his shot to even the score at 2–2. The tying goal was excellent execution from the Ducks.

https://twitter.com/AnaheimDucks/status/1191191550694264832

Later in the period, the best chance the Hawks had came on a cross ice Kane to Shaw pass. Shaw’s attempt was stopped by Miller on an excellent chance. The Blackhawks also had a great chance after a Boqvist power play shot was deflected by Kubalik, but could not beat the goal post as a power play expired. Two excellent chances for the Blackhawks ultimately went wasted.

Despite good chances from both sides, the contest would require overtime to determine a winner.

Overtime

An opening Toews face off led to immediate Chicago possession to start the opening frame. After regrouping in their own zone, Kane found Toews at the blue line with a long stretch pass. 

Toews lowered his shoulder and took the puck toward the net. Despite the good defense, Toews let up and spun around looking for an open player. Toews found Kane crashing to the net on the other side of the ice and he buried the pass to give the Blackhawks the 3–2 win in overtime against the Ducks.

Give me the puck
I'll hit the game winner #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/J6HTx8WBgw

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 4, 2019

Quick hits

• The first of many: Adam Boqvist scored his first career NHL goal in the win against the Ducks. Boqvist showed off the offensive prowess that led to him being selected in the top 10 back in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. His first goal was not at all cheap, and, after scoring, his buddy Kirby Dach grabbed the puck for him.
• Lehner to the rescue: Not only did Robin Lehner carry the team on his back, but he also picked up his 100th career victory in the NHL. Lehner will without a doubt continue to increase that career total given how he has played. If he is extended by the Blackhawks, fans could see Lehner pick up his 200th win in a Blackhawks uniform.
• The stars come through: Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews came through in the clutch in overtime, ending the game on the first possession of extra time. Not only did they combine for the game-winning goal, but they also each picked up an additional point during the game. Hawks fans should be encouraged if Kane and Toews are having multi-point outings on a regular basis because, more often than not, that will translate to victories.

The Blackhawks continue their California swing in San Jose on Tuesday night against the struggling Sharks. Puck drop is scheduled for 9 p.m. CST.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks clip Ducks’ wings, win in overtime 3–2 appeared first on The Rink.

The only major change to the line combinations was the insertion of Slater Koekkoek for Connor Murphy on defense. 

DeBrincat — Toews — Caggiula

Shaw — Strome — Kane

Saad — Kampf — Kubalik

Smith — Carpenter — Nylander

Keith — de Haan

Maatta — Seabrook

Koekkoek — Gustafsson

Lehner

First period

The first period started off pretty well for the home team. The Blackhawks were flying around early, and two excellent scoring chances for Dominik Kubalik and Andrew Shaw came via cross-ice passes from Brandon Saad and Jonathan Toews. 

Just over six minutes into the period, it appeared the Flyers took the early lead after an excellent tip from Kevin Hayes, who beat Robin Lehner five hole. However, excellent eyes from the Chicago video coaches spotted Hayes offsides before the puck entered the zone. After official review, the goal was deemed no good and the score remained deadlocked at 0–0.

Unfortunately not long after the no goal, the Blackhawks were caught in a bad situation after a pinch by Duncan Keith. The puck was poked ahead by Travis Konecny and created a two-on-one. The play could have easily been a free breakaway for the two Flyers’ forwards if not for Calvin de Haan’s hustle. Once de Haan committed to Konecny, Konecny found Oskar Lindblom wide open and he put the puck top shelf to give the Flyers the 1–0 lead.

Top cheese and no review necessary. #PHIvsCHI | #FlyOrDie pic.twitter.com/DFcGTdO0fK

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) October 25, 2019

Late in the period, the Toews line had arguably the best passing sequence this team has had all season, but unfortunately an Alex DeBrincat one-timer from the slot was denied by Brian Elliott. 

The Blackhawks entered the first intermission down 1–0 to the Flyers despite outshooting the Flyers 7–5 in the opening frame.

Second period

The beginning of the middle frame did not start well for the Blackhawks. Not even a minute in, Travis Sanhiem setup Claude Giroux in front of Lehner and the elite goal scorer quickly put the Flyers up 2–0 early on a redirect.

G breaks through. #PHIvsCHI | #FlyOrDie pic.twitter.com/IO1aJhk7i5

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) October 25, 2019

The best chance for the Blackhawks in the early portion of the period was generated by the Kampf line, which has undoubtedly been the best line of the season. Kubalik charged up the ice and found Saad crashing the net. Unfortunately, Saad’s shot went wide and the opportunity was wasted. 

The Blackhawks’ power play was certainly still a huge problem during the second period. The Blackhawks could not get anything going with the man advantage, allowing the Flyers to hang on to their two-goal lead.

Chicago entered the second intermission only registering one shot on net the entire period. The Blackhawks offense reverted to their ways the fans witnessed in the first few games this season. The Flyers completely dominated the period and left the Blackhawks in a bad spot entering the third period.

Third period

The third period began surprisingly well for the Blackhawks. The team had tons of momentum coming out of the intermission and finally found a sense of urgency. That exact energy led to the Blackhawks being rewarded.

Just a minute into the period, Andrew Shaw was on the left wing and received the puck after Kirby Dach won a board battle at center ice. Shaw found an open Saad at the blue line for an excellent opportunity. Saad was in all alone against Elliott and, with a nifty backhand-forehand move, Saad found the back of the net to cut the Flyers’ lead in half at 2–1.

Kneel before Saad! @NHLBlackhawks are on the board! #AuthenticFan pic.twitter.com/TxEKDT8fvd

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) October 25, 2019

However, the Flyers responded. Four minutes later, Hayes found himself on a breakaway after beating Brent Seabrook up ice. Hayes buried the puck behind Lehner and once again gave the Flyers a two-goal lead at 3–1. The play was a tough break for the Blackhawks as they looked to regain momentum.

RARE TONIGHT: A Philly goal that *wasn’t* overturned. #PHIvsCHI | #FlyOrDie pic.twitter.com/4Vaau0cYIk

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) October 25, 2019

Two minutes later, it appeared that Joel Farabee registered the first goal of his young career. However, the Blackhawks challenged again. For the second time in this game, Hayes was offside on a potential goal for the Flyers. The lead remained at two for the visitors.

The Blackhawks finally found some momentum and were controlling play for most of the period. However, with just over three minutes remaining, Erik Gustafsson turned the puck over in the defensive zone and it ended up on the stick of James Van Riemsdyk. Van Riemsdyk found himself on a breakaway and completely fooled Lehner with a nifty move to give the Flyers the 4–1 lead late in the third.

He’s back. #PHIvsCHI | #FlyOrDie pic.twitter.com/ioYJRQQEEt

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) October 25, 2019

The Blackhawks were unable to generate anything else the remainder of the period, and ultimately fell to the Flyers by a 4–1 final. 

Quick hits

• Where is the energy? The Blackhawks simply did not show up in the first two periods. They look lazy, tired and pathetic. Eight shots on goal through two periods is not a recipe for winning hockey games in the NHL. They finally showed up in the third period, but it was too late.
• Saadfather: Brandon Saad continues to look like one of the best players night in and night out. He is playing with that same energy and relentlessness that made a deadly force before being traded to Columbus. Now in his third season since returning from Columbus, he is finally starting to look like his old self. He could be on pace for a career year if his play remains at this level. It also does not hurt that the only goal of the night came via Saad and it was a beauty.
• Missing the Murph: It is interesting to say, but the Blackhawks miss Connor Murphy on the back end. John Dietz tweeted the Blackhawks’ goals against average with and without Murphy. It is 4.4 to 2.2, respectively. That is a big difference and it especially helps that he and Duncan Keith had become a formidable top pair. Now, the depth is not as strong with Calvin de Haan playing on the top pairing.

The Blackhawks will fly to Raleigh, North Carolina, to face the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday. The game will be the first of back-to-back games for the Blackhawks. Puck drop is scheduled for 12 p.m. CDT.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks refuse to show up, lose to Flyers 4–1 appeared first on The Rink.

Dave Bolland standing with the Blackhawks starters while being honored for his One More Shift. (Photo by Chase Agnello-Dean/NHLI via Getty Images)

Prior to Friday’s game, the Blackhawks honored two-time Stanley Cup Champion and former Chicago Blackhawks forward Dave Bolland for his One More Shift. Bolland received a warm welcome from the home town faithful at the United Center.

A loud and well-deserved ovation for the return of Coyotes legend Dave Bolland. pic.twitter.com/0LogK0XTKc

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) October 19, 2019

The famous saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” was in order for head coach Jeremy Colliton ahead of the game. The only lineup change made was at goalie, as Robin Lehner was starting in goal:

DeBrincat – Toews – Caggiula

Shaw – Strome – Kane

Saad – Kampf – Kubalik

Smith – Carpenter – Nylander

Keith – Murphy

Maatta – Seabrook

de Haan – Gustafsson

Lehner

First period

After everyone settled into their seats, the third line did what they have done best throughout this young season: be a force to be reckoned with. Roughly fourty seconds into the period, Brandon Saad and Dominik Kubalik started a rush up ice with Saad dishing over to Kubalik. After the Czech winger crossed the opposing blue line, he dipped his shoulder and fed a pass to Saad in front. Unfortunately, the bid was denied.

Early in the opening frame, the Blue Jackets did a good job of controlling the pace of play. They generated numerous quality scoring chances early, including on the power play, but Robin Lehner stood tall. 

After very little action to touch on, the Blackhawks struck first. Calvin de Haan fed a pass up the left wing boards to Alex DeBrincat in the Blackhawks’ zone. DeBrincat subsequently fired a pass off the glass and down the ice. The feed perfectly found Drake Caggiula at the opposing blue line, waiting for the dish. Caggiula skated in on the two-on-two and wired a perfect shot to the top right corner of the net for his first goal of the season.

Drake Caggiula's first goal of the year is NICE

Stream the game here: https://t.co/heSdrKpFnT pic.twitter.com/4UMWQE1ceq

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) October 19, 2019

After the impressive tally by Caggiula, the Blackhawks took their lead into the first intermission, despite being outshot by the Blue Jackets 15–10 and badly out possessed. 

Second period

The middle frame against Columbus felt awfully familiar. The Blackhawks seemed to come out flat, unlike they did against Edmonton. The game Monday finally seemed like the Blackhawks improved in the middle frame. They didn’t play bad, but they were still outshot and out possessed.

The best chance of the early minutes came from Chicago. Calvin de Haan found the puck behind the net and dished it out in front to Patrick Kane. Kane was able to get a good shot off, but Columbus goaltender Elvis Merzlikins made an excellent save on the play.

About five and a half minutes into the period, the Blue Jackets’ top center took over. Pierre-Luc Dubois was fighting for the puck against the Blackhawks’ top pairing and was able to wiggle his way around Connor Murphy for the loose puck. Upon gaining possession, Dubois out-waited Robin Lehner, forcing him out of position, and fired a bad angle shot into the back of the wide open net. The game-tying goal felt inevitable after Columbus had dominated possession.

The Blackhawks’ best chance of the period came about a minute after the Dubois goal. Merzlikins attempted to move the puck up ice but the pass was picked off by Andrew Shaw. Shaw found Kane down low to Merzlikins’ right side as he waited for one of his linemates to get open. Dylan Strome ended up being open back door, but could not connect on the one-timer that would have given Chicago the lead.

The Blackhawks survived the middle frame without yielding any more damage. Columbus outshot Chicago once again in the period and was the better possession team again. 

Third period

The opening minutes of the third period did not look great for the Blackhawks. They looked sluggish and behind in comparison to their opponent. Around three minutes into the period, a Blackhawks turnover led to a Columbus rush up the ice. Defenseman Markus Nutivaara fired a shot on net and followed his own rebound. The rebound shot wasn’t as strong as the first, but he got just enough on the puck to float it into the back of the net and give the visitors the 2–1 lead.

https://twitter.com/NHL_fi/status/1185518584627367937

Following the goal, the Blackhawks found more of a pep in their step. They seemed to turn it on after going down a goal in the third period. With about 12 minutes remaining, the Blackhawks had an important power play but nearly cost themselves. Nick Foligno had a shorthanded breakaway and the puck squeaked through Lehner. However, the whistle had already been blown before the puck trickled out from under Lehner and into the back of the net. Chicago lived to see another day.

The reason that power play was so important is because about forty seconds later, Gustafsson set up at the point on that power play and found Patrick Kane at his usual right wing spot on the man advantage. Kane gifted a perfect pass across the ice to DeBrincat, who was set up at the left wing face-off dot. DeBrincat wasted no time, one-timing the puck into the back of the net to tie the game at two-a-piece. 

pic.twitter.com/oApg048srb

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) October 19, 2019

For the remainder of the third, the Blackhawks penalty kill stood tall and Lehner looked good. The Blackhawks were able to generate a power play themselves, thanks to Ryan Carpenter, but they could not capitalize on the opportunity. The game required overtime to determine a winner at 1901 W. Madison St. 

Overtime

Columbus won the opening face-off of the extra frame and proceeded up ice. Despite having possession for the first forty seconds, the visitors could not do anything with the opportunity. 

Instead, the dynamic Kane-Toews duo proceeded up the ice with Toews feeding Kane as the trigger man. Kane put a shot on net, that ultimately hit Toews’ shin pad, and it found its way into the back of the net to secure the Blackhawks 3–2 victory. 

Jonathan Toews overtime winner for his first goal of the season. He’ll take it. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/Cwjr2pASuC

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) October 19, 2019

Quick Hits

• Day late, but not a dollar short: The Blackhawks lacked meaningful energy until the Blue Jackets took the 2–1 lead early in the third period. After that, the Blackhawks were by far the better team. However, one player’s energy that stuck out was Alex Nylander. He was constantly back checking and was almost always one of the first player up ice when he was out there. Other players had great energy too, but you could see Nylander embracing the fourth line role and making the most of it. 
• Is he a backup?: Robin Lehner, the “backup” goalie, looked sensational for the Blackhawks on Friday night. Despite giving up two goals, he made many big saves throughout the game, especially early in the first when the Blue Jackets were badly outplaying the Blackhawks. If the Crawford/Lehner duo look like they did on Monday and Friday, respectively, then the Blackhawks have something they can be proud of in net.
• Top shelf/top line: The Blackhawks “first line” was responsible for all three goals Friday night, as Alex DeBrincat scored on the power play and both Drake Caggiula and Jonathan Toews registered their first goals of the season. If the top line can get going and the second line follows suit, then the offense will continue to look like it did last season and, potentially, even better.

The Blackhawks will remain home as they wait for the Washington Capitals. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. CDT on Sunday, October 20.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks come from behind, beat Blue Jackets in overtime appeared first on The Rink.

I get the utmost pleasure of bringing you coverage and updates of the Blackhawks’ prospects in the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) all season long! Last year was a busy year in the CHL, as the likes of Adam Boqvist, Nicholas Beaudin, Philipp Kurashev, and Mikael Hakkarainen were all tearing up either the CHL or USHL. However, all of those players have graduated to the AHL and you can find further coverage on them with Mario. Now, the cupboard is bare in the CHL with only three current prospects across the three leagues—the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), Western Hockey League (WHL) and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL)—that make up the CHL, with a potential fourth, which we will get to.

This article is designed to give you an understanding of what to expect from each of the Blackhawks’ CHL prospects so you are prepared to follow along with our coverage all season!

Michal Teply

The Blackhawks’ first fourth-round pick in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft (105th overall) was originally drafted out of the Czech Republic back in June.

Michal Teply skates toward the net looking to make a play for HC Bílí Tygři Liberec in the Czech Republic. (Photograph courtesy of Jiri Princ / Billi Tygri Liberec)

Teply is a big winger, standing 6-foot-3 inches and weighing 187 pounds, with a good shot. He has the potential to become a good scoring wing that provides excellent depth for the Blackhawks. However, he will certainly have to work on his skating. During the Blackhawks’ prospect camp scrimmage this past summer, Teply was sprung on a breakaway only to stop his feet and ultimately get caught from behind by the third overall selection in 2019, Kirby Dach. Teply was never a very strong skater, but that play seemed to reinforce that notion.

Aside from his skating, the most notable growth Teply will need is adjusting to North American ice. After being a mainstay on Czech national teams growing up, he has only ever really played on the much wider European ice. If he hopes to have a successful NHL career, the biggest adjustment in order to accomplish that goal will be transitioning successfully to the smaller, faster North American ice.

