First period

On a delayed penalty call, Colton Dach scored his first of the season to give the Blackhawks a 1-0 lead. Louis Crevier shot the puck from the left point, which Ullmark stopped but left a big rebound to his right that Dach gathered and brought to the forehand and snapped in at the 6:47 mark. Nick Foligno picked up the secondary assist for his 600th career point.

#kindanasty pic.twitter.com/1Vg8xvJ9hY

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 29, 2025

Crevier made it 2-0 with a shot from the left half boards that went off an Ottawa defenseman and into the net. For Crevier, it was his second of the season at 12:06.

right on target pic.twitter.com/ypmupBbr26

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 29, 2025

With the Hawks on the power play, Connor Bedard scored his fourth of the season to give the Hawks a 3-0 lead. Frank Nazar fed Andre Burakovsky, who skated to the right of Ullmark then made a diagonal pass to Bedard in the left circle, who sniped it under the crossbar at 17:53.

what a snipe pic.twitter.com/lMj068bJ4R

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 29, 2025

The Hawks would take a three-goal lead into the first intermission.

Second period

Following a successful penalty kill, Bedard scored his second of the game and fifth of the season with a highlight-reel coast-to-coast rush. Bedard skated with the puck from in front of his own net then entered the Ottawa zone 1-on-3, toe-dragged and fired a wrist shot from the slot at 2:58 to give Chicago a 4-0 lead.

what, like it’s hard? pic.twitter.com/GyEBuTvKt8

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 29, 2025

Ottawa got on the board with a goal by Jake Sanderson at 4:56 to cut the deficit to 4-1. Sanderson fired a shot from the point that missed the net but ricocheted in front and went in off the back of Knight’s catching glove and into the net. For Sanderson, it was his second of the season.

The Sens inched closer when Michael Amadio scored his second of the season at the 7:07 mark. Amadio battled Wyatt Kaiser behind the net and broke free and skated alone in front, turned around and fired a shot top shelf to make it 4-2. Amadio took advantage of a miscommunication between Kaiser and Artyom Levshunov to cut the Chicago lead in half.

Ottawa made it 4-3 when Tim Stutzle made a nice move around Kaiser in the neutral zone and skated in and fired a wrist shot past Knight for his fifth of the season at 8:31. The Hawks challenged for offside but the goal was upheld. The Hawks would take a one-goal lead into the second intermission.

Third period

Bedard scored his first career hat trick and his sixth of the season to give the Hawks a 5-3 lead. Ryan Greene won an offensive zone faceoff cleanly back to Bedard, who fired a wrist shot over Ullmark’s glove and under the crossbar at the 3:46 mark.

HATS OFF TO CONNOR BEDARD pic.twitter.com/FDaDh048Nq

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 29, 2025

Ryan Donato made it 6-3 with his sixth goal of the season at 8:24. Bedard skated in on the right wing side and his shot attempt was deflected right to Donato in the slot and he buried it into an open net.

Donato’s 100th point as a Blackhawk pic.twitter.com/zfKMLD9sJG

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 29, 2025

With Ottawa on a power play and their net empty, Nazar skated out of the zone on a breakaway and got tripped, but was still able to score his fifth of the season at 12:44 to give Chicago a 7-3 lead, which would hold at the final horn.

Analysis

The Blackhawks finally took advantage of a team on its second of back-to-back games, but the outcome was certainly in doubt in the second period. With Ottawa scoring three quick goals to cut the Hawks’ lead to 4-3 and heading to the power play following a failed coach’s challenge, the Hawks killed off the Ottawa man advantage and regained momentum heading into the second intermission. That led to the third period, which the Hawks dominated and added three goals to pad their lead.

The Hawks begin a six-game road trip on Thursday night in Winnipeg where they’ll face their former captain and three-time Stanley Cup champion, Jonathan Toews, for the first time since his return to the NHL. Puck drop is at 7 p.m. CDT on CHSN with the radio call on 720 AM WGN.

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Brock Nelson opened the scoring with his 20th of the season on the Islanders first shot of the game at 6:09 of the first. Hudson Fasching entered the Hawks zone, stopped at the blue line then led Nelson with a pass as he had a step on the Hawks defender and skated in alone, and fired a shot through the five hole of Mrazek to give the Isles a 1-0 advantage. The score would remain through the first 20 minutes.

With 1:53 left in the second period, Boris Katchouk tied it at 1-1. Katchouck skated in alone but was denied by Sorokin. Katchouck picked up his own rebound and skated into the slot and fired a wrist shot past Sorokin for his fifth of the season.

Katchouk isn’t the most skilled guy but he never quits on a play #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/G5QrDI3geq

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) January 20, 2024

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The Blackhawks took the lead with 45.7 seconds left in the middle period when Joey Anderson scored his first of the season. Colin Blackwell skated in on a two-on-one and fed Anderson who tapped it in to give the Hawks a 2-1 lead after 40 minutes.

STAND UP UC pic.twitter.com/ozvH9MRBHy

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 20, 2024

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The Blackhawks extended their lead to 3-1 when Jason Dickinson scored his 15th of the season. A Noah Dobson turnover led to a Hawks odd-man rush up the ice. Anderson fed a wide-open Dickerson at 5:10 of the third period.

this goal pic.twitter.com/W2yzuEgCnf

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 20, 2024

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The Islanders cut the Blackhawks’ lead to 3-2 at 6:37 of the third. Matt Barzal picked up a loose puck and dished it to Bo Horvat for his 18th of the season.

At 12:50 of the third, the Isles tied it at 3-3 when Kyle Palmieri scored his 11th of the season. Palmieri skated into the Hawks zone behind the net and scored on a wraparound with Mrazek caught out of position. Sixty minutes was not enough so the teams headed to overtime in a 3-3 tie.

It did not take long for the Hawks to skate away with a 4-3 win in overtime. Just 22 seconds into the extra frame, Seth Jones fired a wrist shot from the middle of the ice just inside the blue line for his first of the season that went past a screened Sorokin to give the Hawks the win.

HAWKS OT WIN ON A FRIDAY NIGHT pic.twitter.com/acgmqc6lO2

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 20, 2024

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Analysis

The Hawks performed a complete 180 from their Thursday night debacle with a strong effort against a gritty Islanders team that was looking for its first win in the final game of their current four-game road trip. It was not to be as the Hawks played a simple game by consistently putting the puck on net and keeping their feet moving throughout the ice. The Hawks also deserve credit for sticking with their game plan after giving up a two-goal lead in the third period. Despite giving up a bad goal on the equalizer in the third, Mrazek had another strong game as he stopped several point-blank chances. The Blackhawks begin a four-game road trip out west on Monday night in Vancouver. Puck drop is at 9:00 PM CST on NBCSCH+ and 720 WGN Radio.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks edge Islanders, 4-3 in overtime appeared first on The Rink.

After the Hawks killed off an early Bruins power play, Connor Bedard scored the first goal of his career. Bedard skated in the offensive zone with the puck and made a behind-the-back pass to Ryan Donato, who fed it back to Bedard in the right circle. Bedard shot it from a near horizontal angle and Ullmark made the stop but left a rebound that Bedard retrieved and wrapped it around the open right side of the net for the goal. The Hawks had a 1–0 lead at the 5:37 mark of the first.

CONNOR BEDARD WITH HIS FIRST NHL GOAL pic.twitter.com/pQeHIDx7WO

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 11, 2023

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Trent Frederic tied it for the Bruins at 1–1 at 11:22 when he deflected a Brandon Carlo shot from the point. Rookie center Matthew Poitras set up the play and picked up his first career point on the goal. An entertaining first would end with the teams tied 1–1.

At 13:09 of the second, Milan Lucic skated in 2-on-1 and fed David Pastrnak in the right circle, who snapped one past Soderblom. The Bruins took a 2–1 lead and it would remain that way after 40 minutes.

The Bruins hung on to a 2–1 advantage for most of the third period. Pastrnak iced it with his second of the game into the Hawks’ vacated net with 58 seconds left to give the Bruins a 3–1 lead, which stood as final.

Analysis

For the second straight game, the Hawks received spectacular goaltending, which kept them in the game. Otherwise, this was a fairly one-sided affair. While Bedard flashed his high-end skill, the rest of the offense could not generate many chances. At one point, the Hawks were down to 10 forwards in the third with Taylor Hall exiting early in the second with an injury after a collision with Carlo, and Jason Dickinson missed half of the third while serving a 10-minute misconduct penalty after instigating a fight with John Beecher, who had just driven Cole Guttman into the boards from behind. With the Hawks playing the second game in as many nights, they began to wear down late as the Bruins dominated possession in the closing minutes. Rookie defender Wyatt Kaiser had another tough night, while Kevin Korchinski and Alex Vlasic had fine, albeit unremarkable, showings.

The Hawks continue their season-opening road trip on Saturday night in Quebec against the Montreal Canadiens at Bell Centre. Puck drop is 6 p.m. CDT on NHL Network with the radio call on 720 WGN.

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The Hawks opened the scoring when Corey Perry poked in a rebound following a Nick Foligno shot from the slot. Both Perry and Jason Dickinson crashed the net and Perry got credited with the goal at 2:09 of the first period.

̶c̶o̶r̶e̶y̶ ̶p̶e̶r̶r̶y̶ more like scorey perry pic.twitter.com/HCcZwYFiJL

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 4, 2023

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The Hawks would maintain a 1–0 lead after one. For the Hawks, Petr Mrazek was sharp, as he stopped all 14 shots he faced.

Exactly one minute into the second stanza, Joe Veleno tied it at 1–1. The 2018 first-round pick of Detroit fired a one-timer from the left circle past Seth Jones and into the net off a nice cross-ice feed from Jonatan Berggren.

With 4:30 left in the frame, Connor Murphy broke the tie with a nasty wrist shot from the top of the left circle that went in just under the cross bar on a feed from Connor Bedard. The Hawks regained the lead at 2–1.

connor to connor pic.twitter.com/pljr9DTySj

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 4, 2023

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Less than a minute later on a delayed penalty, Bedard skated in alone and tried to go five hole following some slick stick-handling, but Michael Hutchinson made the save for Detroit.

At 4:49 of the third, Veleno scored his second of the night off a give-and go-with Klim Kostin to tie the game at 2–2. On the play, Lukas Reichel was caught out of position and trailed Veleno as he shot the puck into the back of the net.

Midway through the third, Perry scored his second of the game on the power play. Taylor Hall found Perry wide open to the right of Hutchinson, took the pass and skated across the crease and fired it into a wide open net to give Chicago a 3–2 advantage. Hall and Bedard each notched their second assist of the game on the power play goal.

don’t look now, scorey perry got his second of the night pic.twitter.com/XNgZlde23w

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 4, 2023

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With 1:09 left and the Red Wings’ net empty, Bedard scored his first preseason goal on the power play. Following a Detroit clear, Mrazek fed Bedard at center ice, who skated up the left wing boards and fired the puck into the open cage to give the Hawks a 4–2 lead, which was the final tally.

BEDARD EMPTY NETTER pic.twitter.com/8ws2IcrrPU

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) October 4, 2023

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Analysis

The Blackhawks looked much better on Tuesday than in their previous game in Detroit. After a wide-open first where the Wings outshot the Hawks 14–12, Chicago put the clamps down and held Detroit to just five shots on goal during the final two periods. For the game, the Hawks outshot the Wings, 34–19. In addition to the defensive effort, the Hawks’ power play looked solid, with Bedard drawing two and sometimes three defenders, which created space down low for others including Hall and Perry, who would connect on the eventual game-winning goal.

The Blackhawks play their penultimate preseason contest on Thursday night at the United Center against the Minnesota Wild. Puck drop will be at 7:30 p.m. CDT and will be available on both NBCSCH and on WGN Radio 720.

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— The Stars struck first on the power play to take a 1–0 lead when Joe Pavelski found Roope Hintz on a 2-on-1 down low and he fired the puck into a wide-open net with Mrazek out of position. For Hintz, it was his 27th of the season at 10:21 of the first.

— The Hawks tied it at 1–1 at the 15:54 mark when Cole Guttman tapped in a rebound for his third of the season off a Tyler Johnson shot off the rush.

— At 17:05 of the first, Dallas regained the lead at 2–1 when Hintz scored his second of the game and 28th of the season on a one-timer from the left circle on the power play. Dallas took the lead into the first intermission.

— The Hawks came out for the second period and tied it just 26 seconds in when Seth Jones floated a wrist shot through a screened Murray for his seventh of the season. The teams would remain in a 2–2 tie after two periods.

— The Stars returned the favor with an early third-period goal to take a 3–2 lead. One of the Stars’ newest acquisitions, Evgenii Dadonov, won a board battle behind the net and then found Jamie Benn in front, who knocked in his 25th of the season at the 45-second mark.

— With the Hawks’ net empty, the Stars won a defensive zone draw and Esa Lindell launched a 200-foot shot into the open cage to take a 4–2 lead. For Lindell, it was his seventh of the season.

— With 13.7 seconds left, Hintz completed the hat trick with an empty-net tally for his 29th of the season to give the Stars a 5–2 lead, which stood as the final.

— Once again, the Hawks played hard throughout the contest but just ran out of gas in the third, largely due to the talent disparity. For the Stars, Murray picked up his first NHL victory.

The Blackhawks return to home ice on Saturday night when they face the Nashville Predators. Puck drop is at 7 p.m. CST.

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— The Blackhawks started slow and would never recover, as the Hurricanes dominated 5-on-5 play. Carolina took a 1–0 lead about midway through the first period when Jordan Martinook redirected a Brent Burns point shot for his fourth of the season.

— Carolina extended its lead to 2–0 with just under five minutes to go in the first when Jordan Staal scored his fourth on a wrist shot from the right circle that went over the glove of Petr Mrazek, who made 29 saves in the loss.

— In the second period, Andrei Svechnikov sniped his 12th of the season at the 14:07 mark on a setup from Jesper Fast, who intercepted a Caleb Jones clearing attempt. The Canes’ 3–0 lead would stand as final. Pyotr Kochetkov made 27 saves for his first NHL shutout to move Carolina to 10–5–1 on the season while the Blackhawks dropped to 6–6–3.

— The lone bright spot for the Hawks was the penalty kill, which went 4-for-4 against Carolina. The Hawks have killed off 10 straight since they gave up three power play goals in their 4–0 loss at Winnipeg on Nov. 5.

The Blackhawks return to the United Center on Wednesday night for a nationally televised matchup against the St. Louis Blues. Puck drop on TNT is at 6:30 p.m. CST.

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After their opening night tradition of walking the red carpet, the Blackhawks slept-walked through the first period where they found themselves down 2-0. The Wings received an even strength goal by former Blackhawk Pius Suter and, 67 seconds later, a power play tally from Dylan Larkin.

New Blackhawks forward Andreas Athanasiou cut the Wings’ lead to 2–1 at the 5:41 mark of the second period when he was awarded and succeeded on a penalty shot for his first of the season.

Midway through the second, ex-Blackhawk Dominik Kubalik scored his first Red Wings goal to regain a two-goal lead for the visitors.

Trailing 3–1 entering the third, Alex Stalock replaced Petr Mrazek in the net, who appeared injured late in the second. Philipp Kurashev scored his first of the season nearly four minutes into the frame to cut the Hawks’ deficit to one.

The Hawks tied it at 3–3 on a shorthanded goal by Connor Murphy.

In the extra session, Max Domi forced a neutral zone turnover and then skated in and blew a wrister past Alex Nedeljkovic for his first as a Blackhawk at the 2:44 mark to secure the win.

The Blackhawks welcome the Seattle Kraken for a Sunday afternoon contest at 1 p.m. CDT.

The post Blackhawks Post-Game One-Timers – 10/22 Detroit Red Wings appeared first on The Rink.

With the Blackhawks hosting Hockey Fights Cancer night, emotions ran high at the UC, as Blackhawks legend and current radio analyst Troy Murray returned amidst his own battle with cancer to drop the ceremonial first puck.

First period

The Hawks had a lot of jump in the opening frame, especially during the second half of the frame, as Reimer made multiple point-blank saves to keep the game scoreless. The Blackhawks killed a Sharks power play and then gradually took over the play with substantial zone time and generated several quality scoring chances, but had nothing to show for it as the game remained scoreless after one. Chicago outshot San Jose 11–4 in the first.

Second period

The Sharks opened the second with a much better effort, as they began to activate their defensemen, which led to some high-danger chances from the slot, but Fleury continued to shine. Fleury also received some help from Hawks defenseman Jake McCabe, who saved a goal by clearing the puck just before it crossed the line during a goal-mouth scramble near the midway point of the period.

At the 13:39 mark, right after the Blackhawks failed to score on a 2-on-1 break, Timo Meier scored his eighth of the season by deflecting a Rudolfs Balcers shot from the slot to give the Sharks a 1–0 lead. Give credit to Sharks captain Logan Couture, who fed Balcers with a nice redirection pass to set up the play.

After 40 minutes, the Sharks had a 1–0 lead. In the middle period, the Sharks outshot the Hawks 15–8 with both teams owning a two period total of 19 shots each.

Third period

The Hawks dominated the third by basically setting up shop in the Sharks’ zone for most of the period. In fact, with about six minutes left, the Sharks had registered just one shot in the period. With the net empty, the Hawks failed to get the equalizer, but Meier doubled the San Jose lead to 2–0 with his second of the game and ninth of the season into the vacant Chicago net. Reimer finished with a 29-save shutout, as the Blackhawks offensive struggles continued.

Analysis

Overall, this was a very strong effort by the Blackhawks. Other than the second period when the Sharks applied some serious offensive pressure, the Hawks did a good job limiting high-danger chances, but were not able to capitalize on their wealth of opportunities.

The good

Marc-Andre Fleury: The Flower was sensational, especially early in the first, as he kept his team in the game. Unfortunately, the Blackhawks’ offense was unable to come through and gift him a win for his birthday.

Henrik Borgstrom: It was a solid effort by the young forward, who had multiple scoring chances and created a few others: A positive sign moving ahead as the team hopes he is able to find the back of the net.

Jake McCabe: Even though he was a -1, he was a strong presence all over the ice, highlighted by his goal-saving clear to keep the game scoreless in the second.

The bad

The power play: After starting the season strong, the Hawks have tallied just one goal in their last 11 games with the man advantage, not good considering how poorly they are in 5-on-5 play. Expect the power play to be a focus in practice with their next game on Thursday.

The ugly

The offense: The Blackhawks have scored eight goals in their last five games. Many of their top producers are in the midst of significant slumps, led by Jonathan Toews, who is without a goal at the quarter pole of the season. Of course, he gets a pass for his health issues and the fact that he does other things well, including being the only consistent winner in the dot.

The Hawks head east for a three-game road trip beginning Thursday night against the Washington Capitals. The game begins at 6 p.m. CST with the broadcast on NBCSN-Chicago and the radio call on 720 WGN.

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First period

The game remained scoreless after one with both teams generating some quality scoring chances. The Hawks received two power play opportunities where they looked sharp moving the puck, but had nothing to show for it, while the penalty kill successfully stymied the Penguins’ only man advantage. For the period, the Blackhawks outshot the Penguins 14–11.

Second period

At the 2:14 mark, Jujhar Khaira scored his first goal as a Blackhawk. Off a face-off win, Jonathan Toews outworked Jeff Carter behind the Pittsburgh net then fed a wide-open Khaira with a goal-mouth pass to give the Hawks a 1–0 lead.

With 4:07 remaining, the Hawks took a 2–0 lead when Seth Jones scored his first as a Blackhawk. The Hawks had the Penguins pinned in their own zone for nearly a minute when Patrick Kane skated the blue line and found Jones, who sniped one top shelf from the face-off dot to the left of Jarry, who was screened by Kirby Dach. The assist for Kane was career point No. 1,100.

For the period, the Blackhawks outshot the Penguins 12–11 for a 26–22 advantage for the game.

Third period

The Penguins came out of the dressing room and controlled the tempo from the opening draw. At 5:34, the Penguins cut the Blackhawks’ lead to 2–1 on a goal by Carter, who won a face-off and deflected in a Jake Guentzel shot from the top of the left circle. Carter was able to get inside positioning on Jones to tip the puck between Fleury’s pads for his second of the season.

Late in the third, Jarry stopped Mike Hardman on a breakaway to keep the Penguins within a goal. The Penguins went the other way and Carter scored his second of the period and third of the season, again from Guentzel, to tie it at 2–2. The Penguins nearly won it in regulation at the horn when Bryan Rust airmailed a rebound off of Fleury’s glove.

In the third, Pittsburgh had a significant edge in shots on goal, 20–5, and finished regulation with a 42–31 advantage.

Overtime and shootout

As expected, the action was wide open, with Kane getting two grade-A chances to win it. Kane and Alex DeBrincat skated in on a 2-on-0 and Kane hit the post. In the closing seconds, Kane skated in alone and shot a potential buzzer-beater wide.

In the shootout, Toews, the Hawks’ usual leadoff man, went forehand backhand and buried it between Jarry’s legs to take the early 1–0 shootout lead.

Fleury then stopped his former teammate Guentzel to keep the Hawks in the lead.

Kane could not double the lead, as he was stopped when he slowed up and tried to go to Jarry’s glove side.

Kris Letang skated in to the right of Fleury and tried to go five hole but was denied.

DeBrincat then closed it out with a wrister to the high glove side that hit the cross bar and went in to give the Hawks the extra point and their first winning streak of the season.

Analysis: The good, the bad, the ugly

The good

Marc-Andre Fleury: The future Hockey Hall of Famer played arguably his best game as a Blackhawk, stopping a season-high 42 shots plus two more in the shootout. The motivation was certainly there after Fleury was benched when the two teams faced each other in Pittsburgh.

Calvin de Haan: I know Jones gets most of the praise and criticism as the team’s top defenseman, but let’s give some well-deserved love to de Haan. He played over 18 minutes and was a factor defensively with four blocked shots and three hits. He certainly had some jump in his step and perhaps the coaching change has re-energized him.

The bad

Holding leads: Once again, the Hawks blew a two-goal lead, but more important, this team needs to find a way to bury teams and finish games in regulation versus relying on the gimmicky overtime and shootout. Certainly the positive you can take from this is both goals were scored 5-on-5 on a night their power play was silenced.

The ugly

Erik Gustafsson: The end may be near for “Gus,” who played just over eight minutes, as the team is beginning to get healthy on the back end. Caleb Jones and Wyatt Kalynuk have returned to practice, with the latter being activated from long-term injured reserve on Tuesday.

The game was certainly entertaining and not nearly the eyesore we saw multiple times during the month of October. The Blackhawks continued to play with renewed energy and much looser under King and will look to stretch their winning streak to three this Friday at the United Center against the division-rival Arizona Coyotes. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. CST and will be televised exclusively on ESPN+ and HULU with the radio broadcast on WGN 720.

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First period

Nearly six minutes into the game, the Blackhawks took a 1–0 lead on a beautiful tally from Kirby Dach, who danced through Toronto’s defense and finished the play with top shelf shot for his third of the season. The goal marked the first time this season the Blackhawks held a lead, ending its drought at nearly 367 minutes of game action, the longest stretch without a lead to start a season in NHL history.

At the 11:48 mark, Alex DeBrincat scored his third of the season on a breakaway to give the Hawks a 2–0 advantage. Seth Jones assisted on both goals, as he led the team to arguably its best period of hockey this season. The Hawks also held an 11–10 shots on goal edge through one.

Second period

The Leafs opened the period playing much more crisp, as their passes were much cleaner, and it eventually paid off. At 6:14 of the second, the Leafs got on the board on a nice rush up the ice that ended with a filthy backhand shot from the slot by John Tavares that went top shelf to cut the Hawks’ lead to 2–1. The Hawks would hang on to the lead through two. In the second, the Leafs had a 10–9 edge in shots on goal and the teams stood even at 20 apiece for the game.

Third period

The Hawks had multiple chances to regain a two-goal lead. Philipp Kurashev had a step on a defender and plowed into Campbell, dislodging the net as Dominik Kubalik tapped in a loose puck. The referee pointed as if it were a goal and the horn sounded, but instead, the ref assessed Kurashev with a goalie interference minor infraction. Later in the period, MacKenzie Entwistle was stopped by Campbell on a shorthanded breakaway to keep the Leafs alive. 

At 12:31 of the period, former Blackhawk David Kampf tallied his first as a Leaf to tie the game at 2–2 on a backhander from the slot that deflected off Erik Gustafsson’s skate and past Lankinen. Neither team would score in the rest of the period, sending the contest to extra time. In the third, the Leafs had a 17–7 edge in shots on goal and a 37–27 advantage in regulation.

Overtime

Nearly two minutes into the extra session, William Nylander skated in on a breakaway and slipped a backhander past Lankinen for his third of the season to complete the comeback and earn the Leafs the win and end their four-game slide.