Teply was drafted twice this past summer, also being selected in the WHL Import Draft, where he was taken fourth overall by the Winnipeg Ice. Through nine games with the Ice as of Oct. 15, Teply currently leads the team in goals (four) and points (eight), while being tied for second in assists with four. The young Czech winger has, so far, lived up to the hype of his import draft slot.

Teply’s progression during this season in the WHL will be telling of his potential pro future. The WHL is known as a tough league, rarely having 100-point scorers that are not veterans of the league. I am not saying Teply will put up 100 points, but if he can average a point per game or better, that will be beneficial for his development and future outlook within the Blackhawks’ organization.

Cole Moberg

The seventh-round pick from the Prince George Cougars in the WHL could be poised to become the gem of Stan Bowman’s 2019 draft class. The defenseman has excellent size for his age (6-foot-3, 198 pounds) and possesses good skating ability along with a cannon of a shot from the point.

Cole Moberg celebrates a goal against the Vancouver Giants. (Photograph courtesy of the Vancouver Giants / Rik Fedyck Photography)

Moberg is coming off a 40-point campaign in the WHL last season, playing in 61 games. The right-handed defenseman also tallied 13 goals and had five power play points during the campaign. The Blackhawks snatched him up in the seventh round, which could make Moberg a gem in their most recent draft class.

Fellow The-Rink writer Juliana Nikac and I both really like Moberg, as heard on one of our latest episodes of The Rinkcast. I compared Moberg to Jason Garrison, before age caught up to the defenseman. He possessed an excellent shot from the point, similar to Moberg, although I believe Moberg will ultimately be a better skater than Garrison.

In only four games as of Canadian Thanksgiving, Moberg has registered one goal and one assist for the Cougars. Moberg currently sits in ninth for team scoring despite playing half as many games as his teammates. 

Keep an eye on Moberg this season in Prince George. He could really surprise a lot of people and be an excellent second or third-pairing defenseman for the Blackhawks down the road.

Alexis Gravel

Goaltender Alexis Gravel is coming off an incredible season with the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL. After being selected in the sixth round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, Gravel posted a 33-win season for the Mooseheads and another 14 playoff wins, leading the Mooseheads to a QMJHL championship appearance. 

Alexis Gravel skates for the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL. (Photograph courtesy of Shawn Davidson / QMJHL)

Gravel has impressed a lot of people given where he was drafted. After his excellent season last year and a solid showing at prospect camp, Gravel returned to Halifax looking to pick up where he left off.

However, the season did not begin as planned. After two games, Gravel gave up eight goals in just over four periods of play during the Mooseheads’ games on Sept. 20 and 21. After sitting for a few weeks, Gravel started back-to-back games during the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend, picking up two wins and only yielding a total of three goals. The second game was the most impressive for Gravel, as he stopped 49 of 50 shots on goal and picked up the big win to make it five straight wins for Halifax.

Gravel is a big goalie, standing at 6-foot-3 inches and 219 pounds. The young netminder has certainly shown promise in Halifax and the potential to be a part of the Blackhawks’ future plans as one of their two goalies. On the low end, he seems like he could be an AHL regular who can spot start as needed. On the high end, conservatively, he could be a backup goalie in the NHL.

Keep an eye on Gravel this season as he looks to replicate, and possibly improve on, his impressive run last year in the QMJHL.

Kirby Dach

Kirby Dach is most certainly the wildcard of the entire group being previewed. Yes, he is technically still with the Blackhawks, as he is on a rehab stint in Rockford as of Canadian Thanksgiving. However, once Dach gets his nine-game tryout, if the Blackhawks deem he is not ready for the NHL, he would return to the Saskatoon Blades of the WHL where he would likely “bum slay” the competition. 

Kirby Dach skates with the Saskatoon Blades. (Photograph courtesy of Marissa Baecker / Getty Images)

Dach has excellent size, and if able to quickly adjust to the NHL game, could make an impact on the Blackhawks’ roster this season. However, it is likely that he will return to the Blades, at which time, there will be a nice feature on the young center and what to watch for this season.

For now, all fans will be monitoring the situation with Dach, wondering whether he will stick in the NHL all year or return to the WHL and fine tune his game to be an impact piece on the Blackhawks’ roster next season.

Follow The-Rink on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for prospect coverage all season! And, follow me everywhere, too (@rnldluce). See you out on The-Rink.

The post CHL: Get to know the Blackhawks’ CHL prospects appeared first on The Rink.

The Blackhawks entered Monday’s contest still searching for their first victory of the season. Chicago looked poised to beat Winnipeg after taking a 2–0 lead early in Saturday’s game, but ultimately fell short of their first win. Instead, the Blackhawks looked to beat one of the two remaining unbeaten teams in the NHL.

The Blackhawks experienced a heavy line shakeup ahead of Saturday’s contest. The lines set for Monday were as follows:

DeBrincat – Toews – Caggiula

Shaw – Strome – Kane

Saad – Kampf – Kubalik

Smith – Carpenter – Nylander

Keith – Gustafsson

Maatta – Seabrook

de Haan – Murphy

Crawford

Despite a good game from Robin Lehner on Saturday, the Blackhawks opted to go with the veteran Corey Crawford against the league’s top team on Monday night.

First period

The first period started well for the Blackhawks. Not even 15 seconds into the period, Dominik Kubalik fired an absolute rocket at Mike Smith for the game’s first solid chance. 

Despite the fast start for the Blackhawks, not much happened in the period. The Blackhawks managed to fire 10 pucks at Mike Smith in the first compared to the Oilers’ 12. A notable stat from the first period was the Blackhawks’ penalty kill keeping the league’s second-best power play off the scoresheet early. 

The Oilers came up empty on their two power plays in the first period, but Edmonton almost took the lead on the power play after drawing iron on the man advantage. 

However, the post proved to be Crawford’s best friend and ultimately kept the game scoreless through the first period. The Blackhawks not only lost the shots on goal battle in the opening frame, but also were losing in the face off dot with Edmonton winning 56% of the draws. 

Second period

The Blackhawks came out of the first intermission with a sense of purpose, admittedly something they lacked in the last three games. After some pressure early from the Blackhawks, they were rewarded.

Just after the four-minute mark in the period, the Blackhawks and Oilers lined up to Smith’s right for a face off in the Edmonton zone. Dylan Strome won a critical faceoff after a bit of a scrum for the puck. After Strome gained possession, he found Patrick Kane, who had yet to move from his starting position, and Kane buried the puck past Smith after a little backhand-forehand motion.

Patrick Kane (@88PKane) isn't even a center and he owns the face-off dot. pic.twitter.com/DXSSUVsAA7

— NHL (@NHL) October 15, 2019

Not long after, Andrew Shaw set the tone for the period. After defenseman Joel Persson was mesmerized by Kane behind the net, he did not see Shaw coming from his weak side. Shaw delivered a clean, hard hit to Persson, knocking him straight to the ice. Persson’s teammates did not like the Shaw hit and took exception. Ultimately, Jujhar Khaira took a roughing penalty for going after Shaw.

BRUH pic.twitter.com/5ldfitthC4

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) October 15, 2019

Despite the power play opportunity, the Blackhawks could not capitalize, keeping the score dormant at 1–0. 

Both teams traded power plays for much of the remainder of the period. With about four minutes left in the period, Brandon Saad nearly had a beautiful goal after he danced around an Edmonton defender. Saad took the puck hard to the net after gaining the inside on an Oiler defender, but ultimately hit the post. The goal would have been highlight-reel material for the power forward.

With just under three minutes remaining, the Oilers looked like they tied the game. Despite the optimistic call, the goal was waived off for goaltender interference. Connor McDavid had speed around Connor Murphy and took the puck to the net. Crawford stopped the initial bid, but McDavid continued into Crawford, causing the puck to cross the line, therefore resulting in the no-goal call.

Chicago was able to take their lead into the second intermission. The Blackhawks looked much better in the second period for the first time in this young 2019–20 season. 

NBC Sports Chicago broadcaster Pat Boyle mentioned at the end of the period that Jeremy Colliton challenged his team to be better in the middle frame and it is safe to confidently say they did just that. A 17-shot period for the Blackhawks gave them the 27–18 shots on goal advantage.

Third period

The Blackhawks brought the same energy out in the third period as they did in the second. The Blackhawks’ defense was all over the Oilers early. 

Just under seven minutes into the period, the Blackhawks’ effort paid off. The fourth line was out on the ice against McDavid and young Alexander Nylander made an excellent play against the Edmonton superstar. 

As McDavid went to bring the puck up the ice, Nylander was there to take away the puck from McDavid. Ryan Carpenter pushed the puck up the ice and Nylander was all over it. He gained possession just to the left of Smith and hesitated slightly to get Smith out of position. Nylander made Smith pay, and wired a beautiful shot past the goaltender to give the Blackhawks a 2–0 lead.

Five hole and goal! #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/i8BliaweuM

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 15, 2019

Quickly following the goal, the Blackhawks were sent to the power play after a poor offensive zone penalty by Khaira. However, the Blackhawks were unable to capitalize.

With 8:45 remaining in the period, Strome had an excellent opportunity in front of Edmonton’s crease. As the second line dominated possession in the Edmonton zone, Shaw was able to get the puck to Kane behind the net, as Kane slid the puck away from the scrum and finessed it out in front. Strome had an opportunity after a Kane pass, but Smith beat Strome with an excellent save to keep the deficit at two for the Oilers.

The period was a chippy one, as Calvin de Haan and McDavid exchanged pleasantries after a solid check by de Haan.

No love at all rn pic.twitter.com/XIDDQthFnK

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) October 15, 2019

With just over two minutes remaining, the Oilers were able to take advantage of a six-on-four power play. James Neal scored his eighth goal of the young season for the Oilers after a nice pass from Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to find him back door. 

It's Real Deal James Neal (@jneal_18) with goal No. 8 on the season. pic.twitter.com/XjE9pHBp5l

— NHL (@NHL) October 15, 2019

With just over 30 seconds remaining, David Kampf made an excellent play on the wall in the Blackhawks zone to get the puck down the ice. With the goalie pulled, Saad gained possession deep in the Edmonton zone and dished the puck back to Jonathan Toews. Toews’ shot was blocked by Nugent-Hopkins and Kampf’s follow up shot was denied too. However, Saad found the puck laying in the blue paint and tapped it into the empty net to give the Blackhawks the 3–1 win.

Brandon Saad seals the deal for the #Blackhawks with a well-deserved empty-net goal. Chicago wins 3-1 pic.twitter.com/CHw3J4IOt2

— Juliana Nikac (@juliananikac) October 15, 2019

Quick hits:

• D-D-Defense! — The defense looked spectacular on Monday night. It finally felt like the pairings were the way they should be. Keith and Murphy played well together (more on that in a minute), Gustafsson found his ideal partner in de Haan and the Maatta-Seabrook pairing continued to play well. This feels like the first time in a while that the defense is actually…good?
• An “A” for effort! — The team’s effort was outstanding against Edmonton. The Blackhawks’ forecheck was constantly in the face of Oilers defenders and made it difficult to play against. That high level of energy is what it is going to take for this team to win games. Now that there are more “grit” and “energy” players in the lineup, this could be an identity the Blackhawks adopt: be aggressive, be energetic and be a pain to play against.
• Oh my Nylander! — Despite looking lost in the first period and barely seeing the ice in the second, Nylander scored the game-winning goal on Monday night. Nylander seemed to find his step on the fourth line in the third period, playing with a lot of energy and being rewarded with a goal on a hustle play that saw him strip McDavid and outhustle defenders to get to the puck. If Nylander can contribute in a limited role, he could prove very valuable to the team’s depth.
• Where’s McDavid? — Fans did not hear McDavid’s name called all that much on the broadcast Monday night. He was almost non-existent. Specifically, the Keith-Murphy pairing did an excellent job against McDavid’s line and played excellent during the 23-plus minutes that both players played. The recipe for success against the Oilers is to shut down their stars and the Blackhawks did exactly that on Monday.
• I love Calvin de Haan — De Haan has brought a lot of assets to the Blackhawks that they have lacked since Niklas Hjalmarsson was traded a few years ago. He plays strong defense, is not afraid of contact, has a great stick in his own zone and can avoid taking big hits that result in players falling out of position. Plainly said, as the author of this piece, I love Calvin de Haan. 

The Blackhawks will be off until Friday when they take on the Columbus Blue Jackets at the United Center. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CDT.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks win first game, deliver Oilers first loss appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com host “Gatekeeper” is joined by staff members Mario Tirabassi, Aaron Goldschmidt, Eric Andrews, Juliana Nikac and Ron Luce to talk in-depth about Blackhawks prospects.

• The Blackhawks sit at 2-1-1 with two preseason and an exhibition game remaining.
• Roster is not finalized but is starting to shape up.
• We take a long look at the six prospect tiers and why the writers rated players the way they have.
• Don’t miss the hot takes.
• We wrap with Rinkrat PuckBag segment.

Please subscribe, rate this episode, and even write us a review. Reviews will be read on the air.

Also, Please help spread the word to more #RinkRats and visit our sponsor www.PUCKHCKY.com. Use the discount code “THERINK” for 10% off all orders.

The Rinkcast is brought to you by the Overtime Podcast Network

The post Blackhawks Rinkcast – Season 3, Episode 1 – Prospect tier wrap special appeared first on The Rink.

A look at new #Blackhawks scoreboard with live in-game stats: pic.twitter.com/I0tdIPNEFP

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) September 19, 2019

In typical preseason fashion, more of the stars play in the home games than in the road games. Dylan Strome and Alex DeBrincat both played last night in Detroit, so they were off tonight. The lines were as follows:

Nylander – Toews – Kane

Saad – Kampf – Kubalik

D. Sikura – Highmore – Saarela

Hakkarainen – T. Sikura – Hagel

Keith – Boqvist

Maatta – Seabrook

Gilbert – Holm

Crawford

First period:

As fans settled into their seats and continually gazed at the brand new scoreboard, the Blackhawks trotted out the top line to start the game. Alexander Nylander won the lottery for the game, starting on the left wing with Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane. 

Roughly five minutes into the contest, Toews had the best opportunity of the early minutes with a partial breakaway. Unfortunately, after a spectacular forehand backhand move, Toews could not finish and the game remained deadlocked at 0–0.

Later in the period, with about five minutes remaining, the Red Wings earned a power play after a Dennis Gilbert hooking penalty. However, the Blackhawks were able to escape without any damage from the Red Wings’ man advantage. 

But, another power play chance for the Red Wings spelled trouble for the Blackhawks. With just under two minutes remaining in the period, Detroit forward Filip Zadina placed a shot toward the net from the right slot. The shot never made it to the net. Instead, after a Seabrook block, the shot bounced perfectly onto the stick of Taro Hirose at the left face off dot. Hirose finished the play and scored the opening goal of the game for the visitors. 

The Red Wings took their 1–0 lead, as well as a 10–6 shots on goal advantage, into the first intermission at 1901 W. Madison St. 

Second period:

Right out the gate, the Red Wings generated the first good opportunity of the period. Joe Veleno found himself wide open on Crawford’s right side. Valeno placed a shot up near Crawford’s shoulder, but the Chicago netminder was able to make a solid save and keep the young forward off the scoresheet.

Roughly two minutes after the Veleno chance, the Blackhawks finally took advantage of a Red Wings mistake. After Tyler Sikura dumped the puck in deep, Detroit goalie Jonathan Bernier mishandled the puck behind the net. Brandon Hagel was able to steal the puck below the goal line after an aggressive forecheck and jam the puck toward the net. The puck squeaked through Bernier, who was not completely set in his net, and tied the game at 1–1.

Cleanup crew cleans up!#CHIvsDET pic.twitter.com/56Cf5QWnhk

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) September 19, 2019

Just after the halfway point of the period, the Blackhawks struck again. A Toews outlet pass from the defensive zone found Nylander at the near blue line. Nylander gave the puck to Kane at the red line and Kane found some space in the offensive zone. The Red Wings were concentrating on the three Chicago forwards and completely forgot about Duncan Keith, who jumped into the play. Kane found Keith and the two time Norris Trophy winner found the back of the net with his shot to give the Blackhawks the 2–1 lead.