Analysis: The good, the bad, the ugly

The good

Seth Jones: He played arguably his best game in a Blackhawks sweater. He was a strong presence in all three zones, playing over 28 minutes. Jones registered two assists, five shots on goal and three blocked shots. 

Kevin Lankinen: Once again, the Hawks’ sophomore netminder received the start over the reigning Vezina Trophy winner, Marc Andre-Fleury. Lankinen kept the Blackhawks in the game, especially in the third period when Toronto applied a ton of pressure. Lankinen has been positionally strong this season, which demonstrates the significant confidence he is playing with. All he needs is a win to show for his strong efforts thus far.

The bad

Finishing games: Once again, the Hawks appear allergic to holding leads (dating back to last season when they actually held more than one in a season). The Blackhawks need to find a way to finish games, whether it is getting that clutch insurance goal, staying strong defensively or getting that big save (I will take all three!).

The ugly

The Hawks’ record: While they picked up a point in this game for their strong effort, you cannot help but notice the big fat zero in the win column. 

Things will not get easier this weekend with back-to-back road games beginning Friday night at RBC Center against the undefeated Carolina Hurricanes. Puck drop is at 6 p.m. CDT on NBCSCH and WGN 720.

News and notes

Following the game, Kane, who appeared remotely while in COVID-19 protocol, and Toews met with the media for the first time since the results of the investigation into how the Blackhawks handled sexual assault allegations against former video coach Brad Aldrich back in 2010. The virtual media scrum also came hours after former Blackhawks first-round draft pick Kyle Beach came forward as “John Doe” in the investigation. Below are select quotes from Kane and Toews’ media availability.

Patrick Kane

“(It) definitely could’ve been handled differently, most importantly for Kyle’s sake. It seemed like the organization did what they had to do as far as making necessary moves as far as guys who were with the team that were still with the team now and aren’t with us anymore. I knew Stan very well. I knew him as a great man. He did a lot for me personally, coming into the league and over the course of my career. I’m sure he would’ve handled things differently nowadays. But what happened, happened in the past. The organization made the right moves to get the Blackhawks going forward in the right steps and making sure we’re trending forward.”

“Very courageous for (Beach) to come out and let his name be known to the world after everything he went through. I wish back then we could have done some different things, knew about some different things, maybe we could have helped him.”

“I don’t know if he wants to hear from us or not, but I’d like to reach out to him and say that I wish I knew more at that time in that situation, if I could’ve done anything to help him out. Obviously, he’s been living with this a long time, and it takes a lot of courage by him to put his name behind the story.”

Jonathan Toews

“Winning the Stanley Cup that year is beside the point. Whether we win or lose…we wish we could take it back and it never happened and young players didn’t have to deal with a situation like that.”

“Not that it was a joke, but it was something that wasn’t taken super seriously at the time. I thought Brad being let go or resigning from the organization was the way it was dealt with. … Had I been more connected to the situation and known some of the more gory details of it, I’d like to say, yeah, I would’ve acted differently in my role as captain.”

“I feel a ton for what Kyle went through and what he’s dealing with at this point, too. I don’t know what else to say. I think the guys that were part of that group all wish they could have done something different.”

“Stan (Bowman) and Al (MacIsaac)…they’re not directly complicit in the activities that happened. It’s not up to me to comment on whether they would like to deal with it differently or not. … I have a lot of respect for them as people. They’re good people.”

“To me, Stan and Al, make any argument you want, they’re not directly complicit in the activities that happened. Regardless of mistakes that may have been made, for someone like Stan, who has done so much for the Blackhawks—and Al, as well—to lose everything they care about and their livelihoods as well…I don’t understand how that makes it go away, to just delete them from existence and (say), ‘That’s it, we’ll never hear from them again.’”

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First period

It did not take long for Dougie Hamilton, the Devils’ big ticket free agent addition this past offseason, to win over his teammates and the hometown crowd, as he scored just 17 seconds into the game. A turnover by Jake McCabe just inside his own blue line, forced by Pavel Zacha, eventually would get to Hamilton in the slot, who knuckled one past Kevin Lankinen to give the Devils a quick 1–0 lead. At the end of one, the Blackhawks and Devils were even in the shots on goal column at six apiece.

Second period

With 1:55 of Blackhawks power play time carried over from the opening frame, Patrick Kane made a pinpoint goal-line feed to a wide open Alex DeBrincat, who buried his first of the young season past Devils goaltender Jonathan Bernier to tie the game at the 51-second mark. On the goal, Tyler Johnson picked up his first point in a Blackhawks uniform.

The Devils regained the lead at 2–1 late in the second period on a spin-o-rama backhand shot by budding superstar Jack Hughes from the left circle that beat a screened Lankinen with just over two minutes left in the frame. The Devils outshot the Blackhawks 13–11 in the second and had a two period advantage of 19–17.

Third period

At 6:34 into the third period, seconds after MacKenzie Entwistle nearly tied it but drew iron, Andreas Johnsson gave the Devils a 3–1 lead. Tomas Tatar fed rookie Dawson Mercer in the right circle, who shot the puck which trickled behind Lankinen, who lost track of it and Johnsson won a foot race to the net with Connor Murphy and tapped it in to give the home team a two-goal cushion. Save that puck for Mercer, as he notched his first career NHL point on the play.

The Hawks cut the deficit to 3–2 on a power play goal by Kirby Dach at 16:07 on a rebound from in front while Mercer was serving a double minor for high sticking and the Hawks’ cage was empty for an extra attacker. 

Late in the third, with the desperate Blackhawks trying to get the equalizer, Seth Jones did a nice job keeping the puck in the Devils’ zone and found Brandon Hagel in the slot, who made a nice feed to Dominik Kubalik, who one-timed it past Bernier to tie the game at 3–3 with 25.5 seconds left in regulation.

Overtime

The Hawks controlled the puck off the face-off, but could not get a shot off thanks to some solid defensive coverage by the Devils. A Kirby Dach pass from behind the net went awry and sent the Devils the other way on a 2-on-1 with Erik Gustafsson in between. Hughes skated around a sprawling Gustafsson and stick-handled Lankinen out of position to give himself a wide open net for the game-winner and his second of the game.

Analysis: The good, the bad and the ugly

The good: Seth Jones bounced back from a poor performance in the opener with a strong game. He played over 26 minutes and it felt like he never left the ice in the third period. His presence was felt all 200 feet and the hope is he can continue to build on his performance.

The bad: The so-called shutdown pair of Jake McCabe and Connor Murphy was anything but that. They were a combined -5 with the tone being set for their rough night just 17 seconds into the game with the McCabe turnover that led to the Devils’ first goal of the season.

The ugly: Everyone’s favorite whipping boy, Erik Gustafsson, was completely fooled by Hughes on the game-winner.

Credit the Blackhawks for a strong comeback in the third from a two-goal deficit to tie the game and grab a point on the road, however, there are still major defensive issues to clean up.

The Hawks head to Pittsburgh for a game on Saturday against the Penguins at PPG Arena. Puck drop is at 6 p.m. CDT and will be broadcast on NHL Network, NBCSCH and on WGN 720.

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The Wild were playing their second game in as many nights on home ice following a 4–3 win in overtime against the St. Louis Blues.

First period

At 7:13 of the opening frame while Calvin De Haan was serving a minor penalty for tripping, the Wild needed just seven seconds of power play time to take a 1–0 lead and continue the Blackhawks’ struggles on the penalty kill. A face-off win by the Wild led to a soft shot by Mats Zuccarello from the slot, which Kevin Lankinen stopped, but Joel Eriksson Ek was alone on the doorstep and buried the rebound.

The Hawks were fortunate to be down 1–0 after one period thanks to Lankinen, who was strong out of the gate. The Wild outplayed and outshot the Hawks 12–8, with most of them being high-quality chances. 

Second period

The Blackhawks came out of the locker room and tilted the ice their way for the first half of the second period. Strong work in the neutral zone led to turnovers and multiple scoring opportunities off the rush. With Connor Murphy in the penalty box for slashing, Lankinen continued his stellar play and kept his team within a goal with four saves on one sequence during a Wild power play that the Hawks would eventually kill off. Lankinen also stopped Marcus Foligno on a breakaway in the final minute of the period.

After two, the Wild still led the Blackhawks 1–0. The Hawks had a 9–8 shots on goal advantage for the period, but the Wild still led in that department 20–17 through two.

Third period

After several scoring chances to open the period, the Blackhawks went on the power play at nearly the five-minute mark when Jared Spurgeon was guilty of tripping MacKenzie Entwistle on a great effort to retrieve the puck from the boards and drive to the net. On the ensuing power play, Kirby Dach made a slap pass from the high left circle to Dylan Strome, who had good positioning on Cam Talbot’s right side and deflected the puck in for the equalizer.

The game remained tied for just 88 seconds, as Kirill Kaprizov shot one from the point, which led to a mad scramble in front and the puck dribbled to the right of Lankinen, where a pinching Alex Goligoski jumped on the rebound to give the Wild a 2–1 lead.

At 13:29, the Blackhawks tied it when Brandon Hagel scored on a penalty shot, faking out Talbot to create a wide-open net for the equalizer. The penalty shot was drawn after Henrik Borgstrom made a perfect pass from just outside the blue line to spring Hagel in alone and was hooked by the Wild’s Matt Dumba after deking Talbot.

With 20.2 seconds left in regulation, former Blackhawk Ryan Hartman was sent to the penalty box for a high sticking minor. The Hawks nearly took the lead with 6.9 seconds left when Adam Gaudette’s wide-open rebound in the slot was backhanded over the net and out of play. The Blackhawks outshot the Wild 12–10 for the period, but Minnesota held a 30–29 edge in regulation.

Overtime

The Hawks began the extra frame with 100 seconds of power play time and nearly won it with the 4-on-3 advantage when Kirby Dach skated to the left of Talbot and floated the puck in between the net and the fallen Wild goaltender to create a yawning cage for Strome, who fanned on the shot then the puck missed the outstretched stick of Jacob Galvas in the slot.

At 2:34, Dumba buried the only registered shot during the extra session with a wrister from the top of the circle that went to the high glove side of Lankinen for the game winner. 

Analysis: The good, the bad and the ugly

The good: Kevin Lankinen was brilliant in this contest, as he single-handedly kept the Blackhawks in the game the entire night. He looked much more confident by challenging shooters, however, I would like to see him continue to improve in rebound control.

Jakub Galvas continued to be one of training camp’s biggest surprises. He played over 14 solid minutes and notched an assist on Dylan Strome’s power play goal. He skates well with the puck and appears to have a solid hockey IQ.

Okay, I confess. Strome played really well in this game, which he needed to do if he wanted any chance to start the season in Chicago. In addition to his goal, Strome was strong in the dot winning nine of 15 face-offs.

Henrik Borgstrom had another strong game. His creativity with the puck was on display on numerous occasions playing on the wing alongside Kirby Dach and Brandon Hagel.

Speaking of that Hagel fella, I think we have run out of ways to describe the value he brings to the Hawks every night. The guy can simply do everything and can play up and down the lineup.

The bad: The pair of Jake McCabe and Connor Murphy had a rough night defensively. They gave up a ton of high-quality scoring chances and had trouble defending the Wild’s top line of Joel Eriksson Ek, Kirill Kaprizov and Mats Zuccarello. Perhaps it is just a matter of building chemistry with each other, but time will tell.

The ugly: That darn penalty kill, which gave up a goal just seven seconds into a man advantage for the Wild. At that time, the Hawks had only killed one of their last six shorthanded opportunities. On the positive side, the Hawks took one more minor penalty for the game, which they killed off. I guess it is something to build on.

The Blackhawks return to the United Center on Saturday night to face the Wild in their final preseason game. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. CDT and will be broadcast on NBCSCH and on WGN 720.

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McDavid, Austin Matthews, Mitch Marner and others are playing golf right now.

It is time for Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen, Gabriel Landeskog and Cale Makar to show they are different.

It seems big to say this is career defining for MacKinnon, but it could well be. The greatest players raise their game when they are needed; they do not shy away. The Avs desperately need No. 29 to deliver right now.

Does he prove he is better than those Oilers and Leafs mentioned, or is this another postseason failure and another question mark over this current Colorado roster?

The Avs’ top unit needs to find a way to win battles

Look over the past two games in Las Vegas. At 5-on-5, the Avalanche top line has struggled. There is an argument to be made that this actually started in Colorado back in Game 2, but it has certainly happened in Games 3 and 4.