88 and 2… feels like these two are developing some chemistry.#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/UDSrcPM3hj

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) September 19, 2019

The Blackhawks entered intermission with the one goal lead over their Original Six foe.

Third period:

The best chance of the third period came at around the seven minute mark. Adam Boqvist danced around a defender in beautiful fashion—dragging the puck between his legs in the process—and placed a light shot toward Bernier’s glove side, but was unable to capitalize on the attempt.

Adam Boqvist is a defenseman: Part 2 pic.twitter.com/Tkv9sxTzlg

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) September 19, 2019

The Blackhawks continued to pepper Bernier with shots all night long. Detroit had a few quality chances, but each time Crawford stood tall and made the big save. 

The Red Wings tried to tie the game late in the third with the extra attacker but could not find a way past Crawford. The Blackhawks sealed the 2–1 lead and captured their first preseason win at the United Center.

Quick hits:

• The Crow’s nest: Corey Crawford looked really strong in his first preseason action. He is certainly still a question mark, given his recent injury history, but if he can sustain his top level of play for roughly 40 games, then he and Lehner will be the best goaltending duo in the league. After allowing only one goal on 24 shots, it is safe to say Crawford made an impact in his first preseason outing. 
• The lottery spot: Alexander Nylander hit the jackpot on Wednesday, flanking Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane on Chicago’s top line. The young Swede picked up this third point of the preseason on Duncan Keith’s goal and is continuing to make the front office’s decision very hard in about 10 days or so. He has played very well and will likely get a chance to prove himself on the opening day roster for the Blackhawks. Maybe a change of scenery is just what the doctor ordered for the younger Nylander brother.

The Blackhawks remain in Chicago and await the Boston Bruins on Saturday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST and can be seen on NBCSCH+.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks defeat Red Wings 2–1 in preseason home opener appeared first on The Rink.

Parts of the series

Introduction

Tiers one and two

Tier three

Tier four

Tier five

Tier six

Complete tier listings with our panel’s original average tier ratings (* represents a unanimous rating from the panel)

Tier one

Adam Boqvist (1*)
Kirby Dach (1*)

Tier two

Ian Mitchell (1.833)
Nicolas Beaudin (2.333)

Tier three

Alex Vlasic (2.833)
Alex Nylander (3)
Dominik Kubalik (3.167)
Philipp Kurashev (3.167)
Chad Krys (3.333)
Jake Wise (3.5)
Alexis Gravel (4)

Tier four

Evan Barratt (3.5)
MacKenzie Entwistle (3.667)
Aleksi Saarela (3.833)
Josiah Slavin (3.833)
Dennis Gilbert (4)
Matthew Highmore (4)
Kevin Lankinen (4)
Niklas Nordgren (4)
John Quenneville (4*)
Michal Teply (4)
Lucas Carlsson (4.167)
Tim Soderlund (4.167)
Alexandre Fortin (4.333)

Tier five

Brandon Hagel (4.333)
Antti Saarela (4.333)
Dominic Basse (4.5)
Artur Kayumov (4.5)
Josh Ess (4.667)
Jakub Galvas (4.833)
Mikael Hakkarainen (4.833)
Reese Johnson (4.833)
Cole Moberg (4.833)
Andrei Altybarmakyan (5.167)
Ivan Nalimov (5.167)
Joni Tuulola (5.167)

Tier six

Mathias From (5.333)
Roope Laavainen (5.333)
Ryan Shea (5.333)
Parker Foo (5.5)
Jake Ryczek (5.5)
Nathan Noel (5.667)
Graham Knott (5.833)

Note: Our panel discovered at a later date Jack Ramsey had been omitted from the series and agreed Ramsey falls into tier six.

The post RECAP: The-Rink’s Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers appeared first on The Rink.

In usual preseason fashion, the Blackhawks only dressed a few regulars for the road matchup against the Capitals. The lines were as follows:

Quenneville – Carpenter – Perlini

Nylander – Kampf – Saarela

D. Sikura – Highmore – Wedin

McLaughlin – Nilsson – Versteeg

Gilbert – Boqvist

Koekkoek – Gustafsson

Dahlstrom – Beaudin

Delia

First period:

The early portion of the first period was not full of much excitement. Neither team was able to generate any meaningful offense. With both teams sitting many key players and it being the first game of the season, it was expected that the game would begin slow. 

However, at the 7:20 mark in the first period, the Blackhawks finally got it going. A nice play on the boards by the highly controversial winger Alexander Nylander led to an open pass from the young Swede to fellow Swede Erik Gustafsson. Gustafsson ripped a big slap shot on net and Aleksi Saarela got just enough on the shot to redirect the chance and get credit for the tally. 

The Blackhawks' first (preseason) goal of the 2019-20 season belongs to Aleksi Saarela! pic.twitter.com/9idGOa5q6c

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) September 16, 2019

The Blackhawks took the 1–0 advantage into the first intermission in Washington without anything getting past goaltender Collin Delia. The Blackhawks also took their 11–6 shots on goal advantage into the intermission as well. 

Second period:

The second period opened up with the Capitals finally putting a shot past Delia. After the Capitals dug a puck out from behind the net, the puck ended up on the stick of defenseman Tyler Lewington. Lewington was only able to get a weak shot off toward the net, but Washington first round pick Connor McMichael slid a beautiful backhand pass to Damien Riat, who tied the game.

About two minutes after the opening goal for the home team, Nylander scored his first goal in a Blackhawks uniform. Adam Boqvist put a shot on net with no net front presence of any kind, possibly looking for a rebound. Right before the puck made it to the net, Nylander was able to get a stick on the low shot, corral the puck and finish off a backhand shot to give the Blackhawks the lead once again. 

Nylander gets on the board for #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/Racqd8GeTd

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) September 17, 2019

Sadly, the 2–1 lead did not last for long. Roughly three minutes after Nylander’s tally, the Capitals capitalized (pun fully intended) on a power play opportunity. After a failed clearing attempt by the Blackhawks’ penalty kill, Washington kept it in and put the puck into the slot. Aliaksei Protas, from the slot, found a wide open Travis Boyd on the left wing faceoff dot and he buried the chance to tie the game at two apiece.

The 2–2 draw did not last either, as both teams traded goals in the early half of the period. This time, Protas was the beneficiary of a rebound chance from Beck Malenstyn and recorded his second point of the night to give the home team a 3–2 lead. The Capitals’ third goal came just over a minute after the equalizer. 

Despite the rally from the Capitals, the Blackhawks refused to go away easily. Just before the 13 minute mark of the period, Matthew Highmore was able to get a pass to Dylan Sikura in the offensive zone. Sikura attempted a shot on net, but the puck bounced toward the right wing boards where Boqvist picked it up. Boqvist batted the puck a few times in mid air, brought the puck under control and walked out from behind the net to Copley’s right side and fired a rocket over Copley’s left shoulder. The goal was Boqvist’s first of the preseason and tied the game at three each.

.@BoqvistAdam is a defenseman pic.twitter.com/A8NnM68CgJ

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) September 17, 2019

The Blackhawks showed resilience, responding after two quick goals by the home team, which is an excellent sight to see, even in the preseason. Not only was the score deadlocked, but each team had 19 shots on goal through two periods as well.

Third period:

The final frame of regulation played out very differently than that of the second period. Rather than both teams trading goals as they did in the middle frame, both teams buckled down defensively and did not allow the opposing team to score the potential game winning goal. 

There were a few quality chances during the period. However, neither team capitalized on power play chances or at five on five. The game required overtime to decide a winner. 

Overtime:

The overtime frame was just as exciting as one would hope. Early in the frame, the Capitals had a two on one opportunity but could not capitalize on the chance.

The best chance of the night for the Blackhawks came via a stretch pass from Nylander, who was very involved in this game. Nylander found Gustafsson at the opposing blue line before he found an open Ryan Carpenter, who had a breakaway from the blue line in. However, Carpenter could not convert on the chance.

Later in the overtime frame, after some sustained pressure by the Capitals, bulldozing forward Tom Wilson was able to dip his shoulder on Sikura and tuck the puck past Delia to give the Washington Capitals the 4–3 overtime win against the Blackhawks.

Quick hits:

• The kid with the blonde hair: Alex Nylander was very good in this game. He was all over the ice offensively, contributing a goal and an assist, and also showed off a beautiful stretch pass during the overtime period. Despite a brutal showing at the Blackhawks’ prospect camp, Nylander seems to have rebounded nicely entering actual game action. If Nylander continues to look like this during the preseason, there is a very good chance he gets a chance on the opening night roster. 
• Boqvist will be the real deal: The young Swede looked like a superstar with the puck on his stick. His goal said it all, as Boqvist was able to bat the puck out of mid air, control it and walk to the front of the net before ending the play with a snipe to the top corner of the net. There is zero doubt Boqvist is going to be a star in the NHL, but the moral of the story is that he should not be rushed. Let him do that all year in Rockford and, if need be, bring him up if he earns it or due to injury.

The Blackhawks jet off to Detroit to take on the Red Wings on Tuesday. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CST and will be broadcasted on NBCSCH+.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks fall to Capitals in overtime appeared first on The Rink.

Our series concludes today with tiers two and one, defined as a prospect seen as a top six forward, No. 2 or 3 defenseman or starting goaltender or a prospect seen as a first line forward, top pairing defenseman or elite goaltender, respectively.

As explained in the introduction piece, each eligible prospect in the system was rated by our staff panel before ultimately being debated to agree on a tier. Each prospect’s original rating average is listed in parentheses after their name, along with a brief synopsis of why they fell in the tier they did.

Players are listed in order of original rating average, with any ties being sorted alphabetically by last name.

Tier one
Adam Boqvist (1)
Boqvist rocketed to the top of the Blackhawks’ top prospects list by being drafted eighth overall in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft. The talented Swedish defenseman entered the organization as arguably the best draftee to come to Chicago since the Blackhawks selected Patrick Kane in 2007. Boqvist also became the best defensive prospect to join the organization in over 15 years. With Chicago stockpiling defensemen through the draft in the last few years, Boqvist headlines the group, as his offensive flair makes him instantly stand out on the ice. Despite questions surrounding his defensive ability and long term health, the dynamic 6-foot, 181 pound blue line phenom has progressed nicely since being selected last summer. Boqvist posted 20 goals and 40 assists in 54 regular season games with the London Knights before exploding for 10 goals in 11 postseason contests. Boqvist is expected to make the jump to the professional game this season, though that may be primarily with the Rockford IceHogs instead of the Blackhawks. Either way, Chicago fans could very well get a look at Boqvist at some point in 2019–20 if injuries require a replacement on the back end. Whether Boqvist’s chance for prime playing time comes at some point this season or beginning in 2020–21, he should become a prominent staple of the Blackhawks’ blue line for the foreseeable future.

Adam Boqvist skates at the 2018 Traverse City Rookie Tournament. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Kirby Dach (1)
Another welcome addition to Chicago’s organization, Dach instantly became the best forward prospect the Blackhawks have added in the draft since selecting Kane. Not only does Dach boast impressive offensive skill, but his size—measuring in at 6-foot-4 and 198 pounds at just 18 years of age—is also something the Chicago forward prospect pool has sorely lacked in recent years. While some considered Dach to be a bit of a surprise pick at the time, he has done nothing but impress since then with strong showings at the Blackhawks’ prospect camp, the Team Canada World Juniors Summer Showcase and the recent Traverse City Rookie Tournament. Though Dach could get a nine game look with Chicago at the beginning of the season, his status for the rest of the season remains to be seen. While it could be argued the best place for his development might be Rockford, the CHL’s transfer agreement does not allow that, meaning Dach will either have to spend the entire season with the Blackhawks or return to the Saskatoon Blades. Sustaining a concussion in the final game of the Traverse City tournament may put Dach a couple steps back since he has yet to participate in any of the Blackhawks’ training camp sessions. Regardless, it is evident that Dach will play a huge role for the organization in the future, as his total package offers a combination of skill, size, desire and leadership Chicago has not seen in quite some time. Both Dach and Boqvist joined John Quenneville as the only three players our panel voted unanimously on.

Kirby Dach skates at the 2019 Traverse City Rookie Tournament. (Photograph courtesy of Dave Reginek / NHLI via Getty Images)

Tier two
Ian Mitchell (1.833)
Mitchell was a bit of an unknown in the hockey world when Chicago selected him in the second round of the 2017 NHL Entry Draft out of the Alberta Junior Hockey League. However, in the time since, Mitchell has done nothing short of show the Blackhawks got a steal, impressing in his first two seasons at the University of Denver. Though the 5-foot-11, 174 pound blue liner is viewed as an offensive defenseman, his defensive game has also developed nicely since being drafted, with some viewing him as more of a two way defenseman with high offensive upside as opposed to merely an offensively minded blue liner. In 80 total games with the Pioneers, Mitchell has racked up 57 points and a plus minus rating of 35. The St. Albert, Alberta, native will return to Denver to captain the Pioneers in 2019–20, but is expected to sign his entry level contract with the Blackhawks and forgo his senior season. Whether Mitchell makes his NHL debut late this season or in 2020–21, he has made it known he wants to make the jump straight to the NHL without any time in Rockford. Regardless of when he debuts, Mitchell should develop into a valuable part of Chicago’s back end for the foreseeable future.

Ian Mitchell will captain the University of Denver in the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of University of Denver Athletics)

Nicolas Beaudin (2.333)
Beaudin was a bit of a surprising pick to many when Chicago picked him 27th overall in 2018 after choosing Boqvist at No. 8. Then viewed as another offensively minded defenseman, Beaudin has transformed his game into being a legitimate two way option capable of chipping in offensively as well as being reliable in his own end. His efforts to focus on improving defensively showed last season. After combining for a plus minus rating of 8 over his first two full seasons with Drummondville, Beaudin exploded for a rating of 60 in 2018–19 while still posting over a point per game offensively. Initially appearing to be just another offensive defenseman in Chicago’s system, Beaudin has quickly justified his draft position by establishing himself as the top two way blue line prospect in the Blackhawks’ system. Being left handed helps Beaudin’s chances to play big minutes down the road, as both Boqvist and Mitchell play the right side. The Chateauguay, Quebec, native enters the first year of his entry level contract this season and will likely spend it learning the pro game in Rockford on what is expected to be a stacked IceHogs blue line. While Beaudin, who measures in exactly the same as Mitchell in both height and weight, will probably need at least this season to be prepared for full time NHL action, he should be another valuable piece in Chicago for the foreseeable future, as his two way game should help balance out Boqvist and Mitchell’s offensive styles of play. One panelist summed up Beaudin well by saying, “Entering the draft, Beaudin was a clear cut offensive minded blue liner, but after joining an organization with players such as Ian Mitchell, Adam Boqvist and (at the time) Henri Jokiharju, there was doubt that Beaudin could be shipped. He now looks like the defenseman that every team needs but no one talks about: A quiet (in a positive way) player who makes the smart play before the flashy play.”

Nicolas Beaudin skates at the 2019 Traverse City Rookie Tournament. (Photograph courtesy of Dave Reginek / NHLI via Getty Images)

The-Rink thanks you for tuning in for our Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers.

The post The-Rink’s Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers, part five appeared first on The Rink.

Our series continues today with tier three, defined as a prospect seen as a middle six forward, second pairing defenseman or backup goalie.

As explained in the introduction piece, each eligible prospect in the system was rated by our staff panel before ultimately being debated to agree on a tier. Each prospect’s original rating average is listed in parentheses after their name, along with a brief synopsis of why they fell in the tier they did.

Players are listed in order of original rating average, with any ties being sorted alphabetically by last name.

Alex Vlasic (2.833)

The cousin of San Jose’s Marc-Edouard Vlasic, the Wilmette, Illinois, native was selected by his hometown team in the second round this June. Vlasic boasts a massive frame for someone his age being listed at 6-foot-6 and 198 pounds. Vlasic has shown an ability to use his size to his advantage, especially in terms of breaking up plays with his reach and blocking shots. As part of the high powered US National Team Development Program over the past two years, Vlasic was relied on more so as a defensive defenseman. However, the big blue liner does have the ability to chip in from the back end thanks to his good vision and slap shot. Vlasic will head to Boston University to join the Terriers, where he will likely spend at least a couple of years before turning pro. Vlasic, who some considered to be a bit of a steal at the draft, could slot into Chicago’s top four in the future if he can develop into a bonafide shutdown defenseman. While he has a bigger frame than former Blackhawk Niklas Hjalmarsson, Vlasic could be the long awaited replacement for the three-time Stanley Cup champion.