Missing: Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen and Gabe Landeskog

If found, please return to T-Mobile Arena.

— Scott MacDonald (@0ffScottFree) June 7, 2021

They have to find a way to win battles and get on the scoreboard. If you look at how the games have gone recently, the Vegas Golden Knights have used their second line to destroy the Avalanche, especially in Game 4.

The plays they have made have won games, because the top lines have pretty much canceled each other out. For the Golden Knights, that is fine, because they are winning the battle below.

For the Avalanche, it is not fine, because without Nazem Kadri and with Andre Burakovsky struggling for form, all of a sudden, the players who are normally capable in a second line matchup are few and far between.

MacKinnon and his desire to win

Anyone who has heard MacKinnon talk will know he has a huge desire to win and he wants to be the best. At times over the years, this determination to win has dragged the Avs through some rough patches.

But, that has all been in the regular season. Now, he needs to do it in the postseason.

Look back at the playoff failures during his time with the Avalanche, and we have relatively fair excuses for them all.

This time around, it is different; there are no excuses. MacKinnon needs to find his competitive streak, his willingness to win and drag his team through to the next round.

The ability to do this is why many see him as being better than the players mentioned at the top of this piece. Now it is time for him to prove that being right.

It's time for the Colorado Avalanche to take the next step. And what I mean by that is to start playing the Super Mario sound effects whenever Nathan MacKinnon gets the puck. pic.twitter.com/cdeBvlVKKH

— Mike Kelly (@MikeKellyNHL) June 2, 2021

The leadership of Landeskog

Despite not winning a Stanley Cup yet, many fans will talk about Landeskog and his leadership abilities very highly.

He is respected in the room, in the media and by the fans. He is also out of his contract this summer, and will no doubt be looking for a raise.

The Avs will give him that, if he proves capable of leading a team to victory in the playoffs. There is nothing wrong with putting together a very expensive core group of players.

Where this can go wrong is if you get the wrong core together, and you have so much money tied up on players who cannot win in the playoffs, seemingly like Toronto has done.

Colorado needs more from Landeskog in this series. He needs to show that he can lead this team, set an example and ensure the others follow.

Where is the mad moose?

More often than not, we see the best of Rantanen when he is angry, with a point to prove and with something big on the line.

Colorado is in the divisional final round of the playoffs, either going to the final four or heading to the golf course.

Rantanen should not need firing up for the rest of this series with so much on the line, but it feels like he does right now.

Despite their size, he has the ability to physically dominate this Vegas defense, but he needs to get on the puck, get angry and play with a big-game mentality.

The #Avs top line (Landeskog-MacKinnon-Rantanen) hasn't had a 5-on-5 goal in eight periods of hockey.

— Peter Baugh (@Peter_Baugh) June 7, 2021

The Makar X-factor

Go all the way back to Game 1 of the series, one which the Avs dominated.

During that game, a number of different defenseman jumped into the play and got involved in the rush. Since then, that has not happened too often, but needs to return.

Turning defense to attack in a couple of seconds is what Makar is good at. Whether it is a threaded pass through the neutral zone, a breakout with the puck or something else special, this is what Makar is on the roster to do.

That needs to get back in his game, as the Golden Knights have shown that they struggle on the rush. Makar needs to take advantage of that.

Makar may play defense, but his ability to drive the Avs forward is why he is so vital to the roster. It is time to go out, play an expansive game and dominate.

Can the Avalanche win this series?

Let’s finish on a positive! Of course the Avs can win this series.

The team is an excellent one. Right now, they are up against another very good hockey team; let’s not forget Vegas tied Colorado for points in the regular season.

But, that does not matter. What this series comes down to is three games, and two of them are played at Ball Arena.

On home ice, the Avalanche can beat anyone in the world. I genuinely believe that.

Two wins and Colorado is through!

The post It is time for Colorado’s big four to stand up and play appeared first on The Rink.

Six games, three assists and a +5 rating have been thoroughly deserved; Newhook has landed on the team, looked comfortable and involved himself in the middle six. He has done enough to earn a spot as we go into the playoffs, but with the return of Brandon Saad looming, where can Newhook fit and remain effective?

Here is a rundown of the four options open to the Avs as they look to bring Saad back in and keep their rookie in the lineup.

How about Alex Newhook with 2 assists tonight??

— Kyle Keefe (@kylekeefetv) May 11, 2021

Third-line winger — Keep Newhook where he is now

The 2019 first-round pick has been moved around the lineup during his six games, but a good part of that time has been spent as a winger on the third line. Keeping Newhook in that position would bring familiarity for him, and allow him to just keep rolling.

This would likely be alongside Tyson Jost and Valeri Nichushkin, although the Avalanche could play Saad here, and push Nichushkin to the fourth line. The other option would be for Saad to jump back onto the second line, push Donskoi on the third and then Nichushkin onto the fourth.

All three options give Newhook two skilled players to play with, so he should still be in a position to be effective offensively and continue to generate chances. It seems as though a first NHL goal is just around the corner, and of the four options here, this is the one that would give him the best shot of getting one.

At least for the first two games in Colorado, this is where I would play Newhook, giving him the chance to shine and further cement his position while remaining in an attacking role.

First NHL point for Newhook!#BudLightCelly #GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/WLAzve1TM2

— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) May 8, 2021

Third-line center — His most effective position

Eventually, over the next year or two, the Canadian forward will move to center, and this will likely be the position he plays for his entire NHL career. Further down the line, it is hoped that he will be the natural second-line center replacement for Nazem Kadri. If that is the case, then should the Avalanche look to use him as a permanent center right now?

I like the idea of this, and it is my second choice from these four, but it does have one big downside, which would be a likely demotion to the fourth line for Tyson Jost. Jost does not deserve that, as he has been excellent all season, especially recently, but it is the only way to make this fit.

Adding Jost to the fourth unit would give it some energy, something that has been missing with no Matt Calvert and Logan O’Connor in the lineup. It would also give Newhook a little more responsibility, by centering a unit with no other centerman—we have previously seen him have the luxury of Kadri alongside to help with center duties.

This would likely put Newhook in the middle of two of Nichushkin, Saad and Donskoi, so would again give him two skilled players to play with, and maintain his attacking presence.

I do not like this as much as the option above, mainly because of the impact it has on Jost. He does not deserve to lose ice time, even if he would offer a boost of energy to the fourth line.

Fourth-line role — Can this work?

When the Avalanche called Newhook up to the main roster, I was against him playing in a fourth-line role. If the Avs want the best from him, he needs to play his natural game and play to his strengths. Being put in a fourth-line role would not do that.

However, it would keep him on the ice, which for many people now is far more important than where he plays because of the impact he has made. The downside here is that his linemates would be a combination of Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, J.T. Compher and Carl Soderberg. None of these players can really be described as consistently skilled even though they have shown glimpses recently.

Their style of play would be something new, and not something that would be guaranteed to suit. However, just as I mentioned earlier about Jost adding energy to the fourth line, Newhook would do the same.

Of the three scenarios that keep him in the lineup, this is the one with more questions than answers—we simply do not know how Newhook would fit on the fourth unit and if he would be able to maintain his current form.

Great pass from @AlexNewhook_ to J.T. Compher for a big @Avalanche goal. pic.twitter.com/MGvYI5ROqf

— NHL (@NHL) May 11, 2021

Take Newhook out of the lineup?

The final option for Colorado Head Coach Jared Bednar would be to take Newhook out of the lineup. I would be surprised to see this happen straight away, and also disappointed. If Newhook is to come out of the lineup, the only way I could see this happening is if he moves down to the fourth line and this does not work, with no place for him in the top nine.

Regardless of how it happens, it would no doubt bring disappointment for many fans. However, it would also highlight the type of player that Newhook is going to be for this club in the future.

He is not a fourth-line player; he needs to be playing alongside other skilled members of this team, and unfortunately for him, the team we currently have is stacked with those.

I am hoping that the 16th overall pick keeps his place in the lineup, preferably somewhere in the middle six. He is edging toward a first NHL goal, and has already shown his worth to the team. If he does not though, try not to worry too much, because this is only the beginning for his NHL career, and we are going to be seeing a lot more of Newhook in the very near future.

The post Where does Alex Newhook fit when Brandon Saad returns? appeared first on The Rink.

Following an exciting 6–3 victory over the Dallas Stars in Game Five to extend the series and avoid elimination, the Colorado Avalanche will be looking to force a pivotal Game Seven when they take on the Stars Wednesday at 6 p.m.

With both Philipp Grubauer and Pavel Francouz out of the lineup, the Avalanche went with Michael Hutchinson in Game Five, with Hunter Miska as the backup. While Hutchinson did make a few solid saves later in the game, the Avalanche made a statement by scoring five goals in the first period to help come away with the 6–3 victory.

Avs forwards Nathan MacKinnon tallied two points (one goal, one assist) in the 6–3 victory over the Stars, extending his playoff point streak to 13 games. MacKinnon currently leads the league with 23 points (eight goals,15 assists). Along with MacKinnon, Andre Burakovsky had himself a strong night, tallying three points (two goals, one assist) in the victory.

Along with MacKinnon, some of the other Avs who currently ride their own respective point streaks are Mikko Rantanen (eight games), Cale Makar (four games), Burakovsky (three games) and Nazem Kadri (three games).

to a 4 goal lead!#NHLonSN pic.twitter.com/6DHubIQgJo

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) September 1, 2020

According to Colorado head coach Jared Bednar, the Avs are still “grumpy” about where they stand in the series, which is exactly how they were heading into Game Five. With Bednar keeping his roster plans under lock and key, no one really has a solid idea of what the roster will look like against the stars for Game Six.

Bednar says the #Avs still remain grumpy and are not happy with where they remain in the series. #Avs

— Ryan S. Clark (@ryan_s_clark) September 2, 2020

I usually do a player, or players, to watch section here, but honestly, this is going to come down to so many different factors it is hard to just pick one particular player from each team. Expect the Avalanche to come out similar to how they came out in Game Five—pissed off and absolutely flying. On the other side, I think we can all expect the Stars to expect this from the Avs, and they will continue to try to have a physical presence throughout the game.

Get your popcorn and soda, ladies and gentlemen. Game Six will be another nail-biter.

The post Preview: Avs look to force Game Seven against Dallas appeared first on The Rink.

Before the postseason, Olli Maata was tabbed as a likely buyout candidate. By all accounts, he had a pretty solid series against the Vegas Golden Knights and now may be sticking around regardless of his hefty price tag. We can all whine about Brent Seabrook’s contract, but he will be back and that is that. Duncan Keith will be still be in the fold. Adam Boqvist will continue to grow as a player, and Calvin de Haan will likely return. Slater Koekkoek is now a restricted free agent, and if the Hawks are trying to make room for highly touted prospect Ian Mitchell, then we may have seen the last of Koekkoek and Bowman could deal his rights. Sure, Bowman could keep him with a cheaper deal and then have Koekkoek and Lucas Carlsson round out No. 7 and 8 on the depth chart and leave it at that.

But, that is exactly what that would be, “leaving it at that.” Candidly speaking, other than a possible marginal upgrade with Mitchell in the mix (though he is hardly a can’t-miss prospect), the Hawks’ blue line will again be mediocre, they will be outshot frequently and will need to rely on their goaltending and offense to win games. So, barring a much-needed shakeup in the back, which may or may not happen, that is what we are looking at.

So, what does that mean for the rearguards of Rockford? Well, one thing that Bowman has prioritized in recent years is the acquisition of defensive prospects. Some will argue he has drafted and acquired too many that are of the same style. I am of that mindset as well, but there is some significant talent in the bunch, and the 2020–21 Rockford IceHogs could have players in a defensive unit with with realistic NHL aspirations.

Rockford has some holes to fill on defense, with some from last year’s squad up for contract who likely will not be re-signed. T.J. Brennan and Ian McCoshen will most likely not be back and the same can possibly be said for Joni Tuulola. In addition, some recent later-round draft picks by Bowman will not be signed. 2019 seventh-round pick Cole Moberg will head back to Prince George for his final year in the WHL, which is smart for him. Roope Laavainen, a 2017 fourth-round draft choice, has signed a pro deal in the IPK second division in Finland. 2017 fifth-round selection Jakub Galvas has signed in Finland with Mikkelin Jukuritt. Alex Vlasic, a solid 6-foot-6 second-round prospect from the class of 2019, will most likely be skating for Boston University for the next two seasons. None of those names will be seen anytime soon. But, while those guys may factor in at some point or never, there are assets under contract who will be skating 90 minutes northwest of Chicago. Where do they fit in? Let’s take a look.

Lucas Carlsson — LHD

Let’s assume that Mitchell lives up to the hype machine and immediately makes the Hawks’ roster out of camp. Well, many fans want to see Carlsson as a permanent fixture with the big club as well. He is included on this list is even if that is indeed the case, as under the current defensive structure, he may still see some time in the AHL next season. Carlsson is a smooth skater that moves the puck well, can provide some offense and plays responsibly in his own end. In a mere six games with the Hawks this past season, he was steady. If Bowman and Jeremy Colliton do not plan on playing him, and have him around to practice and sit in the press box for games, that makes little sense. If Maatta is bought out, the window is open for Carlsson, unless the Hawks go shopping. With two strong seasons under his belt in Rockford, it is time for the Hawks to get serious about this player or look to move him.

Lucas Carlsson carries the puck during a Rockford IceHogs game. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Dennis Gilbert — LHD

Known for his toughness and adding a spark when he is in the lineup in Chicago, Gilbert is easy to root for. He played 21 games with the big club last season, but candidly, if he plays more than that in Chicago next season, it will be clear that the Hawks are really struggling. The kid has a ton of heart, but his long-term prognosis is most likely to be an AHL regular. For Rockford, ultimately he will have the chance to be a leader and could be a solid contributor for any AHL team for a long time. He will see some games in the NHL this season, but it is hard envision that with regularity.

Hard-nosed Dennis Gilbert could see another season of shuttling back and forth from Rockford to Chicago. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Blackhawks)

Nicolas Beaudin — LHD

Beaudin will likely need another full year in Rockford, and then it will be make-or-break time for him. Some think we are already there and would like to see him dealt now for team upgrades in the event he does not pan out. He is not big at 5-foot-10, is only 20 years old and showed last season that he does need to refine his defensive habits and his skating before progressing to the NHL. Posting 15 points and a minus-5 rating in Rockford last season is evidence of that. There is upside and another season in Rockford will do him well, but is this recent first-round pick expendable? Perhaps.

First round pick Nicolas Beaudin is one of two #Blackhawks making an NHL debut tonight at the United Center. pic.twitter.com/2KhMfDas72

— Eric Lear (@EricLear312) March 11, 2020

Chad Krys — LHD

With the signing of Wyatt Kalynuk this summer, excluding Carlsson, that is the three left-handed defensive prospects of the same mold: mobile, offensive, undersized and not refined defensively. Unfortunately, Krys is one of those three, and you begin to wonder where his next stop will be professionally. He is similar to fellow BU alum Adam Clendening, where you want to like him but his limitations prevent that. For Rockford, Krys could have a very good year. The 2016, second-round pick will be a third-year pro and is a good enough skater at the AHL level. Still, his gap control and his in-zone play need attention. He will not be ready to make the jump to the NHL in 2020–21 and you start to wonder if he ever will, considering the logjam of prospects at his position. When Bowman is considering moves this offseason, do not be surprised to see his name involved in a potential trade.

Chad Krys plays a similar style to a number of young defensemen in the system, which may limit his prospects within the organization. (Photograph courtesy of the Texas Stars)

Wyatt Kalynuk — LHD

There was a lot of buzz about this kid when he signed with the Hawks in July. Kalynuk has elite skating ability. When he skates forward, he flies and creates an enormous amount of offense. That will be exciting to see as a first year pro in Rockford. What he was unable to prove at the NCAA level is having the ability to win 50/50 pucks in his own end. The AHL is still an upgrade from the Big 10, and he will have some work to do, unless the intentions are to groom him solely into a power play specialist. There has been excitement about Kalynuk and it is warranted, but a full year in the “A” is necessary.

"A good, well-rounded player that I think has a good opportunity to step in and contribute at the NHL level."

Assistant General Manager Mark Eaton shares his thoughts on new #Blackhawks defenseman Wyatt Kalynuk. pic.twitter.com/NEDGOlKlbk

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) July 18, 2020

Alec Regula — RHD

Of all the current defensive prospects in the treasure chest for the Blackhawks, this may be the one with the most upside. I do not traditionally bet against London Knight alums coached by Dale Hunter, and I would not bet against this one either. I am not sure what Steve Yzerman was thinking when handing over Alec Regula for Brendan Perlini last fall, but that is his and Detroit’s problem. Regula is big, tough, right-handed, can skate and can provide offense. He tallied 60 points in 56 games in his final season in London, and while Mitchell could win fan popularity contests in the future, Regula could be an anchor for the Hawks down the road. He is 6-foot-4, 205 pounds and is still figuring it out, but has a high ceiling. Yes, he will more than likely see a full year in Rockford, but if he continues to progress at the rate he has the last few years, he will be in Chicago before we know it.

BREAKING: #Blackhawks sign Alec Regula to entry level deal
by @PuckinHostile#HockeyTwitter #BlackhawksProspects #Rinkrats https://t.co/foVPxxGB0O

— The Rink – Hockey coverage (@TheRinkOfficial) November 11, 2019

Rockford still has a few gaps on the back end and one or two right-handed defensemen will most likely be inked before the AHL season commences in December. Nick Seeler may very well play a few games in Rockford, but if the Hawks hang on to him, he will most likely be with the big club in a very limited role.

As always, the NCAA is a solid feeding ground for AHL talent and there are some strong rearguards that can contribute to the Hogs. Among the promising blue liners that are unsigned are some of the following:

Josh Maniscalco — RHD (Arizona State)              

Maniscalco is a rock. At the completion of his sophomore year at ASU, he registered 11 goals and 21 assists in 36 games. Though a rising junior, he is undrafted, and with so much uncertainty facing college hockey, luring him into a professional contract is worth considering. At 6-foot-1 and 200 pounds, he is a legitimate professional prospect and ultimately, the NHL is not out of reach for him.

Connor Moore — RHD (Boston College)

For four seasons, Moore played in every situation for the Eagles. He can kill penalties, contribute on the power play and his gap control and willingness to battle for loose pucks are among his attributes. Had the season not been cancelled for him and his third-ranked Eagles, a Frozen Four appearance could have been in the cards, and he may have be penned to a deal by now. He could be a player that would fill a nice roll with the other prospects in Rockford.

Four-year Boston College letterman Connor Moore could be a useful addition to the Rockford IceHogs. (Photograph courtesy of DistinctAthlete)

Mike Lee — LHD (Sacred Heart)

Sacred Heart had a season for the ages and was NCAA-bound for the first time in program history. Lee was a big reason for that. 33 points in 32 games and a left-handed defenseman that can play both sides. He could be useful for the Hogs in 2020–21, and could be a decent contributor for a few seasons.

The post ANALYSIS: Assessing the Rockford IceHogs’ blue line for 2020–21 appeared first on The Rink.

Though the score for the third game in the series was 4-2 Coyotes, the game also saw the Avalanche playing some of their best hockey of the series. They ended with 51 shots on goal following an offensive effort that was stopped only by the incredible play of Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper.

To secure Game Four, the Avs will need to approach the entire game with the same level of intensity we saw previously and they will need to clean up the defensive errors that cost them late in the game, like the empty-net goal that came just prior to an Avs goal that could have tied things up:

Thank you for this, Taylor. pic.twitter.com/sOufwEbLJ5

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) August 15, 2020

Again, solving Kuemper will be a priority. Without him, the Coyotes would not pose nearly as much of a threat. The Avs will need to throw everything they have at him in the hopes of breaking through. Keeping the puck in Arizona’s end will need to be the move to get on the board, as Arizona has done a decent job of limiting breakout chances from the skill players on the Avs.

Though Joonas Donskoi played last game despite initially being listed as day-to-day, Vladislav Namestnikov did not take the ice. He is still considered day-to-day, so he likely will not be in the lineup for Monday’s game.

Pavel Francouz, who made his official playoffs debut in Game Three, stopped 21 of the 23 shots he faced — two of the goals being empty-netters at the end of the game. We will likely see starter Philipp Grubauer back in net for Game Four, as Francouz didn’t have the kind of performance that would wrest the starting position away.

Players to watch

Andre Burakovsky has been playing well recently, with five points in his last five games. He opened the scoring for the Avs last game, sinking a laser from the blue line. With the Avs powerplay lackluster in the postseason, his goal served to invigorate the team and opened the offensive onslaught late in the game. Several players on the Avalanche have had issues shooting the puck, preferring to take the pass or handle the puck — if Burakovsky can continue throwing his skills at the net, he can easily be a big impact player going forward.

A few more of these, please.#GoAvsGo https://t.co/TFfCA6SQhy

— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) August 15, 2020

The Arizona top line stepped up in a big way last game, combining for two of the four goals. The first goal of the game came courtesy of Derek Stepan, with an excellent setup by Clayton Keller behind the net. Arizona doesn’t tend to generate meaningful offense without this line on the ice, so I would expect to see them leading the charge as the Coyotes look to even the series in Game Four.

Great setup, great goal. pic.twitter.com/9BpZ20r7Fh

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) August 15, 2020

The post Preview: Avalanche look to reclaim the series appeared first on The Rink.

Prior to the start of the game, there was an interesting turn of events in warmups. Marc-Andre Fleury was announced as the starter for Vegas instead of former Blackhawk Robin Lehner.

Additionally, Paul Stastny and Tomas Nosek were ruled “unfit to play” for Vegas, while Max Pacioretty returned after missing Game Two. For the Blackhawks, Adam Boqvist, who turned 20 on Saturday, returned to the lineup after being a healthy scratch on Thursday.

Despite the decent start to the first period, the Blackhawks let a poor play put them down a goal. On the power play, Duncan Keith mishandled the puck at the blue line and Mark Stone was right there, ready to grab possession. Stone skated along the boards, dished a pass over to a wide-open William Karlsson and the Swede backhanded the puck over Corey Crawford‘s blocker to give the Golden Knights a 1–0 lead.

Wild Bill

It's a #VegasBorn shorty. #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/tWaaHkuqye

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) August 16, 2020

After falling behind early on, the Blackhawks played better the rest of the first period. Kirby Dach had a great shorthanded opportunity and then drew a penalty with five minutes remaining. Alex DeBrincat had a few great chances on the power play. Patrick Kane hit the post despite having a wide-open net.

DeBrincat had another fantastic opportunity to score on the power play in the second period, but barely missed on the backhand. Halfway through the period, Crawford robbed Nate Schmidt on a Vegas power play. A few minutes later, the Hawks’ goaltender made another great save on Nicolas Roy‘s backhand to keep Chicago in the game.

Big glove save by Corey Crawford. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/OpyMLdy7zd

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) August 16, 2020

Once again, DeBrincat had more chances to get the puck in the net, but Fleury stoned him twice in a span of 30 seconds. DeBrincat had six shots on goal through two periods.

As the second stanza progressed, the Golden Knights began to turn their game up a few notches. They had ample opportunities to score in the last 10 minutes of the period. With 4:37 left, the Blackhawks turned the puck over in the offensive zone, leading to a Vegas rush up the ice. While Alex Tuch could not put the puck past Crawford, Patrick Brown did on the rebound and doubled the Golden Knights’ lead to 2–0 heading into the third period.

The first career #StanleyCup Playoff goal for Patrick Brown.

Have a night! #VegasBorn pic.twitter.com/XGRZDBBavG

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) August 16, 2020

The Blackhawks put on the pressure during the third period, creating chance after chance and maintaining offensive zone time. It all paid off when Drake Caggiula sent a pass to Olli Matta to create a rush up the ice six minutes into the final frame. Maatta simply threw a wrist shot at Fleury, and it squeaked through the goaltender’s arm to cut the lead for Vegas to 2–1.

*screams*
HOLY MAATTA

Watch live on @NBCSChicago: https://t.co/mfQ1ZBTGTC pic.twitter.com/DbckosxRri

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 16, 2020

Despite all the pushes to tie the game throughout the rest of the period, the Blackhawks could not get another puck past Fleury. The Golden Knights won the game 2–1 to claim a commanding 3–0 series lead.

Along the Boards

Patrick Kane. Goalpost. That's five for him and 14 for #Blackhawks this postseason.

Unreal. https://t.co/B2fqQfwRLt

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) August 16, 2020

It is not that the Blackhawks are not getting their chances this series, especially in the last two games. Throughout the entire postseason, they have missed the net a lot and hit a lot of posts. Tonight, Kane hit the post twice and brought the total for Chicago to 14. If only they could hit the net instead of a post more often.

Blackhawks PK keeps rolling. 11-for-11 since Game 4 against Edmonton.