The Blackhawks selected Wilmette, Illinois, native Alex Vlasic in the second round in 2019. Vlasic will play at Boston University in 2019–20. (Photograph courtesy of Hickling Images)

Alex Nylander (3)

Nylander, who is the brother of William Nylander of Toronto and son of former Blackhawk Michael Nylander, was acquired by Chicago earlier this summer from Buffalo in exchange for 2017 first round pick Henri Jokiharju. Alex was the eighth overall selection in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft and has spent the majority of his time since then playing for the Rochester Americans in the AHL. The Calgary-born Swede possesses an undeniable amount of offensive skill and flair, but has been surrounded with questions about his intensity and desire. Nylander joins a growing list of recent reclamation projects for Stan Bowman, who hopes the Nylander experiment will turn out more like Dylan Strome than David Rundblad. Nylander’s style is clearly suited for a top six role, but, if he is unable to put his game together, could end up being more like Dylan Sikura has been recently in not quite being able to handle the top six load but also not fitting in as a bottom six player. Though the Blackhawks have a wealth of young talent on the back end, Nylander will need to prove his services were worth jettisoning Jokiharju, who seems primed for a lengthy career as a top four NHL defenseman.

Chicago acquired Alex Nylander from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Henri Jokiharju this summer. (Photograph courtesy of the NHL)

Dominik Kubalik (3.167)

Kubalik joins Chicago’s organization for 2019–20 after being acquired in January from Los Angeles in exchange for a fifth round pick. Originally a 2013 seventh round pick of the Kings, Kubalik tore up the Swiss National League in 2018–19, leading the league with 57 points in 50 games. The Czech Republic native will look to translate his production to North America, where he has not played since 2013–14 in the Ontario Hockey League. Kubalik has been a mainstay on Czech teams at international tournaments, including representing his country in the 2018 Winter Olympics. The 6-foot-2, 179-pound winger also enjoyed a breakout showing at the 2019 World Championships, scoring six goals and adding six assists in 10 games. Kubalik, who is on a one year contract with the Blackhawks, is expected to be in Chicago’s lineup this season. While he could become a standout player if he is able to produce as he did in Switzerland, Kubalik will likely be more along the lines of this year’s Dominik Kahun if he pans out, being someone who can play up and down the lineup and contribute offensively in a supporting role.

Dominik Kubalik will make his North American professional debut in 2019–20 after dominating the Swiss National League in 2018–19. (Photograph courtesy of Getty Images)

Philipp Kurashev (3.167)

Kurashev has been a pleasant surprise thus far in his development, quickly rising up the ranks in Chicago’s system. The Blackhawks drafted Kurashev in the fourth round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft and the Switzerland native has since done nothing but impress regardless of the level of play. In 59 games for the Quebec Remparts, he scored 29 goals and added 36 helpers for career best marks in both goals and points in his junior career. Kurashev particularly stood out on the international stage, with the World Junior Championships highlighting his showings for his country. A regular for Swiss national teams, Kurashev lit it up to lead the tournament with six goals in seven games and finished with seven points. Following his junior season coming to a close, Kurashev made the jump to Rockford, where he played three games for the IceHogs. Kurashev is expected to return to Rockford’s lineup for 2019–20, where he will likely be among the team’s go-to offensive weapons. Though Kurashev has not yet proven himself professionally, his development is trending in the right direction and it appears he could have a successful middle six role in the NHL down the road.

Philipp Kurashev will play in his first full professional season in 2019–20 after finishing last season with the Rockford IceHogs. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Chad Krys (3.333)

Like a couple of other players already covered in the series, Krys may be a player who would best be suited by moving to another organization. The offensive defenseman was once at the top of Chicago’s blue line prospects, but has since dropped down the list with the drafting of other high end defensemen who excel offensively. Drafted in the second round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Krys spent three seasons playing at Boston University to continue his development. In his time as a Terrier, the Connecticut native posted 58 points in 105 games, including 20 points in 30 games last season as an alternate captain. Upon finishing his collegiate season, Krys signed with the Blackhawks and joined the Rockford IceHogs, playing nine games while tallying four assists. The 5-foot-11, 185 pound defender boasts strong skating and passing abilities, but would likely need to be paired with a reliable partner at the NHL level to cover for his defensive deficiencies. The majority of our panel believes Krys will become an everyday NHL player, but, as mentioned previously, his path would likely be easier in another organization. Krys will return to Rockford for the 2019–20 season on a stacked IceHogs blue line.

Chad Krys joined the IceHogs late in the 2018–19 season after spending three years at Boston University. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Jake Wise (3.5)

Wise is among the Blackhawks’ most intriguing forward prospects both because of his skill but also because of a seeming mystique around him. The Naples, Florida, native has missed time with injuries in each of his last two seasons—2017–18 with the US National Team Development Program and 2018–19 at Boston University—which has prevented him from showing what he is capable of when at full health. Once considered a potential first round pick option in the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, Chicago scooped up Wise in the third round. Wise is hard to miss on the ice for that reason: He is good at making defenders miss. He uses his speed and high end stickhandling to elude defenders in tight spaces. Additionally, Wise is responsible defensively, which will help his cause as he moves up the ranks. While our panel was a bit mixed on Wise, his talent is undeniable, and, if he can stay healthy and progress in his development, could turn into a draft day steal in a middle six type of role in the future. The 5-foot-10 centerman will return to the Terriers for 2019–20.

Jake Wise will return to Boston University for 2019–20 looking to put together a full season after playing just 12 games last year. (Photograph courtesy of Boston University Athletics)

Alexis Gravel (4)

Gravel’s initial vote rating indicates a spot in the fourth tier, but upon reconsidering our tiers in terms of goaltenders, our panel decided Gravel was better suited for tier three, as the group believes Gravel will be in NHL blue paint in the future. Once considered a top goaltending prospect for the 2018 draft class, the Blackhawks snagged the German native in the sixth round after a somewhat disappointing 2017–18 season with the Halifax Mooseheads. However, Gravel has done nothing but impress since being drafted, putting together a breakout 2018–19 campaign with Halifax, posting a goals against average of 2.49 and save percentage of .913, both of which were career best marks. Gravel then upped his game in the postseason, recording a .917 save percentage in 23 games, guiding his squad to second place finishes in both the QMJHL’s President’s Cup and the Memorial Cup. Boasting massive size in the goal at 6-foot-3 and 218 pounds, Gravel is still quick and tracks pucks well in addition to being technically sound. Though still relatively early in his progression, Gravel looks as though he could be among the better goaltenders the Blackhawks have drafted and developed in the 21st century. The right handed netminder will return to the Mooseheads in 2019–20.

Alexis Gravel will return to the Halifax Mooseheads for the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of Vincent Ethier/CHL Images)

Stay tuned as The-Rink progresses up the ladder in its Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers.

The post The-Rink’s Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers, part four appeared first on The Rink.

Our series continues today with tier four, defined as a prospect seen as a bottom-six or extra forward, third-pairing or extra defenseman or fringe goalie.

As explained in the introduction piece, each eligible prospect in the system was rated by our staff panel before ultimately being debated to agree on a tier. Each prospect’s original rating average is listed in parentheses after their name, along with a brief synopsis of why they fell in the tier they did.

Players are listed in order of original rating average, with any ties being sorted alphabetically by last name.

Evan Barratt (3.5)

The 2017 third-round pick was one of the players our panel had the hardest time coming to a consensus on. Some felt Barratt is capable of converting his offensive firepower at the collegiate level to the professional ranks for a middle-six role, while some felt he will be nothing more than a serviceable depth piece in the NHL. Either way, Barratt brings a combination of skill and sandpaper the Blackhawks could use in their lineup down the road. The Bristol, Pennsylvania, native will return to Penn State in 2019–20, where he ignited for 43 points in 32 games last season.

Evan Barratt will return to Penn State for the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of Penn State Athletics)

MacKenzie Entwistle (3.667)

Since being acquired in the infamous trade that saw Marian Hossa’s contract dealt to Arizona, Entwistle has established himself as one of the Blackhawks’ most solidified prospects in terms of their future role. The 2017 third-round pick of the Coyotes has embraced the idea of being a bottom-six player at the NHL level and has adjusted his game to suit that role. After winning back-to-back OHL championships on the Hamilton Bulldogs and Guelph Storm and enjoying a breakout showing at the World Junior Championships, Entwistle will turn pro in 2019–20 to join what will likely be a youthful Rockford IceHogs lineup.

Guelph Storm forward MacKenzie Entwistle (left) battles for a puck at the Memorial Cup. (Photograph courtesy of Vincent Ethier / CHL Images)

Aleksi Saarela (3.833)

Saarela joins the Blackhawk organization this season after spending the last two in Carolina’s system. Originally a 2015 third-round pick of the New York Rangers, Saarela was part of the trade that saw Eric Staal leave the Hurricanes at the 2016 trade deadline. Since then, Saarela has spent the majority of his time playing for the Charlotte Checkers in the AHL, where he and his team won the Calder Cup last season. Saarela’s big shot helped him score 30 goals in 2018–19, but he likely will not reach a level like that in the NHL. If Saarela wants to have a lengthy NHL career, it will likely need to be in a depth role. Saarela will be given a chance to crack Chicago’s opening night lineup, but is more likely to start the season in Rockford to adjust to the Blackhawks’ system.

Aleksi Saarela joins the Blackhawks organization for 2019–20 after winning the Calder Cup with the Charlotte Checkers. (Photograph courtesy of Patrick Gorski / Icon Sportswire

Josiah Slavin (3.833)

Slavin was another polarizing player among our panel members. With votes as high as tier two, he clearly is a player who has quickly grabbed the attention of some panelists despite being a seventh-round pick in 2018. Slavin’s rise in the USHL over the last two seasons and showings at the Blackhawks’ development camps have led some to feel he has the tools needed to be a legitimate contributor at the NHL level, playing a simple, but effective, pro-style game. Slavin, who is the younger brother of Carolina’s Jaccob Slavin, possesses a strong work ethic and displays leadership on and off the ice, which have helped his development thus far. The Erie, Colorado, native will head to play at Colorado College, where he will likely spend at least two years before turning pro. While he still has some developing to do, Slavin could very well turn out to be a diamond in the rough and have a successful NHL career, whether as a middle-six player or a depth option.

Josiah Slavin heads to Colorado College after splitting the 2018–19 season between Lincoln and Chicago in the USHL. (Photograph courtesy of Brad Repplinger)

Dennis Gilbert (4)

Gilbert is a perfect representation of a few players who our panel feels can be a solid NHL player, just likely not in a Blackhawk sweater. The Notre Dame product provides the physicality Chicago’s blue line pipeline lacks, but very well might not have a clear path to NHL ice time with all of the other young defensemen in the system who have higher upsides. Drafted in the third round of the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Gilbert turned pro in 2018–19 after three seasons with the Fighting Irish. The Buffalo, New York, native played in 63 games for Rockford, where he racked up 14 points, to go along with one game for the Blackhawks. Our panel was in full agreement Gilbert has the tools to be a reliable and rugged stay-at-home defenseman in the NHL, but most felt that would be elsewhere.

Dennis Gilbert tallied 14 points for the Rockford IceHogs in 2018–19. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Matthew Highmore (4)

Highmore is a bit of an interesting player in the group because of his circumstances. Most of our panel feels he has the tools needed to be an everyday bottom-six center in the NHL. However, injuries have hampered Highmore thus far in his career, washing out the majority of his 2018–19 season. The undrafted free agent signing played in 13 games for the Blackhawks in 2017–18, but managed just 12 games in 2018–19, all with Rockford. Despite his injury issues, Highmore has proven to be an effective scorer at the AHL level, posting 52 points in 76 games over two seasons with the IceHogs. Hopes are 2019–20 can be a fresh start for Highmore, but he will need to earn a spot in Chicago, as there is a slew of other players who could very well beat him out for depth roster spots.

Matthew Highmore enters 2019–20 looking to rebound from his injury-shortened 2018–19 campaign. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Kevin Lankinen (4)

The undrafted free agent signing came over to play in North America for the first time in 2018–19, splitting time with Indy in the ECHL and Rockford in the AHL. While he posted decent numbers with the IceHogs (2.50 goals against average and a .910 save percentage in 19 games), Lankinen took the world by storm for his native Finland in the World Championships, backstopping the Finns to the gold medal with sparkling numbers of a 1.50 goals against average and a .942 save percentage. His efforts quickly caught the attention of many in the Blackhawks’ fanbase, but he needs to show that ability on a consistent basis for an extended period of time for our panel to place him in a higher tier. Lankinen is expected to return to Rockford for 2019–20, where he will get a chance to show if he is truly the lights-out goaltender he was at the World Championships or if his heroics were just a flash in the pan.

The 2019–20 season will give Kevin Lankinen an opportunity to show if his heroic performance at the 2019 World Championships was his true self or just a flash in the pan. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Niklas Nordgren (4)

The 2018 third-round pick of the Blackhawks is an intriguing prospect because of his ability to score. However, his size is a bit of a question mark, as is his skating, which will definitely need to be improved if he wants to translate his production to the game’s highest level. Unlike the majority of prospects in the system, Nordgren has been limited in his participation in prospect camp over the past two summers, as he was injured early in the 2018 camp before being an off-ice participant in 2019. Nordgren has split time between HIFK’s main Liiga men’s team and the organization’s U20 team over the last two seasons. The Helsinki native tallied 26 points in 28 games between the two teams in 2018–19 and will return to HIFK for 2019–20. Nordgren’s development will be worth keeping an eye on, as he could become a scoring threat in the NHL if he pans out.

Niklas Nordgren combined for 26 points in 28 games in the HIFK organization in 2018–19. (Photograph courtesy of AOP)

John Quenneville (4)

The cousin of longtime Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville, John was one of three prospects to receive an identical rating from each member of our panel. Acquired earlier this summer in exchange for John Hayden, Quenneville will enter camp looking to earn a full-time job in the NHL for the first time. The 2014 first-round pick of New Jersey played in 33 games for the Devils in his time with the organization, spending the majority of that time playing for the Albany Devils in the AHL. After racking up 39 points in 37 AHL games last season, Quenneville appears ready to take the next step, but might have a hard time grabbing a roster spot in Chicago. Regardless, Quenneville should be able to be a decent depth piece at the NHL level in the future.

John Quenneville joins the Blackhawks organization after being acquired from New Jersey this summer. (Photograph courtesy of Ed Mulholland / USA TODAY Sports

Michal Teply (4)

Teply will be another intriguing prospect to keep an eye on as his career progresses. Selected in the fourth round this June by the Blackhawks, the noted playmaker will come to North America to join the Winnipeg Ice for 2019–20 after being chosen fourth overall by the Ice in the CHL Import Draft. The Czech Republic product posted 21 points in various Czech leagues in 2018–19 before racking up six points in four playoff games for the Bili Tygri Liberec U19 team. Teply has been a mainstay on the Czech Republic’s international teams growing up, representing his country in various tournaments in each of the past three seasons. The big-bodied winger will need to work on his skating and adjust to the North American game, but, if he can do those things, seems like he can be a depth contributor in the NHL.

Michal Teply will head to North America for 2019–20 to play for the Winnipeg Ice. (Photograph courtesy of the IIHF)

Lucas Carlsson (4.167)

The 2016 fourth-rounder made the transition to North America in 2018–19, playing 69 games with Rockford and tallying 33 points, after a lengthy career in the Brynas organization in Sweden. While generally known to be an offensive defenseman, Carlsson is capable of holding his own in his own end. Of course, being part of an impressive blue line pipeline in the Chicago system, Carlsson might have a hard time cracking the Blackhawks’ lineup in the future. Multiple members of our panel believe he has the tools needed to be a regular depth defenseman in the NHL, but would likely only be able to realize that potential in a different organization. As one panelist noted, Carlsson feels a bit like Ville Pokka in the sense he might be too good for the AHL but never be able to make it in the NHL given the situation he is in. The Swede is expected to return to a stacked blue line in Rockford in 2019–20.

Lucas Carlsson posted 33 points for Rockford in 2018–19. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Tim Soderlund (4.167)

Soderlund’s skill set lends itself to a bottom-six role, which is likely what he would need to be in order to have an NHL career. While Soderlund has looked good at both ends in his time playing in Sweden’s SHL over the last three seasons, he has not stood out much at Chicago’s prospect camps since being selected in the fourth round in 2017, though that is not an end-all, be-all setting. Soderlund will join Rockford for 2019–20, where he will get his first taste of the North American game. Sometimes compared to fellow Swede Viktor Arvidsson, Blackhawks fans should be cautiously optimistic about Soderlund’s future. If he can translate his game to North America, he should have a chance to establish himself as a reliable depth player capable of chipping in offensively from time to time.

After spending his whole career in Sweden, Tim Soderlund will come to North America for the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of Ola Westerberg / Bildbyrån)

Alexandre Fortin (4.333)

Once the “golden boy” of the Blackhawks’ prospect camps, Fortin has a well-known story that has led him to the professional ranks. Unfortunately for Fortin, it sometimes seems like he just is not getting the opportunity he needs to establish himself at the NHL level. After struggling with injuries in his first professional season in 2017–18, the undrafted free agent signing split time between Chicago and Rockford in 2018–19, posting consistent numbers at both levels. Fortin tallied three goals and three assists in 24 games for the Blackhawks and doubled his totals in 47 games with the IceHogs. Fortin has speed to burn, but the rest of his game will need to catch up to his feet in order to put it all together. Though there is still time for Fortin to earn himself a regular NHL job, he might be passed over for other options as time progresses. Fortin is another player who may be better off starting fresh in another organization to get the most out of his career moving forward.

Alexandre Fortin will look to grab a full-time roster spot in Chicago in 2019–20. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Stay tuned as The-Rink progresses up the ladder in its Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers.

The post The-Rink’s Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers, part three appeared first on The Rink.

Our series continues today with tier five, defined as a prospect seen as a fringe forward, fringe defenseman or AHL goalie with a chance to play in the NHL.

As explained in the introduction piece, each eligible prospect in the system was rated by our staff panel before ultimately being debated to agree on a tier. Each prospect’s original rating average is listed in parentheses after their name, along with a brief synopsis of why they fell in the tier they did.

Players are listed in order of original rating average, with any ties being sorted alphabetically by last name.

Brandon Hagel (4.333)
The majority of our panel agreed Hagel would be a fringe NHL player who has the capabilities needed to contribute in a depth role, but one member felt Hagel’s upside could be as high as a middle-six role. The most valuable player of the Blackhawks’ development camp scrimmage possesses a variety of skills in his game, but will need to fine tune them to get to the next level. Hagel will likely spend the 2019–20 season with the Rockford IceHogs after a breakout 2018–19 campaign with the Red Deer Rebels.

Brandon Hagel played in eight games for the Rockford IceHogs at the end of the 2018–19 season after scoring 102 points with Red Deer in the Western Hockey League. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Antti Saarela (4.333)
The 2019 fourth-round pick will be a project, but showed flashes of his ability in development camp. The younger brother of fellow Blackhawk prospect Aleksi Saarela possesses a good shot, but will need to improve his skating to be effective in the NHL. Saarela will stay in Finland for the 2019–20 season, where he will join Ilves after spending his entire career thus far with Lukko.

Antti Saarela will join Ilves for the 2019–20 season after spending all of his career with Lukko in Finland. (Photograph courtesy of Lansi Suomi)

Dominic Basse (4.5)
Basse adds impressive size to the Blackhawks’ prospect pool in the blue paint, measuring 6-foot-6 at just 18 years of age. Basse dominated in 2018–19 for the Selects Hockey Academy 18U team, compiling a 1.91 goals against average and .924 save percentage in 42 games played. The Colorado College commit has not yet announced his plans on where he will play in 2019–20, but perhaps the most likely scenario would see him join the Youngstown Phantoms in the USHL, as the Phantoms hold his USHL rights. Basse will be an interesting project to keep an eye on in the future.

Dominic Basse provides the Blackhawks’ system with size at the goaltender position. (Photograph courtesy of Colorado College)

Artur Kayumov (4.5)
Kayumov is among the most polarizing prospects in the Blackhawks’ system. A skilled and passionate left winger, Kayumov has yet to break out in his time playing in the KHL in his native Russia, tallying just 13 points in 46 games for Lokomotiv Yaroslavl in 2018–19. Despite this, his skill set would likely allow him to be a contributor in the NHL, though this looks less and less likely with each passing season for the 2016 second-round pick. Kayumov will return to Lokomotiv Yaroslavl for 2019–20.

Artur Kayumov will stay in Russia for yet another season in 2019–20. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Blackhawks)

Josh Ess (4.667)
Ess has made strides since being selected in the seventh round in 2017. In his time since being drafted, Ess has established himself as a steady presence on Wisconsin’s blue line. The Minnesota native moves the puck well, but needs to keep working on his overall game to have a chance at playing in the NHL. Even if Ess can take the next step in his development with a big year for what is expected to be a potent Badger lineup in 2019–20, he would need to jump over a slew of other young defensemen in the system to don the Indian head down the road.

Josh Ess posted career-high totals of five goals, eight assists and 13 points as a sophomore at Wisconsin in 2018–19. (Photograph courtesy of the University of Wisconsin)

Jakub Galvas (4.833)
Galvas is known as a puck-moving defenseman, something the Blackhawks have plenty of in their system. Despite having others ahead of him on the organizational depth chart, Galvas could break through for NHL playing time if he rounds out his game. The 2017 fifth-rounder has become a mainstay on international tournament teams for his native Czech Republic, including a pair of appearances in the World Junior Championships. A longtime member of the HC Olomouc organization, Galvas will head to Finland to play for Jukurit for the next step of his development.

Jakub Galvas will leave the Czech Republic to play in Finland for the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of Miroslav Chaloupka / CTK Photo)

Mikael Hakkarainen (4.833)
Hakkarainen dominated the USHL last season, tallying 19 goals and 28 assists in 42 games with the Muskegon Lumberjacks after leaving Providence College following just one game at the beginning of the season. With little left to prove at the junior level, the 2018 fifth-rounder will turn pro to likely join the Rockford IceHogs for the 2019–20 season. At times, the Finn looks like he has a promising future in a depth role, but he will need to transfer his scoring ability at the junior level to the pro ranks—or adjust his style of play—in order to earn a regular NHL spot.

Mikael Hakkarainen will join the Rockford IceHogs for the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of Justin Berl / Getty Images)

Reese Johnson (4.833)
After spending the majority of the 2018–19 season as the captain for the Red Deer Rebels, Johnson finished the year in Rockford. Johnson improved his offensive numbers in his final year playing juniors, nearing a point-per-game pace with 27 goals and 26 assists in 67 games. The undrafted free agent signing then posted four assists in his six games with the IceHogs. Though Johnson finally started showing his offensive ability last season, he will likely be relied on as a more defensive forward should he make it to the NHL. Johnson will return to Rockford for the 2019–20 campaign.

Reese Johnson joined the Rockford IceHogs late in the 2018–19 season after playing for Red Deer of the Western Hockey League. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Cole Moberg (4.833)
The 2019 seventh-round pick broke out in a big way for a bad Prince George Cougars team in 2018–19, blowing away his previous career-high marks with 13 goals, 27 assists and 40 points. Our panel was relatively split on the 6-foot-3 defender, as some felt he could become a regular bottom-pairing option in the NHL down the road, while some feel it is too early in his development to project a ceiling of that nature. Moberg will return to the Cougars for 2019–20, where he will be relied upon as a leader on and off the ice for Prince George.

2019 seventh-round pick Cole Moberg was among the few bright spots for the Prince George Cougars in 2018–19. (Photograph courtesy of the Prince George Cougars)

Andrei Altybarmakyan (5.167)
Another wildcard within the Blackhawks’ system, Altybarmakyan boasts an impressive offensive skill set. However, the 2017 third-rounder has yet to put it together in the KHL, posting just six points in 38 games last season with HK Sochi. Of course, the Russian factor is also in effect here, as Altybarmakyan may very well never play in North America. Even if Altybarmakyan does play in North America, he would likely need to prove he can be somewhat reliable defensively to earn a chance at regular NHL ice time.

Andrei Altybarmakyan will stay in Russia for the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of the KHL)

Ivan Nalimov (5.167)
Another Russian with dwindling likelihood of playing in North America, Nalimov has been the ultimate hit-or-miss goaltender in the KHL. At times looking like a legitimate NHL goaltender while resembling a headcase piece of Swiss cheese at others, the 2014 sixth-round pick will enter his sixth KHL season in 2019–20 with his sixth team. While Nalimov has expressed an interest to come play in North America in the past, the Blackhawks have not reciprocated the desire. It appears likely at this point Nalimov will not have a future in the NHL unless his rights are dealt and another team gives him a chance.

Among the more intriguing prospects in the Blackhawks’ system, Ivan Nalimov will join his sixth team in the KHL for the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of Kunlun Redstar)

Joni Tuulola (5.167)
Tuulola played his first full season of North American hockey for the IceHogs in 2018–19, posting four goals and 10 assists in 52 games. The 2015 sixth-round selection has generally been a defense-first blueliner, but has shown an ability to chip in offensively as well. However, with as many offensive defensemen as the Blackhawks have in their system already, Tuulola will need to focus on being rock-solid in his own end if he wants a chance to play in the NHL. Tuulola will return to Rockford’s defensive core for the 2019–20 season.

Joni Tuulola will return to Rockford for 2019–20 after posting four goals and 10 assists for the IceHogs in 2018–19. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Stay tuned as The-Rink progresses up the ladder in its Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers.

The post The-Rink’s Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers, part two appeared first on The Rink.

Our series kicks off today with tier six, defined as a prospect seen as an organizational depth player or goalie with little to no chance to play in the NHL.

As explained in the introduction piece, each eligible prospect in the system was rated by our staff panel before ultimately being debated to agree on a tier. Each prospect’s original rating average is listed in parentheses after their name, along with a brief synopsis of why they fell in the tier they did.

Players are listed in order of original rating average, with any ties being sorted alphabetically by last name.

Mathias From (5.333)
To some, From feels like he could be a fourth-liner in the NHL. Others believe he will never even set foot on professional North American ice. From has shown skill in the Blackhawks’ development camps he has attended, but not enough to put himself in a higher tier. A fifth-round pick in 2016, From tallied 16 points in 45 games last season with AIK in Sweden. The Denmark native will join Blackhawks 2014 fourth-round pick Fredrik Olofsson on MODO for the 2019–20 season.

Mathias From scored 16 points in 45 games for AIK last season. (Photograph courtesy of Sportbibeln)

Roope Laavainen (5.333)
Laavainen is an intriguing piece within the prospect pool because the organization seems to think he can be a player moving forward. While one member of our panel felt similarly, thinking Laavainen could be a bottom-pairing NHL defenseman in the future, the majority did not see anything to justify a spot on a higher tier. The 2017 fourth-rounder will return to play with HPK in Finland this season.

Roope Laavainen will return to play for HPK in Finland this season. (Photograph courtesy of Jukka Rautio/Kuva Europhoto)

Ryan Shea (5.333)
The 2015 fourth-rounder has been a steady presence for Northeastern University in his three seasons with the Huskies, the first two of which he played with Dylan Sikura. Shea will return to Northeastern for his senior season, where he will captain the Huskies. Should the Blackhawks choose to sign Shea in the future, he would likely have to jump a number of other young defensemen in the system for a shot at playing in the NHL.

Ryan Shea will captain Northeastern University this season. (Photograph courtesy of Northeastern University)

Parker Foo (5.5)
The Blackhawks are likely hoping Foo can follow in the footsteps of his older brother, Spencer, in becoming a good-looking prospect who had success at the collegiate level, but until further notice, the 2017 fifth-rounder might have nothing more than a future in the minor leagues. Foo will return to Union College this fall for his junior season after posting 15 points in 35 games as a sophomore with the Dutchmen.

Parker Foo will return to Union College for his junior season with the Dutchmen. (Photograph courtesy of Robert Morris University)

Jake Ryczek (5.5)
Ryczek will turn pro this season after spending two years playing for the Halifax Mooseheads in the QMJHL. While he could still develop into a serviceable player, 2019 first-round pick Kirby Dach did nothing to help Ryczek’s cause at this year’s development camp, making the 2016 seventh-rounder look more like a pylon than a future NHL defenseman. Ryczek would also have to jump over a glut of other young defensemen to get his shot at the NHL level, which seems unlikely.

Jake Ryczek will turn pro this season after spending two years with the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL. (Photograph courtesy of Katie Whitty)

Nathan Noel (5.667)
A fourth-round pick in 2016, Noel has struggled to put up numbers since turning pro in 2017, scoring just seven goals and adding 11 assists in 84 games split between the Rockford IceHogs and Indy Fuel. At this point, Noel, who struggled to stay healthy last season, will likely be nothing more than a depth player in the minors.

Nathan Noel will enter his third professional season with the Blackhawks’ organization this fall. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Graham Knott (5.833)
Needless to say, Knott looks to be among the biggest disappointments in the Blackhawks’ prospect pool since Kyle Beach. Originally a second-round pick in 2015, Knott has scored just eight goals in 126 professional games over two seasons with the Rockford IceHogs. Short of a miraculous turnaround, it would be safe to write off any chance of Knott making it to the NHL moving forward.

Graham Knott posted four goals and nine assists last season with the Rockford IceHogs. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Stay tuned as The-Rink progresses up the ladder in its prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers.

The post The-Rink’s Blackhawks prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers, part one appeared first on The Rink.

After another season of hockey, the 2019 NHL Entry Draft and July’s development camp for the Blackhawks, The-Rink has assessed where each prospect in the system stands in terms of their ability to make an impact moving forward.

Many outlets piece together a prospect rankings list to show who may be next in line for NHL stardom. However, The-Rink believes a mere rankings list proves inadequate of truly judging a prospect’s ability to make a mark at the game’s highest level. As such, The-Rink has developed a system of placing prospects into tiers based on their potential.

To be clear, this project has been a group effort. Six of The-Rink’s staff members most in tune with prospects—Eric Andrews, Aaron Goldschmidt, Ron Luce, Ray Napientek, Juliana Nikac and Mario Tirabassi—poured many hours of thought, discussion and compromise into the development of the tiers.

The process began with determining which players would be eligible. After some debate, The-Rink settled on skaters 24 and under with 40 or less NHL games played and goaltenders with 10 or less NHL games played.

From there, tiers needed to be established to place the eligible prospects in. Again, after some debate, The-Rink decided on six different tiers, ranging from high-end NHL players to minor league depth players. The complete list of tiers is as follows:

Tier one = First-line forward, top-pairing defenseman, elite goalie

Tier two = Top-six forward, No. 2 or 3 defenseman, starting goalie

Tier three = Middle-six forward, second-pairing defenseman, backup goalie

Tier four = Bottom-six forward, third-pairing defenseman, fringe goalie

Tier five = Fringe forward, fringe defenseman, AHL goalie with a chance to play in the NHL

Tier six = Organizational depth player or goalie with little to no chance to play in the NHL

The six staff members involved in the project then placed the prospects into the tiers they felt were most appropriate. Of course, each staffer’s ratings varied, resulting in the necessity to debate where players belonged. In fact, just three players received an identical rating from each of the six staffers involved—those players will be denoted when their tier is released. The final tiers reflect the agreed-upon consensus following a debate about each player.

In the coming weeks, The-Rink will be unveiling its prospect tiers along with a brief synopsis of each player and why they fell into the tier they did, starting with tier six and building up to tier one.

Stay tuned to see how each prospect fared in The-Rink’s prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers.

The post Introducing The-Rink’s prospect pyramid: Blood, sweat and tiers appeared first on The Rink.

Our panel weighs in:

Jeff Osborn:

Stan Bowman went a little off the script and picked the big center from Saskatoon. Dach is big, has great hands, and very good (but not top) speed for his size. He projects as a Ryan Getzlaf type of player, which is definitely something they could use. They immediately get a rare combination of size and creativity up the middle, behind Dylan Strome and Jonathan Toews. He could very well be the number one center of the future and has a pretty good mentor to show him the ropes. The Blackhawks picked from an area of need rather than best player available

The downside of this kid is that he is not quite as talented as maybe Turcotte or Byram. I feel like Bowman bought into the mock draft hype and maybe made an emotional pick. This pick will define Stan Bowman’s legacy in Chicago. He might not be as responsible in his own end as some might like just yet. When he does make it to the NHL, it also might be on the wing rather than his natural position. He said in his interviews that he feel like he’s able to make the jump to the NHL this fall, and he has a better shot than Byram might have.