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) August 16, 2020

While the power play as been horrid so far, the penalty kill has been a highlight for the Blackhawks during this series. They had multiple good kills in the game and did not allow many chances for the Golden Knights. It is good to see at least one of their special teams doing well.

Alex DeBrincat will have nightmares about this game. #Blackhawks

— Slavko Bekovic (@SBekovic) August 16, 2020

Will he ever. Outside of maybe Crawford, DeBrincat was the best player for the Blackhawks in Game Three. He was doing everything, from stick checking to solid passes to actually putting the puck on net. DeBrincat had a team-high eight shots on goal. He did everything right and just was not rewarded. Hopefully, he can cash in during Game Four.

The Blackhawks will face elimination on Sunday, as they take on the Golden Knights in Game Four at 5:30 p.m. CDT.

The post Along the Boards: Blackhawks defeated by Golden Knights 2–1, fall behind 3–0 in series appeared first on The Rink.

It wasn’t pretty, but the Colorado Avalanche found a way to come away with the Game 2 victory over the Arizona Coyotes with a late third period tally from Avs forward André Burakovsky. With the victory, the Avalanche take a 2-0 series lead and have the opportunity to increase their series lead Saturday at 1 p.m.

Compared to Game One, this was a completely different looking Coyotes squad right from the opening faceoff. They were in your face and constantly held a two-man forecheck that seemed to catch the Avalanche off-guard. However, good playoff teams find a way to win, and that is exactly what the Avalanche were able to do.

After being held without a shot, but finishing Game One with two assists, Avalanche forward Nathan MacKinnon tallied his first goal of the series, as he just seemed to be all over the ice. Tyson Jost tallied a goal of his own, and Phillipp Grubauer made 30 saves to help the Avalanche come away with the victory and extend their series lead over the Coyotes.

“Nobody feels like they have to dominate,” said MacKinnon, who had two assists in Game One. “We’re all trying to chip in. We have such a deep team and we’re ready, hopefully, for a long run. To do that, we need all four lines to be going and they were today.”

Clayton Keller and Michael Grabner scored for the Coyotes, while Coyotes goaltender Darcy Kuemper made 25 saves for the Coyotes.

Avalanche forward Vladislav Namestnikov left the game late in the third period after a collision with MacKinnon and is not deemed day-to-day by Avs head coach Jared Bednar. Joonas Donskoi is also considered day-to-day for the Avalanche.

After a lopsided Game One and a tightly contested Game Two, we can make bets that the Avalanche can expect more of the same style of play from the Coyotes that they saw today. Expect another tightly contested style of game on Saturday.

The post Avalanche take 2-0 series lead with gritty win over Coyotes appeared first on The Rink.

Because the elimination games have already been completed for the West, we now know that the Avs will be facing the Arizona Coyotes for the first round of the playoffs, which begin on August 11.

Hey, @ArizonaCoyotes, see you next week!#GoAvsGo pic.twitter.com/OrAn6b7Taa

— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) August 8, 2020

First Period

In terms of scoring, this game started out quietly. Neither team managed to net a goal during the first period, despite passing penalties back and forth. The first third of the game was slow, with both teams seeming to take the time to feel each other out. The result of that hesitant style of play was a lot of time spent in the neutral zone, with no real sustained pressure around the nets.

The Avalanche went 0-for-3 on the powerplay in the first period, which was to be a grim glimpse into how the special teams would perform for the rest of the game. They were unable to get set up around the net, though they had a few good looks, including one shot by captain Gabriel Landeskog that struck iron.

Second Period

Things started to heat up in the middle frame of this game. Jonathan Marchessault opened the scoring 1:34 into the period. The goal came on the powerplay, resulting from Avs star Nathan MacKinnon receiving a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct after exchanging a few words with the referees. It was a completely unnecessary penalty to take and it seemed to set the stage for how the Avalanche would continue to perform.

Perhaps to redeem the goal allowed on his penalty, MacKinnon then answered with a goal of his own, burying a messy backhand at 6:46, in the sole Avalanche powerplay goal of the game.

A little backhanded action!#GoAvsGo https://t.co/vh6GKcYAWB

— x – Colorado Avalanche (@Avalanche) August 8, 2020

Vegas responded by netting another goal, this one by Nicolas Roy at 12:55 of the period. The Avalanche then tied it back at 2-2 when Joonas Donskoi buried the rebound off of a shot by J.T. Compher. This goal, like the earlier goal by MacKinnon, was characterized by a scramble in front of the net rather than the skilled shots the Avalanche usually take during games.

Third Period

Historically, the third period can either make or break the game for the Avalanche. In this game, it was the latter. This was another messy period with nothing much to celebrate. Through the full game, the Avs were consistently handling the puck far too much, neglecting to shoot.

Marchessault scored his second goal of the game on a penalty shot, courtesy of a tripping call on Avalanche defenseman Ryan Graves early in the third period. It was a poor play, showing the speed issues which occasionally cause Graves to scramble in his own end when faced with a breakaway.

parfait #VegasBorn | @Raising_Canes pic.twitter.com/HLYnWpJiDl

— Vegas Golden Knights (@GoldenKnights) August 8, 2020

Colorado managed to tie the game up with about one minute left to play. Compher buried the puck in a move almost identical to the one that resulted in the goal by Donskoi earlier. Regardless of how messy the play was, it was enough to send the game to overtime.

Overtime

The overtime period was a lesson in frustration. Much like the rest of the game, the Avalanche just didn’t shoot the puck, opting instead to handle and pass down the ice. It was no surprise, then, when the Knights won at 4:44 of the overtime period, with Alex Tuch securing the win.

What’s next?

The first round of the playoffs are due to begin the 11th, giving the Avs very little time to work out whatever issues rose to the surface today. They face the Coyotes, a team they went 1-1-0 against during the regular season.

The post Avalanche drop to second seed in overtime loss to Vegas Golden Knights appeared first on The Rink.

After serving a one-game suspension for an illegal check to the head, Drake Caggiula made his way back into the lineup for the Blackhawks. Meanwhile, Oilers defenseman Adam Larsson was ruled “unfit to play” during warmups. Caleb Jones drew into the lineup to replace Larsson, sliding onto the third pairing alongside Matt Benning.

For once, Connor McDavid did not score early in the period to give the Oilers an early lead. Instead, the Blackhawks were the ones to put the puck in the net first. More specifically, Olli Maatta gave Chicago a 1–0 lead just under halfway through the opening frame with a blast from the point.

Voice activated personal assistant, play Chelsea

It was only a Maatta of time before someone got on the board and it's the @NHLBlackhawks first! #EDMvsCHI | #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/u2pyalTeR8

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) August 6, 2020

But, just 30 seconds later, the Oilers tied it up thanks to Hart Trophy nominee Leon Draisaitl. Three Blackhawks were looming behind the goal line and got caught there once the puck found its way to Tyler Ennis, who passed it over to Draisaitl.

They don't call him Neon Leon for nothin'

The Oilers even the score quickly. It's gonna be a good one. pic.twitter.com/qju570iTKY

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) August 6, 2020

After the tying goal, both teams traded a handful of chances. But the Blackhawks had a surplus of golden opportunities in the first period, including three posts. Within the final four minutes of the period, three penalties were called on the Oilers, giving Chicago a five-on-three opportunity they eventually capitalized on.

After Alex DeBrincat found Kirby Dach down low, the rookie tossed the puck in front of the net for Dominik Kubalik. Kubalik could not put it past Edmonton netminder Mikko Koskinen, but the biscuit somehow found its way in off Jonathan Toews‘ foot with 4.2 seconds left in the first period, giving the Blackhawks a 2–1 lead.

Somehow went in. Blackhawks have the lead heading into the 2nd period!

Stream: https://t.co/5Fh2WVMIU9 pic.twitter.com/tQE0BSODY9

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) August 6, 2020

With just under five minutes gone by in the second period, the Oilers found themselves with a couple of good chances in the offensive zone. From the boards, Benning put a slap shot on net. Chicago goaltender Corey Crawford was able to get a piece of that shot, but was unable to corral the rebound. Once again, Draisaitl found the puck and lifted it past Crawford to tie the game at 2–2.

DRAISAITL! AGAIN! #NHLonSN pic.twitter.com/yzHMDkQgrl

— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) August 6, 2020

Edmonton and Chicago exchanged power plays throughout the period, and Brandon Saad hit his second post of the game. Both teams remained fairly undisciplined throughout the rest of the period, which seems to be a theme during this series.

With around three minutes left in the period, Dach laid a hit Ennis, who unfortunately was injured on the play. Ennis, an Edmonton native, left the game without putting any weight on his right leg.

DeBrincat and Benning got into a scrum and both were given infractions just over a minute later. Unfortunately for the Blackhawks, DeBrincat was called for both slashing and roughing, putting Edmonton on the power play.

The Oilers moved the puck well on the advantage and eventually capitalized. Draisaitl tossed the puck to the front of the net. Crawford could not grab the rebound, the puck landed on McDavid’s stick and he gave Edmonton a 3–2 lead heading into the final frame.

You can always count on Connor McDavid to get it done

The @EdmontonOilers take the lead heading into the break. pic.twitter.com/DJakImfRcN

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) August 6, 2020

Things moved a bit faster during the third period. Toews hit the post off a rebound just over four minutes in, narrowly missing out on leveling the score. In total, the Blackhawks hit five posts during the game.

After back and forth action throughout the frame, Chicago found some time in the offensive zone with 5:47 left. Slater Koekkoek took a slap shot close to the blue line. Matthew Highmore deflected it in right by Koskinen to tie the game at 3–3.

BLACKHAWKS TIE IT

You're not going to want to miss the rest of this game, promise:
: NBCSN
: https://t.co/lkz1HvPxNq pic.twitter.com/mMj2OEnKAQ

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) August 6, 2020

In a major turn of events, the Blackhawks were given a gift of a goal. Toews won an offensive-zone face off, allowing Chicago to try and get the puck on net. Connor Murphy snapped it toward goal, hoping for a tip from Toews, and that is exactly what he got. Well, kind of. The puck actually went off Toews’ knee after being deflected by Edmonton defenseman Ethan Bear. Either way, it was a goal, giving the Hawks a 4–3 lead with just over a minute remaining in the game.

Despite some pressure from the Oilers late, Chicago held onto the lead and took a 2–1 series lead.

A stellar face-off win by the Captain sets the @NHLBlackhawks up to take the lead late in Game 3! pic.twitter.com/oiKChbTqUO

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) August 6, 2020

Along the boards

Kirby Dach led all team forwards in ice time at 23:21, which is new a career high. #Blackhawks

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) August 6, 2020

Everyone noticed how good rookie forward Kirby Dach looked during Phase 3 training camp. That has clearly translated into actual game play so far, and he looks fantastic. He is battling along the boards for pucks and planting himself in front of the net on the first power play unit. Dach is doing everything fans want from him, and he is been rewarded by earning more and more ice time every night. So far, he has four points in three games, all of them being assists. Hopefully he gets a goal at some point, because he truly deserves it.

The Blackhawks are 1-for-6 on the power play, and that one goal came on a 5-on-3 and was an accident.

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) August 6, 2020

There is no question the Oilers’ special teams are very good, but Chicago’s power play was abysmal tonight. Outside of the five-on-three conversion, they generated little to no opportunities every time they had a man advantage. In a series that hinges on power play and penalty kill success, this team simply cannot give away prime opportunities when up a man.

https://twitter.com/DimFilipovic/status/1291229556238454784?s=20

There is not much to point out here. It is there for you to see. The Blackhawks have to do a better job at defending the right side of the net. Edmonton is getting most of their chances from this area of the ice. Crawford also needs to do a better job at controlling rebounds. While there was no game plan to plant defenders at this side of the night tonight, there needs to be one going forward or the Blackhawks will find themselves in a lot of trouble.

The Blackhawks and Oilers will be back for Game 4 on NBCSN on Friday. The game is scheduled to begin at 5:45 p.m. CDT.

The post Along the Boards: Blackhawks defeat Oilers 4–3, take 2–1 series lead appeared first on The Rink.

The NHLPA Executive Board authorized further negotiations with the NHL on the league’s “return to play” plan late Friday night. The plan’s format would be an expanded 24-team playoff to determine the 2019-20 Stanley Cup champion.

“The Executive Board of the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) has authorized further negotiations with the NHL on a 24-team return to play format to determine the winner of the 2020 Stanley Cup,” a statement from the NHLPA said. “Several details remain to be negotiated and an agreement on the format would still be subject to the parties reaching agreement on all issues relevant to resuming play.​”

Gabriel Landeskog #92 of the Colorado Avalanche congratulates Pavel Francouz #39 following their 1-0 win over the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center on February 21, 2020 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Debora Robinson/NHLI via Getty Images)

In the 24-team playoff format, the top four seeds in each conference, based on points percentage, qualify for “first-round” byes to begin the postseason. The next eight teams in the Eastern and Western conferences would then play in a best-of-five “play-in” round of the playoffs.

The top four teams in the Eastern Conference (Boston, Tampa Bay, Washington, and Philadelphia) and the top four in the Western Conference (St. Louis, Colorado, Dallas, and Vegas) would play each other to determine the top four seeds while the opening “play-in” round took place for the Eastern and Western seeds five through twelve.

A look at the opening round of the Eastern Conference:

• 5. Pittsburgh vs. 12. Montreal – winner plays the four seed
• 6. Carolina vs. 11. Rangers – winner plays the three seed
• 7. Islanders vs. 10. Florida – winner plays the two seed
• 8. Toronto vs. 9. Columbus – winner plays the one seed

Toronto’s Mitch Marner, left, and Columbus’ Seth Jones fight for the puck during the first period of the Maple Leafs’ 4-1 win against the Blue Jackets. (Jay LaPrete/The Associated Press)

Here is the opening round of the Western Conference:

• 5. Edmonton vs. 12. Chicago – winner plays the four seed
• 6. Nashville vs. 11. Arizona – winner plays the three seed
• 7. Vancouver vs. 10. Minnesota – winner plays the two seed
• 8. Calgary vs. 9. Winnipeg – winner plays the one seed

Photo courtesy of the Chicago Blackhawks.

There is the chance that the return to play format could change once the dust settles, as reported by Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston and The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun:

Even with this affirmative vote, there are still some details with the 24-team playoff format still to be worked out between the NHL and NHLPA. One of them is whether they'll go ahead with a playoff bracket or use reseeding.

— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) May 23, 2020

To recap: the NHLPA has agreed to the format itself even though there are other important issues and elements to negotiate. The NHL now will go through its own process and I would expect some form of announcement within the next few days.

— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) May 23, 2020

The timeline for the NHL to return to play still is undetermined. Important factors like testing, travel, hub cities, etc. are all under consideration. The most important thing the NHL and the NHLPA must ensure is the health and safety of the players, coaches, team personnel, and all those involved in the hosting of the games when the league does return to the ice.

Until then, this is a hopeful step forward for the NHL and hockey fans alike.

The post NHLPA authorizes further negotiations on NHL 24-team return to play format appeared first on The Rink.

The news for letting Peeters’ rights expire comes with far less surprise than letting Gravel go. Peeters was a third-round pick by the Blackhawks in 2016, but fizzled out of the USHL after little more than one season, returning to Europe and playing last season with Guildford in the EIHL in the U.K.

Halifax Mooseheads goaltender Alexis Gravel stands in the net. (Photograph courtesy of the Halifax Mooseheads)

As for Gravel, the former 2018 sixth-round pick by Chicago had a successful career in the QMJHL with the Halifax Mooseheads over the past four years. He appeared in 178 games for the Mooseheads, with a career 3.29 GAA and a .898 save percentage. His best season came two years ago during the 2018-19 campaign, leading the Mooseheads to the QMJHL President’s Cup Final and the CHL Memorial Cup Final, being named to the Memorial Cup tournament’s All-Star team and being named the Memorial Cup tournament’s Most Outstanding Goaltender.

Coming off injury this season, Gravel had a down year from his 2018-19 season, but his body of work still felt promising for the 20-year old to get a shot within the Blackhawks organization. Less than two weeks ago, Gravel posted on a photo on his social media wearing a Blackhawks hat.

First fish of the summer pic.twitter.com/LemOs8NH2g

— Alexis Gravel (@alexis_grave1) May 10, 2020

Now, according to the report, both Gravel and Peeters will see their draft rights expire with Chicago on June 1, making them free agents.

The Blackhawks are left with goaltenders Corey Crawford and Malcolm Subban at the NHL level, with both having contracts expiring this summer. At the AHL level, Collin Delia, Matt Tomkins, and Kevin Lankinen all played with the Rockford IceHogs this past season and all are on the books for 2020-21, with Delia and Lankinen having contracts through the 2021-22 season.

Chicago still holds the rights to Russian goaltender Ivan Nalimov, who signed a PTO with the IceHogs late this past season, but never played in a game, and to 2019 sixth-round draft pick Dominic Basse, who played last season in the USHL with the Youngstown Phantoms and is expected to play in the USHL again next season before heading to Colorado College.

It is probable that the Blackhawks will draft another goaltender in this year’s Entry Draft, potentially with their first-round pick as Russian goaltender Yaroslav Askarov is projected to be available when Chicago is on the clock. Granted, draft position is still not locked in yet, but as it currently stands Askarov will likely be available around picks eight, nine, and ten in the first round.

The post Report: Blackhawks not expected to sign goaltenders Gravel, Peeters appeared first on The Rink.

On Tuesday, IceHogs head coach Derek King and team captain Tyler Sikura addressed the cancellation of the season and the outlook for the league and the team ahead in dual conference calls.

For King, the finish to his first full season as a head coach was a disappointment.

“I liked where we were at coming down the stretch,” King said. “We had our heads above water and I felt like a playoff spot was in our reach. Overall, I’m upset the way things ended, but I’m really happy with the way we played this year and really proud of our guys.”

After taking over the reigns of the IceHogs last season after the firing of Joel Quenneville and promotion of Jeremy Colliton, King was able to have a full offseason at the helm this past summer and came into the year with high hopes for the IceHogs.

As the year progressed, injuries to key players like Philipp Kurahsev and the departure of veterans Philip Holm and Kris Versteeg gave the IceHogs some roster adversities to overcome.

“We dealt with a lot of injuries this season, I don’t know why,” King said. “But, I liked the way our guys battled through those all year. I said this year that our team was too dumb to quit. We just kept battling. I’m proud of our guys and when we get to doing these exit interviews, everything is going very positive from me to them.”

Derek King gives instruction during a Rockford IceHogs game. (Photograph courtesy of the Texas Stars)

With the NHL season still potentially resuming, King spoke about which players surprised him this season, and who he believed might make a rumored expanded 30-man NHL roster for the Chicago Blackhawks if or when the season begins again.

“You’ll get a chance to see guys who were up there when the season was put on hold like Brandon Hagel (and) Lucas Carlsson,” King said. “You have Dylan Sikura that could still go up and MacKenzie Entwistle, too, that played big roles for us this year. Defensively, you can look at a guy like Dennis Gilbert. There’s plenty of bodies available for (Chicago), but who they might take, I’m not sure.”

The Rockford IceHogs celebrate Philip Kurashev’s (center, 25) goal. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

King went on to mention a number of rookies who stood out to him this season, including Entwistle, Hagel and Kurashev.

King noted that he feels like a healthy Kurashev can be an NHL player in one or two years.

“He acts like a pro, he plays like a pro, handles himself like one,” King said. “He has a chance to be a special player.”

One of the more interesting storylines for the IceHogs this season was carrying three healthy goalies on the active roster for most of the season.

Collin Delia, Kevin Lankinen and Matt Tomkins split ice time three-ways this year for the IceHogs in net up until a season-ending injury to Lankinen late in the year.

“We were skeptical early on whether we could pull off a three-goalie rotation,” King said of the trio of netminders. “We felt it was the right thing to do for our team, though. We felt all three guys deserved to be playing in the AHL and be getting that level of competition.”

As far as the rotation of the goalies, King said he left that fully up to goaltending coach Peter Aubry.

“Pete did a great job with them all season,” King said. “We would talk about who’s ready to go and hash it out; I don’t think once this season we had a time where I said, ‘Let’s go back to another guy,’ that we weren’t planning on going back with. For the most part, Pete had his hands on the whole thing and he did a great job with them.”

Collin Delia (left) celebrates with Kevin Lankinen (right) after a win over the Grand Rapids Griffins. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

The IceHogs were able to benefit early on in the season from the trio of goalies. When Delia was off to a slow start, Lankinen and Tomkins were able to hold their own. When Delia re-emerged at the top of the depth chart, and Lankinen went down with injury, Tomkins stepped in again and found success behind Delia.

The IceHogs went through a number of roster changes this season, but none may have been a bigger blow than the early retirement of Versteeg. Coming back to the Blackhawks organization after reviving his career in Europe, Versteeg joined the IceHogs on an AHL contract and looked like he was back to his prior NHL form as he played through Chicago’s training camp.

Versteeg was named Rockford’s team captain prior to the beginning of the season and was poised to be a veteran mentor and possibly lead the IceHogs’ offensive attack. Six games into the season, Versteeg aggravated a lower-body injury, missed games and eventually came to the decision that he could no longer perform to the level that was expected of him, choosing to leave the team in November.

Stepping up in the role of team captain was veteran winger Tyler Sikura. On and off the ice, Sikura led the young IceHogs roster and enjoyed a bounce-back year on the ice.

“The situation with Kris wasn’t easy and making the move on from him being part of the team was unexpected,” King said. “It was a little unfair to Tyler, too. Here we were saying, ‘No, you’re not going to be the captain,’ to, ‘You’re the guy now.’ It wasn’t easy for him at first. But, wearing a letter or not, (Tyler) was always a leader for us and a mentor to the younger guys. It was a no-brainer at that point to make Tyler the captain.”

Sikura ended the 2019–20 season as the IceHogs’ team leader in points, tallying 14 goals and 20 assists while playing in all 63 games.

Though proving to be a bounce-back year for Sikura, it ended without the full realization of a season and team that could have had something special.

“As a player, you still held out hope that something could have been done to finish the season,” Sakura said. “You want to see a finish to what you put so much hard work into, but there are bigger things than hockey right now. We felt like we had a team that could go on a nice run late in the year—we were getting healthy and getting guys back at the right time—just unfortunate to not have a chance to see what we could have done.”

After dealing with injuries in the 2018–19 season, Sikura put together a solid season with the IceHogs in 2019–20, making the end to the year easier to handle for him personally.

“It’s a bit easier to swallow knowing that I was able to have the kind of year that I did,” Sikura said. “Last year, I wasn’t able to find a groove and wasn’t able to be the player that I know I could be. I have confidence in myself and this year proved to me that I know what I am capable of. It was encouraging for myself.”

Tyler Sikura and Ian McCoshen talk during a stoppage of play. (Photograph courtesy of the Laval Rocket)

Speaking from a player’s perspective, Sikura is in the boat of wanting to get back to the ice as soon as possible and would have been in favor of finishing the season over the summer if the AHL had come to that decision.

But, now officially in offseason mode, Sikura is like many players, displaced from their team facilities and trying to piece together a summer workout routine at home.

“I haven’t been able to skate since the season was put on hold,” Sikura said. “This time has to be up there with the longest I’ve gone without being on the ice. Luckily, most everyone is in the same boat, so you just have to navigate how your workouts are going to look.”

Sikura added the biggest thing for him is being creative with workouts and being able to do a little bit every day just to keep his sanity while waiting to get back on the ice.

Off the ice, Sikura has been a leader for the team and for the local Rockford community. He led a team-orchestrated GoFundMe campaign for Rockford-area healthcare workers to help them during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It wasn’t surprising to see the response from the community to the GoFundMe,” Sikura said. “The fans are very loyal to their community and we are very happy and grateful to those who have donated. It helps with the sense of helplessness that I’ve felt at times during this, and, even if it’s just online, it’s important to help people who need it the most.”

This season, Sikura has been a standout in the Rockford community and a leader in the IceHogs’ locker room. But, with an AHL contract expiring this summer, the future is not as clear of a picture for Sikura as in past years.

“This time away from the game has given me some perspective on my career and my life as a hockey player,” Sikura said. “I know the 2020–21 season will happen at some point, so knowing that I will get to play hockey for a living again is something I am grateful for. I don’t know where that will be at this time, (but) that is something I’ve been dealing with year-to-year being on one-year contracts. But, you just have to tune those things out and control what you can control.”

Sikura has been a key player in the IceHogs’ successes over the last three seasons, and was rewarded heading into the 2018–19 season with an NHL contract.

Sikura has yet to make his NHL debut in his career and says his goal is still to make the NHL with whichever team can give him that opportunity.

“Rockford has been great to me over these last three years,” Sikura said. “It’s a first-class organization and you get treated like you are an NHL team. I’m still looking to make the NHL and I want to play where I have the opportunity to do that. I would love for it to be with Chicago, but that is a decision I’ll have to make when it is time. Right now, I’m just hanging tight and focusing on what I can control.”