Juliana Nikac:

There’s a significant amount of upside to Kirby Dach’s game. He’s one of those rare players who skates exceptionally well for his size (6-foot-4, 200 pounds) and doesn’t look awkward while accelerating. He has fantastic edge work and mobility that allows him to maneuver anywhere on the ice and protect the puck easily. Dach’s size also provides him with the ability to be physical when he has the puck, shouldering off defenders much like Rick Nash in his prime. He’s also reliable defensively, playing heavy minutes every game and often finding himself on the penalty kill utilizing his great backcheck.

The one downside of Dach’s game is that he doesn’t use his size effectively as he could. His lack of physicality is very visible during games and teams know this and target him, taking him out of plays and battles he should win more often than not. But the good news is that he’s already improved on this area of his game.

It’s clear Dach projects to be a good NHL center, but it’s difficult to determine what his ceiling is. If he can play a similar style to Nash, I think the Blackhawks will be happy and fans should be, too. But don’t expect Dach to be an elite player, because he probably will not reach that level when he’s finished developing. He’ll be in the tier below that, though, and that’s what makes him a valuable

John Jaeckel:

Love the pick.

Stan Bowman head-faked the entire fanbase and took a center—just not the hometown player. everyone expected.  Still Hawk fans are going to love every inch of 6’4” Kirby Dach, who possesses the hands and moves of much smaller players—in a big body that may allow him to be a dominant physical force in the league, as well as a reliable scorer.

He has a dazzling array of shots, and that unique ability and quick soft hands to roof a puck in tight on a goalie. He also is an incredibly graceful, agile skater. Thinks the game at a high level and exhibits a 200-foot awareness that will support him as a center in the NHL. Think of all the big, skilled centers the Hawks face in the Central. Stan Bowman went for the move that favors the Hawks matching up to win playoff series.

He’ll likely be a center, and once he grows into his large frame, he should be a complete power centerman with elite skill.

Kudos to Stan Bowman, he filled a glaring team need and resisted the pressure to grab the smaller center with Chicago “roots.”

Ray Napientek

Upside: At 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, Dach has the size and skill that the Chicago organization is lacking at the forward position pipeline. Dach plays a smart game. He can use his linemates with excellent vision or beat you with his physical play in front of the net and use his reach to hold off defenders, much like Jonathan Toews can. His shot is strong and crazy accurate. For his size, Dach is a fine skater that plays well on his edges and can make players miss.

Downside: This is not a sexy pick in Chicago. Until late, Dach was not a name on many Blackhawks “experts” picks. Stan Bowman would have to keep his fingers crossed that Bowen Byram and Alex Turcotte do not turn into legends. John McDonough would also make sure to let everyone know he could have sold millions of local boy Turcotte jerseys.

Summary: Dach has the size and strength to maybe squeeze into the NHL next season. That would help Bowman but should not be expected. Bowman still needs to find forwards that will play in their own end and kill penalties.

Ron Luce

Upside: Have you ever heard about size in the NHL? How about speed? Willingness to go to the net? All of those things describe what Kirby Dach was in the WHL this past season. The 6’4” pivot had a nice season with the Blades in the WHL. He was better than a point per game and all of his goals, if you watch his highlights, were in deep slot. Dach showed he can go into the “high traffic areas” and make things happen, something that this Blackhawks team desperately needs.

Downside: Dach may be a bit of a reach at number three. He is a very nice player, and the size is incredibly appealing, but he never scored more than 25 goals in the WHL. That said, Joe Thornton was never a huge goal scorer but knew how to set everyone else up for success. If Dach can become that type of player, this is certainly a win. Outside of that, the only concerns for Dach are can he use his size effectively in the NHL? If he can, he will be a forced to be reckoned with, if he cannot, then we may see the second coming of a great bust for a number three pick.

How this affects the team’s plans: Much like any player in this draft besides Hughes and Kakko, teams have to wonder are these kids ready for the NHL this year? If Dach indeed needs another year in the WHL, which is completely possible and highly likely, then the Blackhawks still need another centre to round out the Toews, Strome, Kampf group. Without another centre, the lines will be a bit shaky. Sure, Anisimov could fill that void, but I anticipate AA being moved after July 1st.

What do you think? Join the discussion and comment below.

The post Instant Reaction Roundtable: Blackhawks select Kirby Dach appeared first on The Rink.

Tenth in the series of prospect profiles is winger Kappo Kakko.

Kaapo Kakko
2018–19 Team: TPS, Liiga
Date of Birth: February 13, 2001
Place of Birth: Turku, Finland
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 190 pounds
Shoots: Left
Position: Winger
NHL Central Scouting final ranking: #1, European skaters
NHL comparable: Peter Forsberg

In this draft, there are two players who have established themselves in an echelon above the rest of the class. It doesn’t mean that players after the top two won’t be good, or potentially great, NHL players. It means that these two are essentially “can’t miss” prospects for the teams lucky enough to pick in the top two. Kaapo Kakko is one of those two top players this year.

Kakko is an effortless, yet powerful skater, almost appearing to glide at high speed all over the ice. The young Finn can pass the puck with precision, but his real weapon is his shot. His shot is not the hardest you’re going to see, but it is very deceptive coming off his stick. Kakko’s lightning fast release allows him to freeze goaltenders as he weaves his way into open shooting areas all over the offensive zone.

The most impressive part about Kakko’s play may be his skating and ability to always find open ice. Blackhawks fans are used to Alex DeBrincat’s abilities in these regards, but Kakko takes it to an entirely new level. He can outstate anyone trying to cover him, determine the correct play—whether that be a pass or a quick wrist shot—and more often than not, good things happen.

Kaapo Kakko is the ultimate playmaker on the ice for any team he plays for. It’s safe to say he may the most NHL-ready prospect in this draft, even more than Jack Hughes. Hughes will need to put on some weight and develop a tad more physically, where Kakko has the size to compete at a high level in the show. Kakko has shown “man-like” power moves in international play that suggest a relatively easy translation of his skills to the NHL.

The only question that may be raised as an argument against Kakko’s immediate impact in the NHL is playing on European ice. The larger European ice sheet more time and space to create space plays. However, with the way the game is going as a speed first game, there is little doubt Kakko can be an immediate force for his new club come October.

 Projection

Top line winger.

At 18 years of age, Kakko is fairly matured physically and has all of the necessary skills to be a force in the NHL.

He could be an immediate impact player in the NHL. Scouts have cited Kakko as being “near-impossible to push off the puck.”

The only question that may arise, as stated before, is how quickly can Kakko translate his game “thinking” and reactions to the smaller NHL ice sheet? If it is a quick transition, Kakko may win the Calder Trophy in June 2020.

Implications for the Blackhawks

Near-impossible.

While Hughes is in all likelihood headed to New Jersey with the first overall selection Friday night, there have been rumors that the New York Rangers might pass on Kakko and take Bowen Byram second. If so, you could pretty much count on seeing Stan Bowman and the Hawk brass vault to the stage in record time and claim Kakko as their prize. Will it happen? Unlikely. But no one foresaw Adam Boqvist falling to the Hawks at 8th overall last year either.

Kakko is both a player who can step in right now and provide immediate help on offense, while also setting up the future as a player who can be a part of the organization for the next 15 years. As Stan Bowman was quoted saying during the latest “On The Lock: Season 3” episode, the Blackhawks want a player who is going to be an important part of the organization 15 years from now, not just a guy who can come up and make an immediate impact. That said, Kakko fits both of those descriptions.

However, it is almost 99% certain to think that Kappo Kakko is wearing Rangers’ blue this fall in the Big Apple.

What others are saying

“..quality hands.. able to keep the puck under control when physically challenged.. works in all areas to help his team get possession.”

–Draftin Europe 2018

The post Draft prospect profile: winger Kaapo Kakko appeared first on The Rink.

7 p.m. CST
Bridgestone Arena
TV/Radio: NBCSCH/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Cam Ward (16–11–4, save percentage: .896, goals against average: 3.68)
Nashville – Pekka Rinne (29–19–4, save percentage: .917, goals against average: 2.43)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (20.3 percent, 15th)
Nashville (12.7 percent, 31st)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (72.8 percent, 31st)
Nashville (81.9 percent, Seventh)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.5, 11th; 34.6, 30th)
Nashville (32.4, 12th; 30.0, 9th)

Shooting Percentage
Chicago (10.1 percent, Seventh)
Nashville (8.8 percent, 21st)

Faceoff Percentage
Chicago (49.4 percent, T-20th)
Nashville (51.6 percent, Fifth)

Average height and weight
Chicago 6-foot-1, 197 pounds
Nashville 6-foot-1, 199 pounds

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Drake Caggiula–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane

Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Brendan Perlini

Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dominik Kahun

Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–John Hayden

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Slater Koekkoek–Connor Murphy

Nashville Predators

Filip Forsberg–Ryan Johansen–Viktor Arvidsson

Mikael Granlund–Kyle Turris–Craig Smith

Colton Sissons–Nick Bonino–Austin Watson

Brian Boyle–Calle Jarnkrok–Wayne Simmonds

Roman Josi–Ryan Ellis

Mattias Ekholm–P.K. Subban

Dan Hamhuis–Dante Fabbro

Analysis

The Blackhawks put a damper on the Stars’ chances of maintaining the first wild card position Friday night. If the Stars fail to capture at least one point and the Avalanche win, the Avalanche will move into the first wild card position and face the winner of the Central Division. The other will face the Calgary Flames in the opening round of the playoffs.

Tonight presents another big game for a Blackhawks opponent. The Blues’ matchup against the Blackhawks could have tied them for first place. Last night’s game could have captured the top wild card spot for Dallas, and now tonight, a Predators’ win would capture the Central Division. A title would mean the raising of another banner to the rafters of Bridgestone Arena to join their existing “Regular Season Champions” banner.

The Blackhawks will have Ward starting in net this evening with Kevin Lankinen backing him up in Nashville. Corey Crawford did not travel with the team after leaving last night’s game with a groin injury. It’s unlikely that we see Lankinen make his NHL debut tonight, but with his call up, it allows Collin Delia and Anton Forsberg to help Rockford push toward the playoffs in these final, very meaningful, games.

A Predators win tonight clinches the Central Division title. A Predators loss, and this division can be captured by any one of the Predators, Blues or Jets depending on Saturday’s outcomes.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks at Predators appeared first on The Rink.

7:30 p.m. CST
United Center
TV/Radio: NBCSCH/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (14–18–5, save percentage: .907, goals against average: 2.96)
Dallas – Anton Khudobin (16–16–5, save percentage: .926, goals against average: 2.47)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (20.5 percent, 12th)
Dallas (20.5 percent, 14th)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (73.1 percent, 31st)
Dallas (82.4 percent, Fifth)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.6, 11th; 34.6, 30th)
Dallas (30.5, 21st; 31.7, 18th)

Shooting Percentage
Chicago (9.9 percent, Ninth)
Dallas (8.4 percent, 28th)

Faceoff Percentage
Chicago (49.4 percent, T-20th)
Dallas (51.9 percent, Fourth)

Average height and weight
Chicago 6’1”, 197 lbs.
Dallas 6’2”, 207 lbs.

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Drake Caggiula–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane

Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Brendan Perlini

Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dominik Kahun

Chris Kunitz–Marcus Kruger–John Hayden

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Carl Dahlstrom–Connor Murphy

Dallas Stars

Jason Dickinson–Tyler Seguin–Alexander Radulov

Jamie Benn–Roope Hintz–Mats Zuccarello

Andrew Cogliano–Radek Faksa–Blake Comeau

Mattias Janmark–Jason Spezza–Tyler Pitlick

Esa Lindell–John Klingberg

Miro Heiskanen–Roman Polak

Taylor Fedun–Ben Lovejoy

Analysis

Coming off their 4—3 victory against the St. Louis Blues on Wednesday night, the Blackhawks look to continue playing the role of spoiler as they welcome the Dallas Stars to the United Center.

The Stars enter play on Friday firmly cemented in one of the two wild card positions in the West. The Stars can’t move up, but they can certainly fall to the second wild card spot if the Colorado Avalanche continue to collect points.

The Blackhawks can play spoiler and aid in setting the Stars up to play the top seed in the Western Conference, the Calgary Flames. A tough matchup such as this one could spell a quick end to the Stars’ playoff run.

At this point, this game is essentially meaningless for the Blackhawks. They are too high in the standings to get a lottery pick (unless they luck out), so they will probably pick somewhere between 10 and 15.

That said, a team with nothing to lose is a dangerous team. The Stars need to be cautious on Friday night, otherwise, they could fall into the second wild card spot and be set for a date with the talented Calgary Flames, who may be the most complete team in the Western Conference.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks vs. Stars appeared first on The Rink.

Prior to the game, the Esposito brothers were honored together for “One More Shift” in a Blackhawks sweater. There is no doubt the moment had to be special for the brothers, players and fans alike, as these two greats, and Top 100 players of all time, were honored before Wednesday’s clash.

Dylan Sikura was sent down to the Rockford on Tuesday. In return, the Blackhawks recalled defenseman Dennis Gilbert for his NHL debut. The lines returned to similar form, with a few exceptions. They were as follows:

Drake Caggiula – Jonathan Toews – Patrick Kane

Alex DeBrincat – Dylan Strome – Brendan Perlini

Brandon Saad – Artem Anisimov – Dominik Kahun

Chris Kunitz – Marcus Kruger – John Hayden

Duncan Keith – Erik Gustafsson

Carl Dahlstrom – Brent Seabrook

Dennis Gilbert – Connor Murphy

Cam Ward

David Kampf is injured with a facial injury and both Gustav Forsling and Slater Koekkoek were healthy scratches on Wednesday night.

First period:

The first period began in pretty quiet fashion for both teams. The early portion of the frame was highlighted by sloppy plays and poor shot attempts. Neither team was able to generate much through the first 10 minutes.

After a slow first half of the period, the Blues found themselves with a golden opportunity to take the lead. With eight minutes left in the stanza, youngster Robert Thomas was sprung on a breakaway. Ward denied the bid and kept the visitors off the board.

With under four minutes remaining in the period, the Blackhawks’ top line created a quality opportunity. Toews carried the puck up the ice and found Kane at the offensive face-off dots in the Blues’ zone. Kane fired what looked like a shot on net that was tipped intentionally by the captain, giving the Blackhawks a 1–0 lead late in the first period.

Captain Jonathan Toews tallied his 35th goal of the season tonight to establish a new career-high!

He tops the 34 he scored in 2008-09. #OCAPTAIN pic.twitter.com/MOabJSamQW

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 4, 2019

Not much else happened early, and the Blackhawks took their 1–0 lead into the first intermission against the red-hot Blues.

Second period:

The second period did not begin well for the home team. Gustafsson let a puck get by him on a pinch attempt and sprung Vladimir Tarasenko and Ryan O’Reilly on a two-on-one against Keith. Tarasenko elected to shoot from the left wing side and buried a beautiful wrist shot to tie the game at 1–1.

26 seconds through the 2nd period and Vladimir Tarasenko makes it a 1-1 game. pic.twitter.com/JXrZu19HSS

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) April 4, 2019

A few minutes later, the Blues nearly struck again. This time, the Blues were short handed when Oskar Sundqvist found himself on a breakaway against Ward. Ward made a beautiful save on the play, just getting enough of the puck for it to hit the crossbar and harmlessly float to the corner.

With just under seven minutes remaining in the middle frame, Saad made a great play in his own zone to poke the puck away from David Perron. Saad started the two-on-two up ice with Kahun and Saad quickly passed the puck to his fellow winger.

Saad crashed the net, along with Anisimov, while Kahun pulled up just over the blue line. Kahun skated to the middle of the ice and fired a wrist shot at the net. Anisimov, on a fly by in front of Jake Allen, tipped the puck past Allen and gave the Blackhawks the 2–1 lead.

Anisimov! #Blackhawks take a 2-1 lead in the 2nd period! pic.twitter.com/x3tdRTO4ln

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) April 4, 2019

A late power play for the Blackhawks would not amount to anything and teams entered the second intermission with the score still 2–1.

Third period:

The early portion of the third period was similar to that of the first, neither team could generate any meaningful offense. With about eight and a half minutes remaining, the Blackhawks started up ice as the forwards went to change.

Strome was all alone on the left wing side of the ice in his own zone. Strome was able to find Kane, who bolted ahead after coming off the bench, for a breakaway from the blue line in. Kane used his dynamic speed and roofed a perfect backhand shot to give the Blackhawks a 3–1 lead. Initially, the referees were unsure if the puck entered the net due to how fast it came out of the net. However, after review, the goal was good and Kane recorded his 42nd goal and career-high 107th point.

Patrick Kane snaps a 10 game goal drought AND sets a new career high in points with 107 pic.twitter.com/9UyoiviTbq

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) April 4, 2019

The celebration would not last. On the next shift, primary assist getter Dylan Strome was sent to the penalty box, giving the visitors life on the power play. Less than a minute after Kane’s goal, Perron beat Ward blocker side to cut the deficit to just one at 3–2.

A power play goal for the Blues!

Don't go to sleep yet folks, we've got a lot of game left to play! Watch: https://t.co/w77aqOnokG pic.twitter.com/Rknk3kJNqu

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) April 4, 2019

The Blackhawks were able to fend off the Blues for the bulk of the third period. As time dwindled down, Allen was pulled for the extra attacker. Kane missed wide on an open-net chance, sending St. Louis back into the Chicago zone.

The Blues’ third line gave the team new life. Patrick Maroon carried the puck in on the left wing boards with just over 40 seconds remaining. He fired a pass backdoor to a crashing and wide open Tyler Bozak to even the game at 3–3. Bozak was all alone in the blue paint and stuffed the puck past Ward to send the game to overtime.

TYLER BOZAK IN THE LAST SECONDS OF THE GAME! CLUTCH!#STLBlues pic.twitter.com/0SjcO1EhI4

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights & News (@HockeyDaily365) April 4, 2019

Overtime:

The overtime period would not amount to much for either team. Both teams had notable chances, but neither side could capitalize in the five-minute, three-on-three frame.

The best chance of overtime came from Saad. As his linemates changed, Saad carried the puck in, one-on-one, against St. Louis forward Brayden Schenn. Saad made a move to freeze Schenn and created an open chance from the face-off dot in. The power forward brought the puck nicely to his backhand, but was denied by Allen to ultimately send the game to a shootout.

Shootout:

Toews and the Blackhawks elected to go first in the shootout and the captain did not disappoint. Toews skated off to Allen’s left, back to the middle and gave a quick backhand-forehand combination before burying a shot high past Allen’s blocker. Chicago took a quick 1–0 lead in the shootout.

Let's take another look at Jonny's sensational shootout winner, shall we?!#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/PRtJsbGPPz

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 4, 2019

Toews’ goal was ultimately the only tally in the “fifth period”. Kane struck iron and DeBrincat beat Allen but could not elevate the backhand shot. Fortunately, Ward stopped all three St. Louis shooters to preserve the 4–3 Blackhawks victory in the shootout.

Quick hits:

• Hey kid, welcome to the show: Gilbert made his NHL debut on Wednesday night against the Blues. The former Notre Dame defenseman has played well for the IceHogs all season, being paired with Henri Jokiharju often as Rockford’s top pairing. With the Blackhawks officially out of the playoff race, it makes sense to give some of their young defenseman a look. The Hawks have a logjam of players on the back end, so sorting out the good from the bad is necessary to clear roster spots if they want young players to come up and contribute.
• Kane’s career high: After scoring his 42nd goal on Wednesday, Kane set a new career high in points for a season with 107. The 30-year-old winger has been sensational all season. Had the Blackhawks made the playoffs, a strong case could have been made for Kane as league MVP. In deciding which player was truly most important to their team, there is no doubt Kane has a better case than Tampa Bay’s Nikita Kucherov and possibly Edmonton’s Connor McDavid for the award. Nonetheless, Kane looks ageless at this point, and a strong offseason by General Manager Stan Bowman and the rest of the front office could position this team for one more run with Kane and Toews in their primes.
• Saad is worth $6 million: Saad receives a lot of hate from the Blackhawks fan base, claiming he is not worth his contract. However, the 26-year-old has 46 points (23 goals, 23 assists) and plays an excellent two-way game. Wednesday night’s game is a prime example of that. Saad was all over the ice making plays at both ends for the Blackhawks. He may not be a 70-point player, but Saad is worth every penny of his contract. If the forward group does not have to babysit the defensemen next year on defense, as they have done so heavily this season, we could easily see Saad erupt for a 30-goal, 30-assist season while still playing that relentless two-way game.

The Blackhawks remain in Chicago after Wednesday’s game, waiting to welcome the Dallas Stars to town on Friday. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks defeat the Blues 4–3 in the shootout appeared first on The Rink.

7 p.m. CST
United Center
TV/Radio: NBCSN/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (14–18–5, save percentage: .907, goals against average: 2.96)
St. Louis – Jordan Binnington (22–5–1, save percentage: .928, goals against average: 1.85)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (20.7 percent, 11th)
St. Louis (20.3 percent, 15th)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (73.2 percent, 31st)
St. Louis (81.6 percent, Ninth)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.5, 12th; 34.5, 30th)
St. Louis (31.6, 15th; 28.5, Fourth)

Shooting Percentage
Chicago (10.0 percent, Eighth)
St. Louis (9.3 percent, 18th)

Faceoff Percentage
Chicago (49.4 percent, T-20th)
St. Louis (51.4 percent, Sixth)

Average height and weight
Chicago 6’1”, 197 lbs.
St. Louis 6’2”, 203 lbs.

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Drake Caggiula–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane

Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Brendan Perlini

Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dominik Kahun

Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–Marcus Kruger

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Carl Dahlstrom–Connor Murphy

St. Louis Blues

Brayden Schenn–Ryan O’Reilly–Vladimir Tarasenko

Jaden Schwartz–Oskar Sundqvist–David Perron

Pat Maroon–Tyler Bozak–Robert Thomas

Zachary Sanford–Ivan Barbashev–Alex Steen

Vince Dunn–Alex Pietrangelo

Jay Bouwmeester–Colton Parayko

Carl Gunnarsson–Robert Bortuzzo

Analysis

“Technically still alive.” That was the expression fans everywhere were using to describe the Blackhawks’ playoff chances. However, on Tuesday night, the Colorado Avalanche took care of business and officially eliminated both the Minnesota Wild and Chicago Blackhawks from playoff contention. The season is officially over for the Blackhawks.

On Tuesday, Dylan Sikura was sent back to Rockford to try and help them save their season by sneaking into the AHL playoffs. After being down 2–0 early in the game, the IceHogs pulled off the big win over the San Antonio Rampage with a 5–3 victory. Dylan Sikura and William Pelletier both scored two goals in the win.

This morning, defenseman Dennis Gilbert was recalled from Rockford and will potentially get a look in the last three games.

The baby Blackhawks are still alive. However, the Blackhawks front office now turns to the draft in June. This offseason is a huge opportunity for the Blackhawks to improve either via trade or free agency. The fan base will find out how this team is trending based on the moves made this offseason.

Although the Blackhawks’ playoff hopes are dead, they can still play spoiler to two of their division rivals in these last three games. Tonight, the St. Louis Blues will be in a three-way tie for first if they capture a win. The Blackhawks can force the Blues into a “visitor’s position” in the playoff bracket and give the Predators (who they will face on Saturday) an advantage with home ice in the first round.

The Blues are still very hot heading into the playoffs. They have won six of their last seven games, with their only loss coming to the New York Rangers last weekend. This team is arguably one of the deepest teams in the league with an incredible defense and a surprising star in net. The Blues have everything it takes for a quality playoff run.

The Blues have been quite a surprise. As of late January, this team was last in the NHL. Now, this team is destined for one of the top five or six records in the league. Credit is due to Craig Berube behind the bench and Jordan Binnington in net. Binnington leads the NHL in numerous categories for qualifying goaltenders and is arguably the leading candidate for rookie of the year. There are some great rookies who will be favored over Binnington in voting, but it is undeniable the impact he has had since being called up earlier this season.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks vs. Blues appeared first on The Rink.

7:30 p.m. CST

STAPLES Center

TV/Radio: WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (14–18–4, save percentage: .908, goals against average: 2.94)

Winnipeg – Connor Hellebuyck (32–23–2, save percentage: .913, goals against average: 2.92)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power play

Chicago (20.5 percent, 12th)

Winnipeg (25.5 percent, Fourth)

Penalty kill

Chicago (72.7 percent, 31st)

Winnipeg (79.0 percent, 23rd)

Shots for/against

Chicago (32.5, 11th; 34.5, 30th)

Winnipeg (31.0, 19th; 33.7, 29th)

Shooting percentage

Chicago (10.0 percent, Ninth)

Winnipeg (10.7 percent, Fourth)

Faceoff percentage

Chicago (49.4 percent, T-20th)

Winnipeg (50.7 percent, 11th)

Average height and weight

Chicago 6’1”, 195 lbs.

Winnipeg 6’2”, 201 lbs.

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Brandon Saad–Jonathan Toews–Dylan Sikura

Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Dominik Kahun

Drake Caggiula–Artem Anisimov–Patrick Kane

Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–Marcus Kruger

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Slater Koekkoek–Connor Murphy

Winnipeg Jets

Nikolaj Ehlers–Mark Scheifele–Blake Wheeler

Kyle Connor–Kevin Hayes–Patrik Laine

Brandon Tanev–Adam Lowry–Bryan Little

Matt Hendricks–Andrew Copp–Mathieu Perreault

Nathan Beaulieu–Jacob Trouba

Dmitry Kulikov–Tyler Myers

Ben Chiarot–Sami Niku

Analysis

The Blackhawks’ playoff hopes have all but come to an end. The last few games now continue the tryout for spots on next year’s roster. Notables that will continue auditioning for positions include Brendan Perlini, Slater Koekkoek and John Hayden (assuming Hayden ever gets into a game).

The concerns for this team were put on display in Saturday night’s loss to the Los Angeles Kings. Defensemen being out of position was the highlight of the loss. It is clear what the primary need for this team in the offseason is.

The remaining schedule for the Blackhawks consists of four division rivals. Three home games against the Winnipeg Jets, St. Louis Blues and Dallas Stars, followed by the season finale at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. If these remaining games are good for anything, it will be to measure where they stand against the playoff-qualifying Central Division teams.

The Jets are in a tie with the Nashville Predators at the top of the Central Division, with the Blues only two points back of both teams. The next week of play for the Jets will determine whether or not they earn a Central Division title or if they fall into a spot against either the Blues or Predators.

Although still a good team, the Jets have cooled off since their early season tear. This is a chance for the Blackhawks to play spoiler against the Jets. Winnipeg is arguably the most complete team in the division, however, the Blackhawks have a golden opportunity to take the Jets down a notch in the standings with a win on Monday evening.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks vs Jets appeared first on The Rink.

9:30 p.m. CST
STAPLES Center
TV/Radio: NBCSCH/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (14–18–3, SV%: .908, GAA: 2.94)
Los Angeles – Jonathan Quick (15–22–7, SV%: .890, GAA: 3.31)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (20.8 percent, T-11th)
Los Angeles (16.0 percent, 27th)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (72.8 percent, 31st)
Los Angeles (75.1 percent, 29th)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.5, 12th; 34.6, 30th)
Los Angeles (28.6, 30th; 31.2, 14th)

Shooting Percentage
Chicago (10.0 percent, Eighth)
Los Angeles (8.4 percent, 28th)

Faceoff Percentage
Chicago (49.5 percent, T-20th)
Los Angeles (50.5 percent, 12th)

Average height and weight
Chicago 6’1”, 195 lbs.
Los Angeles 6’1”, 206 lbs.

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks
Brandon Saad–Jonathan Toews–Dylan Sikura
Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Dominik Kahun
Brendan Perlini–Artem Anisimov–Patrick Kane
Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–Marcus Kruger
Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson
Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook
Slater Koekkoek–Connor Murphy

Los Angeles Kings
Alex Iafallo–Anze Kopitar–Dustin Brown
Carl Grundstrom–Adrian Kempe–Tyler Toffoli
Kyle Clifford–Jeff Carter–Trevor Lewis
Austin Wagner–Mike Amadio–Jonny Brodzinski
Derek Forbort–Drew Doughty
Alec Martinez–Matt Roy
Sean Walker–Dion Phaneuf

Analysis

The Blackhawks playoff hopes are ever-dwindling as the season enters it’s twilight. The Blackhawks sit seven points out of a playoff position. Although not mathematically eliminated, the Blackhawks would need to win every game from here on out, and hope that the Avalanche, Wild and Coyotes all hit a late season skid. It’s not impossible, but it’s very unlikely that the Blackhawks will be playing in the postseason.

However, the Blackhawks will continue to play with that mindset, and try to win every game down the stretch. The final week of the season begins tonight as the Blackhawks visit the lowly Kings.

The Kings, who sit last in the Western Conference, may be without notable winger Ilya Kovalchuk. Kovalchuk is not hurt, he has been a healthy scratch in many recent games for the Kings. The former-star winger has had a tough first season of his three-year, $18.75 million contract.

The Kings focus as an organization is more likely focused on the NHL Entry Draft in June than the 78th game of a disastrous season for the team. Jack Hughes or Kappo Kakko would be welcomed additions to the Kings lineup. Odds are, the Kings will get a top two pick with their second-to-last record in the entire NHL.

Just because the Kings front office may have switched their focus, the players surely have not. This is the perfect opportunity for a lowly Kings team to more-or-less officially end the Blackhawks playoff dreams. Saturday night’s matchup sets up well for a trap game.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks at Kings appeared first on The Rink.

9:30 p.m. CST

SAP Center at San Jose

TV/Radio: NBCSCH/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (13–18–3, SV%: .909, GAA: 2.91)

San Jose – Martin Jones (34–17–5, SV%: .898, GAA: 2.91)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play

Chicago (20.5 percent, T-11th)

San Jose (23.8 percent, Sixth)

Penalty Kill

Chicago (73.1 percent, 31st)

San Jose (79.7 percent, 19th)

Shorts for/against

Chicago (32.6, T-11th; 34.7, 30th)

San Jose (33.4, Fourth; 28.4, Second)

Shooting Percentage

Chicago (9.9 percent, Ninth)

San Jose (10.6 percent, Sixth)

Faceoff Percentage

Chicago (49.4 percent, 21st)

San Jose (50.4 percent, 13th)

Average height and weight

Chicago 6’1”, 195 lbs.

San Jose 6’1”, 200 lbs.

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Alex DeBrincat–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane

Brendan Perlini–David Kampf–Dylan Strome

Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dylan Sikura

Chris Kunitz–Marcus Kruger–Dominik Kahun

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Slater Koekkoek–Connor Murphy

San Jose Sharks

Timo Meier–Logan Couture–Joe Pavelski

Evander Kane–Tomas Hertl–Gustav Nyquist

Marcus Sorensen–Joe Thornton–Kevin Labanc

Melker Karlsson–Barclay Goodrow–Joonas Donskoi

Marc-Edouard Vlasic–Brent Burns

Brenden Dillon–Justin Braun

Joakim Ryan–Tim Heed

Analysis

The Blackhawks began writing their eulogy on Tuesday night in Arizona as the Blackhawks dropped the contest 1–0. An offense that has been very good all season decided not to show up in a game that could ultimately seal their fate for the season. The Coyotes kept themselves very much in the hunt after Tuesday’s win.

Chicago now may focus on young players getting better looks and the impending draft lottery coming up. Perhaps the Blackhawks can luck out and sneak into the top five and draft a player who may be able to help the roster now, if not sooner than later.

The Sharks are on the complete opposite end from the Blackhawks in the playoff picture. The Sharks have already clinched their trip to the postseason and currently sit second to the Calgary Flames in the Pacific Division standings. Despite losing six straight games, the Sharks are still a much better team than the Blackhawks and should likely be able to use this game to get back to their winning ways.

The Sharks weak point this season has been goaltending. Although he has 34 wins, Martin Jones has struggled this year, posting a .898 save percentage and a 2.91 goals against average (GAA), which is identical to Corey Crawford’s GAA. This is one area the Blackhawks may be able to exploit and aid in continuing the Sharks bad losing streak.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks at Sharks appeared first on The Rink.

9:00pm CST
Gila River Arena
TV/Radio: WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (13–17–3, SV%: .908, GAA: 2.97)
Arizona – Darcy Kuemper (24–19–7, SV%: .921, GAA: 2.45)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (20.6%, 11th)
Arizona (16.7%, 23rd)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (73.3%, 31st)
Arizona (85.5%, 1st)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.6, 11th; 34.7, 30th)
Arizona (30.4, 22nd; 30.7, 12th)

Shooting %
Chicago (10.1%, 8th)
Arizona (8.4%, 26th)

Faceoff %
Chicago (49.5%, T19th)
Arizona (47.4%, T29th)

Avg. height/weight
Chicago 6’1”, 195lbs
Arizona 6’1” 194lbs

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Alex DeBrincat–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane

Brendan Perlini–Dylan Strome–Dominik Kahun

Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dylan Sikura

Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–Marcus Kruger

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Slater Koekkoek–Connor Murphy

Arizona Coyotes

Richard Panik–Christian Dvorak–Clayton Keller

Lawson Crouse–Derek Stepan–Josh Archibald

Michael Grabner–Brad Richardson–Vinnie Hinostroza

Alex Galchenyuk–Nick Cousins–Conor Garland

Oliver Ekman-Larsson–Niklas Hjalmarsson

Alex Goligoski–Jason Demers

Jakob Chychrun–Jordan Oesterle

Analysis

The Blackhawks will pay a visit to the Arizona Coyotes on Tuesday night, giving rise to yet another playoff-like match-up for the Blackhawks. After taking two valuable points on Sunday against the Avalanche, the Blackhawks are setting up for a chance, although very slim, at the playoffs.

The Blackhawks perfect scenario over the weekend would have been to take all four points from the Avalanche. Instead, the Blackhawks only took two points, while the Avalanche took three of a possible four and maintained a nice gap between themselves and the Blackhawks. The Blackhawks have dug themselves a pretty deep hole.

A wing and two points are critical against the Coyotes on Tuesday night. Otherwise, this team is as good as dead in the playoff race and can start focusing on a hopeful draft lottery surprise.

The Coyotes value this game just as much as the Blackhawks do. Sitting two points back of Colorado, the Coyotes need a win to keep pace with the Avalanche. Minnesota is nipping at the Coyotes’ heels, as are the Blackhawks, so the Coyotes need all the cushion they can get while trying to catch Colorado.

Darcy Kuemper, although very good this season, was lit up the last time the Coyotes played the Blackhawks. It will be intriguing to see which version of Kuemper shows up. If it’s the version who showed up in Chicago two weeks ago, the Blackhawks could be looking at another victory to keep their playoff dreams alive.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks at Coyotes appeared first on The Rink.

After Saturday’s matchup in Denver, the Blackhawks made a few small tweaks to the lines, but the same personnel remained. The lines were as follows:

DeBrincat – Toews – Kane

Perlini – Strome – Kahun

Saad – Anisimov – Sikura

Kunitz – Kampf – Kruger

Keith – Gustafsson

Forsling – Seabrook

Koekkoek – Murphy

Crawford

First Period:

The first period began precariously for the Blackhawks. Less than five minutes into the game, Colorado forward Sven Andrighetto rang a shot off the post behind Crawford. Luckily, the “goalie’s best friend” saved the day, and the game remained deadlocked at one.

The game proved to be frustrating early for Jonathan Toews. Toews was tripped when the Blackhawks were on the power play—an infraction that was left uncalled by officials. Then, Toews was blocked by the linesman when trying to transition out of his own zone

Ref blocking Toews like an All-Pro NFL Guard. pic.twitter.com/uM5kctfzV3

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) March 25, 2019

Despite those issues, both teams entered the first intermission with nothing to show on the scoreboard.

Second Period:

The middle frame began with high-paced back and forth from both teams. Neither team was able to crack the opposing goaltender. Corey Crawford stood tall for the Blackhawks while Philipp Grubauer was phenomenal for the Avalanche.

Late in the period, the Blackhawks found themselves in penalty trouble. After being forced to kill a Marcus Kruger holding penalty, Jonathan Toews was called for a hooking penalty giving the Avalanche a 5-on-3 opportunity. Despite Chicago doing their utmost to kill the penalty, a Tyson Barrie blast was eventually tipped home by Alexander Kerfoot to give the Avalanche the 1-0 lead late in the second period.

The Blackhawks were able to minimize any further damage from the late Avalanche power play. The Blackhawks then went on a power play of their own, that would carry over to the third period, when Alex DeBrincat took a borderline dirty hit from Derick Brassard.  Brassard was subsequently called for a boarding minor with only 14 seconds remaining in the second.

Third Period:

The Blackhawks began the third period on the power play. After the first unit could not generate anything, the second unit was deployed by Coach Colliton. Although having struggled with face offs all year, Artem Anisimov won a critical offensive zone draw to give the Blackhawks possession. Brent Seabrook fired a wrist shot from the point that looked to be going wide. However, Anisimov was able to get the shaft of his stick on the shot and redirect the puck past Grubauer to tie the game.

THIS. GAME. IS. TIED!

The #Blackhawks power play makes it 1-1 to start the 3rd period! pic.twitter.com/PsczNk7aEr

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) March 25, 2019

The momentum was critical for the Blackhawks. They would continue to dominate play late in the game, outshooting the Avalanche 16-3 in the final frame. The lone reason that Colorado remained in the game was the sensational play of Grubauer, who was sensational down the stretch and made some big saves to keep his team in the game.

This Sunday night showdown would require extra time, as the game entered overtime at 1-1.

Overtime:

The Avalanche controlled the puck to begin the extra frame, giving Blackhawks fans flashbacks of their overtime loss to the Canucks less than a week ago. However, no damage was done early and both teams would trade chances.

The Blackhawks had a great opportunity when Brandon Saad was the trigger man on a 2-on-1 with Alex DeBrincat. The shot was stopped by Grubauer and the puck found its way back into the Blackhawks zone.

Duncan Keith gained possession with speed in the Blackhawks zone following the Saad chance. When it looked like Keith would not be able to do much, he dipped his shoulder and took the puck hard to the net. Keith jammed the puck through Grubauer’s five hole before running over the Avalanche goaltender, ending the game with a huge Blackhawks victory. The Blackhawks got the second point and defeated the Avalanche 2-1 in overtime.

Duncan Keith with the overtime winner! #HAWKSWIN pic.twitter.com/mFkfQuUpVD

— Four Feathers Podcast (@FourFeathersPod) March 25, 2019

Quick Hits:

• Duncan Keith is a Man: Duncan Keith’s goal may have given fans flashbacks to 2015. His tenacity with the puck and drive to the net were signs of a leader and grizzled vet who desperately wants to return to the playoffs. It’s safe to say the Blackhawks are bought into making it to the playoffs and it will take performances such as Keith’s in order to get there.
• Corey Crawford Looking Strong: Despite only facing 20 shots, Corey Crawford looked incredibly strong in tonight’s outing. It’s encouraging to see Crawford playing as well as he has been recently, especially in a set of back-to-back games. He will likely be in net for every game possible as long as he isn’t going to burn out. There is no doubt the Blackhawks will need him to continue this play with any hope of a playoff berth.
• Playoffs?: Yes, playoffs are still a real possibility. There are a lot of factors working against the Blackhawks since they will have to jump three teams to get there. But they are certainly not out of it after capturing two points against the Avalanche. These next seven games should be entertaining, as long as the Hawks are not mathematically eliminated.

The Blackhawks travel to the desert on Tuesday, March 26th to take on the Arizona Coyotes in a playoff-like matchup. Puck drop will be at 9:00pm CST.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks Muscle Past Avalanche, 2-1 in Overtime appeared first on The Rink.

7:00pm CST
United Center
TV/Radio: NBCSN/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Cam Ward (14–11–4, SV%: .893, GAA: 3.72)
Colorado – Semyon Varlamov (19–18–9, SV%: .910, GAA: 2.86)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (20.4%, 14th)
Colorado (21.7%, 8th)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (73.4%, 31st)
Colorado (77.9%, 27th)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.5, 11th; 34.9, 30th)
Colorado (33.0, 5th; 31.7, T18th)

Shooting %
Chicago (10.2%, 8th)
Colorado (9.6%, 13th)

Faceoff %
Chicago (49.4%, 21st)
Colorado (48.4%, 26th)

Avg. height/weight
Chicago 6’1”, 195lbs
Colorado 6’1” 201lbs

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Dylan Sikura–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane

Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Brendan Perlini

Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dominik Kahun

Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–Marcus Kruger

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Carl Dahlstrom–Connor Murphy

Colorado Avalanche

Derick Brassard–Nathan MacKinnon–J.T. Compher

Colin Wilson–Carl Soderberg–Mikko Rantanen

Alexander Kerfoot–Tyson Jost–Matt Calvert

Sven Andrighetto–Gabriel Bourque–Ryan Graves

Samuel Girard–Erik Johnson

Ian Cole–Tyson Barrie

Patrik Nemeth–Nikita Zadorov

Analysis

After yesterday’s disappointing loss, the Blackhawks now sit six points out of the final wild card spot after Colorado gained two points, now sitting at 80. Not only did Colorado better their position in the race, but Arizona and Minnesota both improved over the last two days and currently sit at 79 points in the standings. The gap that the Blackhawks need to make up has now grown larger.

Today’s game will show a lot about this Blackhawks team. If they are a playoff team, they will respond today and go into Arizona looking to take two points as well. Every game now down the stretch is truly the most important game of the season.

The Avalanche were able to capture two points yesterday despite missing both Gabriel Landeskog and Mikko Rantanen. It’s uncertain if Rantanen will play today, but whether he does or not, the Avalanche certainly have the edge going into this evening’s contest.

The Blackhawks will show who they truly are in this playoff race. Are they a contender or a pretender?

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks vs Avalanche appeared first on The Rink.

2:00pm CST
Pepsi Center
TV/Radio: NBCSCH/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (12–16–3, SV%: .908, GAA: 3.03)
Colorado – Semyon Varlamov (19–18–9, SV%: .910, GAA: 2.86)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (20.6%, 13th)
Colorado (21.8%, 8th)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (73.3%, 31st)
Colorado (77.6%, 27th)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.4, 12th; 35.0, 30th)
Colorado (33.1, 5th; 31.7, 19th)

Shooting %
Chicago (10.2%, 7th)
Colorado (9.5%, 14th)

Faceoff %
Chicago (49.3%, 21st)
Colorado (48.4%, 26th)

Avg. height/weight
Chicago 6’1”, 195lbs
Colorado 6’1” 201lbs

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Dylan Sikura–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane

Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Brendan Perlini

Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dominik Kahun

Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–Marcus Kruger

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Carl Dahlstrom–Connor Murphy

Colorado Avalanche

Derick Brassard–Nathan MacKinnon–J.T. Compher

Colin Wilson–Carl Soderberg–Mikko Rantanen

Alexander Kerfoot–Tyson Jost–Matt Calvert

Sven Andrighetto–Gabriel Bourque–Ryan Graves

Samuel Girard–Erik Johnson

Ian Cole–Tyson Barrie

Patrik Nemeth–Nikita Zadorov

Analysis

The Blackhawks remain five points out of the second wild card position after the Minnesota Wild beat the Washington Capitals on Friday night. The two teams between the Blackhawks and that second wild card spot both have 78 points entering play today. The Coyotes have hit a small slide after being red-hot and the Avalanche have continued consistent play to remain in the hunt. The Blackhawks have an opportunity to pass the Avalanche with four points this weekend in the home-and-home that begins today.

It is no secret that the Blackhawks’ two most important games occur this weekend. At this point, every game is the most important. However, a possible four point swing in either direction can either enhance the Blackhawks’ playoff chances, or completely wipe them out of the playoff picture.

Key players will need to step up for the Blackhawks. With Drake Caggiula still injured, the lines that were once clicking during the Blackhawks long win streak have been split. The chemistry has been off, and the Blackhawks could use that consistency once again to remain in the hunt. Therefore, Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Dylan Strome, Alex DeBrincat and Brandon Saad will need to provide a lot of offense if the rest of the team cannot provide the necessary depth.

The Colorado Avalanche sit one point back of the Minnesota Wild entering play on Saturday. The Avalanche have won 5 of their last 7 games, allowing them to cement themselves in the playoff picture. It currently looks like a three team race for the second wild card spot with Minnesota, Arizona and Colorado all within one point of each other. The Blackhawks can quickly change that this weekend, however, if they can steal four points from the Avalanche.

The Avalanche are short-handed without captain Gabriel Landeskog. Landeskog was injured a few weeks ago with an upper body injury. His loss was a major loss to the Avalanche, not only because of his off-ice presence, but because Landeskog set a career high in points (69) despite only playing in 68 games.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks at Avalanche appeared first on The Rink.

7:30pm CST
United Center
TV/Radio: WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (12–15–3, SV%: .907, GAA: 3.06)
Philadelphia – Carter Hart (14–10–1, SV%: .919, GAA: 2.73)

TEAM STATISTICS

Power Play
Chicago (20.8%, 12th)
Philadelphia (16.7%, 23rd)

Penalty Kill
Chicago (73.1%, 31st)
Philadelphia (78.6%, 25th)

Shorts for/against
Chicago (32.4, 12th; 35.1, 30th)
Philadelphia (31.5, 18th; 32.4, T21st)

Shooting %
Chicago (10.3%, 7th)
Philadelphia (9.6%, 12th)

Faceoff %
Chicago (49.3%, T21st)
Philadelphia (54.9%, 1st)

Avg. height/weight
Chicago 6’1”, 195lbs
Philadelphia 6’1” 197lbs

PROJECTED LINES/PAIRINGS

Chicago Blackhawks

Dylan Sikura–Jonathan Toews–Patrick Kane

Alex DeBrincat–Dylan Strome–Brendan Perlini

Brandon Saad–Artem Anisimov–Dominik Kahun

Chris Kunitz–David Kampf–Marcus Kruger

Duncan Keith–Erik Gustafsson

Gustav Forsling–Brent Seabrook

Slater Koekkoek–Connor Murphy

Philadelphia Flyers

Oskar Lindblom–Sean Couturier–Jakub Voracek

James Van Riemsdyk–Nolan Patrick–Claude Giroux

Michael Raffl–Scott Laughton–Travis Konecny

Phil Varone–Corban Knight–Ryan Hartman

Ivan Provorov–Travis Sanheim

Andrew MacDonald–Shayne Gostisbehere

Robert Hagg–Radko Gudas

Analysis

After dropping a heart-breaker against the Canucks on Monday, the Blackhawks return to game action on home ice against the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday. The Blackhawks left a big point on the table against the Canucks and there’s little doubt the players are feeling the regret of not capturing that second point.

The Canucks presented the perfect “trap game” scenario for the Blackhawks who, on paper, are clearly the better team. However, despite playing the night before, the Canucks came out as the better team for most of the game.

The Blackhawks currently sit four points back of the Coyotes for the final wild card spot. There is no doubt that Thursday’s game is important, especially with the two games this weekend on the horizon against the Colorado Avalanche.

The Philadelphia Flyers are in a similar position to the Blackhawks. The Flyers are six points out of the final wild card spot in the East and, despite being sellers at the deadline, have continued to play well enough to remain in the hunt.

A pleasant surprise for the Flyers has been young goaltender Carter Hart. The 20-year old goalie has given stability to the Flyers’ goaltending situation, after the team set the record for most goalies used in a season with eight.

The Flyers have just as much to play for as the Blackhawks do. There is no doubt the Flyers and former Blackhawks forward Ryan Hartman will come out “guns-a-blazing” on Thursday. It’s up to the Blackhawks to play the way they did in the final ten minutes of regulation against Vancouver in order to win these meaningful games down the stretch in hopes of making the playoffs.

Comment below in our live game thread tonight!

And look for the internet’s most robust recap of the game tomorrow morning on the-rink.com.

The post Preview/Game Thread: Blackhawks vs Flyers appeared first on The Rink.

7:30pm CST

United Center

TV/Radio: NBCSCH/WGN

PROJECTED STARTERS

Chicago – Corey Crawford (12–15–2, SV%: .907, GAA: 3.07)

Vancouver – Thatcher Demko (1–2–0, SV%: .895, GAA: 3.21)