The Rockford IceHogs celebrate a win over the Milwaukee Admirals on Dec. 10, 2019. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Even with his future up in the air, Sikura is staying vocal with teammates and staying in contact while they have been away during the season stoppage.

Sikura talked about players staying in touch through social media and through team group chats over text messaging, saying that team massage therapist Mike Harling continues to send the team riddles over the group chats, much like he does during the season on his whiteboard in his therapy room.

“It’s hard when everyone is spread out,” Sikura said. “You don’t feel like you got the chance to maybe say goodbye to guys who you might not get a chance to play with again.”

The AHL faces an unclear future ahead. The COVID-19 virus continues to halt all major professional sports for the time being, with leagues like the MLB, NBA and NHL trying to piece together options and plans to start or finish their seasons in some capacity.

For the AHL, dropping the hammer on the remaining 2019–20 season and 2020 Calder Cup Playoffs was a tough, but necessary, decision, given the logistics of the league. The possibility of returning in October is still on the table for the AHL, but seems unlikely that fans will be allowed to attend sporting events by that time.

“If that’s what we have to do, it’s what we have to do to get back,” King said of playing in an empty BMO Harris Bank Center if play resumes without fans. “Hopefully it’s not long before fans could make their way back into the arenas, but it will be weird, very weird.”

The Rockford IceHogs stand for the National Anthem before a game against the Chicago Wolves. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

In a league where ticket sales and fans in the building means so much to each organization’s bottom line, it seems unlikely the AHL will be able to come back to action, at full capacity, until fans are able to attend games again. The league is working toward options to begin as early as October, but is also preparing for a start to the 2020–21 season as late as December according to league President and CEO Dave Andrews, who is retiring this summer.

However and whenever the AHL, and sports in general, are able to come back, there needs to be a semblance of safety for the health of the players, coaches, team officials and event staff alike before anyone can envision returning to “normal.” While that return seems to be getting closer, it is still anyone’s guess.

Until then, stay home, stay safe, stay well.

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In a statement released Monday morning, the league announced its decision to end the season and not move on with the 2020 Calder Cup Playoffs. Following a Board of Governors meeting held on Friday, the league gave teams time over the weekend to handle business with team sponsors and staff prior to the official announcement being made.

From the AHL:

After a lengthy review process, the American Hockey League has determined that the resumption and completion of the 2019-20 season is not feasible in light of current conditions.

The League’s operational focus has turned toward actively preparing for the 2020-21 season.

We are very grateful to the National Hockey League and its teams for their support and leadership in navigating through the challenges faced over the past two months.

The AHL continues to place paramount importance on the health and safety of our players, officials, staff and fans and all of their families, and we all look forward to returning to our arenas in 2020-21.

The cancellation of the remainder of the season and the 2020 Calder Cup Playoffs marks the first time in the league’s history that a Calder Cup winner will not be decided and the Calder Cup will not be handed out. Every season since the 1937 postseason. the Calder Cup has been handed to the league champion, an 83-season run that today comes to an end.

Additionally, the AHL standings will be sorted by points percentage and statistics as of March 12, 2020, are considered final and official, and will serve as the basis for determining league awards for the 2019-20 season.

The Rockford IceHogs celebrate a win over the Milwaukee Admirals on December 10, 2019. (Photo Courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

For the Rockford IceHogs, a team on the cusp of a postseason berth, the cancellation of the season is a bitter end to 2019-20. With a 29-30-4 record through 63 games, the IceHogs sat in a tie for fourth place with the Chicago Wolves with 62 points. The Wolves having the advantage based on points percentage means Rockford finishes its season in fifth place in the AHL Central Division.

Tyler Sikura ends the year as the team’s leading scorer (34 points). Brandon Hagel led all rookies in scoring (31 points). Lucas Carlsson led all defensemen in scoring (26 points) for the second-straight season. Collin Delia was the team-leading goaltender in games (32), wins (16), save percentage (.912), and goals against average (2.66).

With the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic and the future of the 2019-20 NHL season still being figured out, the AHL could not hold out any longer to make their announcement to end the season. Every day that passed was more money lost for the league and the teams, which already is not a league built to generate the type of revenue seen by the major North American professional leagues.

League President and CEO Dave Andrews spoke on SIRIUSXM Radio two weeks ago and gave a soft-layout for what the future could hold for the AHL, citing that the league does not generate a lot of money from TV contract, but instead is a gate-driven league. Teams make the majority of their money off ticket sales and with the future of sports, at least in the next year or two, looking like they will have to operate behind closed doors with no fans, the league wouldn’t be able operate successfully.

Following the cancellation of the 2019-20 season and 2020 Calder Cup Playoffs, Andrews wrote a letter addressing the league’s decision:

Letter from AHL President and CEO Dave Andrews folling the cancellation of the 2019-20 AHL Season and 2020 postseason.

Beyond the 2019-20 season and 2020 Calder Cup playoffs is still a mystery. Andrews said that the league is trying to plan for every scenario, “Let’s all hope there is some opportunity to do that [return] in October, but we also have to look at operating models beginning in November, December, and January.” Andrews continued with optimism, “I’m pretty confident that we are going to play with some critical mass of teams and with everybody as we head toward December. But again, we’ll be ready to play in October, if we can.”

Stay Home. Stay Safe. Stay well, and we will see you next AHL season.

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Sikura announced the fund on his Twitter account on Tuesday evening.

(2/2) with childcare, groceries, etc. I have collected $1000 in donations from the players and we are asking you, the best fans in the AHL, to match it to support the frontline workers who are putting themselves and their families at risk to save lives https://t.co/NADogRHdU6

— Tyler Sikura (@Sikkypedia) May 5, 2020

The fund, named “IceHogs Players’ Fund for Health Care Workers,” has a goal of $2,000 and was given a head start by the IceHogs players pooling together the first $1,000. Their hope is to have fans match their donation, and then some. As of writing this, the fund is less than $300 shy of reaching the $2,000 goal in less than 24 hours.

If you would like to donate to the fund, you can do so through the GoFundMe page here.

Stay Safe. Stay Home. Stay Well.

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Finishing this season is looking bleak for the American Hockey League as spring rolls around. The above quote came from AHL President and CEO Dave Andrews in an interview on SiriusXM Radio with Gord Stellick and Scott Laughlin on Friday. Andrews called the possibility of the Calder Cup Playoffs happening this summer, alongside a possible NHL resumption of play, “very, very unlikely.”

The NHL is still holding out hope that the 2019–20 season can be salvaged sometime this summer, or, at the very least, the league could hold the Stanley Cup Playoffs or an altered version of the playoffs. But, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues with stay-at-home orders and social distancing in place, the ability to safely return to real hockey games before the fall seems unlikely for all North American leagues.

With the AHL 2019–20 season all but canceled, the Rockford IceHogs would fall short of finishing the year in what would have been a Calder Cup Playoff spot in the Central Division. But, the season was not a waste. First-year head coach Derek King led a young roster in Rockford through an up-and-down year and had the IceHogs fighting down the stretch of the season. Riding the successes from a trio of goaltenders, the Sikura brothers and a number of emerging rookies to name a few, the IceHogs took a step forward from the underwhelming finish of the 2018–19 season.

With that in mind and the 2019–20 season all but put to bed, let’s take a look at the postseason IceHogs team awards as voted on by me, myself and I.

Preseason predictions

Heading into the 2019–20 season, the Rockford IceHogs’ lineup was a promising mixture of veterans and high-end prospects turned professional rookies. Add in Kirby Dach for three games and the beginning of the year was an exciting time. And, it feels like a lifetime ago that these were the Rockford lines and pairings:

#IceHogs lines vs #Griffins tonight:
Versteeg (C)-Nilsson (A)-Wedin
Highmore-TSikura-DSikura
Saarela-Entwistle-Quenneville
Moutrey-Dach-Hagel

Gilbert (A)-Boqvist
Beaudin-Tuulola
Carlsson-Holm

Delia
Tomkins#RFDvsGR #AHL

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) October 12, 2019

Obviously in the AHL, things change nearly every day with recalls, assignments and injuries. But, heading into the season back in October, here’s how I thought the season would play out by this time of year, and who would be the postseason award winners.

• Most Valuable Player: Matthew Highmore (Dark-horse picks: Collin Delia, Kris Versteeg)
• Rookie of the Year: Adam Boqvist (Dark-horse picks: Brandon Hagel, Philipp Kurashev)
• Defenseman of the Year: Adam Boqvist (Dark-horse picks: Chad Krys, Dennis Gilbert)
• Unsung Hero: Jacob Nilsson (Dark-horse picks: MacKenzie Entwistle, Tyler Sikura)
• Heavy Hitter Award: Dennis Gilbert (Dark-horse picks: Reese Johnson, Joni Tuulola)
• Most Improved Player: Kevin Lankinen (Dark-horse picks: Alexandre Fortin, Nick Moutrey)

I was right on zero of these predictions.

My “dark-horse” picks gave me a bit of saving grace. But, with Adam Boqvist emerging as an NHL-ready defenseman in his rookie season, Kris Versteeg leaving the team and eventually retiring and a three-quarters-of-a-season recall for Matthew Highmore, my “locks,” if you will, were way off.

2019–20 Rockford IceHogs postseason awards

So, how did things actually fare and who were the true standouts from the 2019–20 AHL season for the IceHogs?

Most Improved Player: Tyler Sikura

Tyler Sikura carries the puck up the ice. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

After breaking out for the IceHogs in the 2017–18 season, his first full season in the AHL, Tyler Sikura had high expectations last year to be a major contributor for Rockford and, albeit a long shot, could have pushed for a shot at the NHL with the Chicago Blackhawks. Those things did not happen last season for the elder Sikura brother. Coming into this season, Tyler needed to return to the form he saw in 2017–18, where he was one of the top point producers on the team.

He enjoyed a bounce-back season in 2019–20, leading the team in points (34) and ranking second in goals (14), tied with his brother, Dylan Sikura. After Versteeg left the team in November, Tyler was named the IceHogs’ new team captain and played a major role as part of Rockford’s penalty kill this season. Sikura’s AHL contract with the organization ends this summer.

Heavy Hitter: Joseph Cramarossa

Joseph Cramarossa winds up the crowd after a fight. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs.)

Acquired in late November, Joseph Cramarossa came into the IceHogs’ lineup and was a mainstay when healthy. An energy forward and not afraid to mix it up physically, Cramarossa led Rockford with 110 penalty minutes this season with a team-high six fighting majors. The IceHogs as a team registered 24 team fighting majors in 2019–20, the most fighting majors since the 2015–16 season when they registered 39 fights. Cramarossa had 12 points in 42 games with the IceHogs this season and is an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Unsung Hero: Gabriel Gagne

Gabriel Gagne (center, 32) celebrates a goal for the Rockford IceHogs against the Texas Stars. (Photograph courtesy of the Texas Stars)

Another in-season acquisition for the IceHogs that made an impact was Gabriel Gagne. Acquired on loan from the Allen Americans in the ECHL in January, Gagne quickly showed the scoring ability along with physical presence that made him a second-round pick for the Ottawa Sentors back at the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. In 21 games with Rockford, Gagne tallied 12 points and was given top-six minutes and power play opportunities down the back half of the schedule. Prior to the season being put on hold, Gagne signed a one-year AHL contract with the IceHogs for the 2020–21 season.

Defenseman of the Year: Lucas Carlsson

Lucas Carlsson looks to make a pass. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

For the second straight season, Lucas Carlsson led the Rockford IceHogs in scoring for defensemen. The second-year player from Sweden finished the season with 26 points in 48 games for Rockford, good for a tie for fourth on the team in scoring with MacKenzie Entwistle. Carlsson’s 26 points was 11 more than the next-highest defenseman this season, ahead of rookie Nicolas Beaudin.

When healthy this season, Carlsson was a regular for head coach Derek King in his defensive rotation and was regularly used on the power play. Carlsson’s confidence this season was evident, as he began to take more chances offensively and earned himself his first NHL call up to the Chicago Blackhawks. The former fourth-round pick played in six games for Chicago and recorded one assist, averaging just over 14 minutes of ice time.

Rookie of the Year: Brandon Hagel

Brandon Hagel eyes the play during a shift against the San Antonio Rampage. (Photograph courtesy of the San Antonio Rampage)

On a team that at one point this season boasted top-end rookie prospects Adam Boqvist, MacKenzie Entwistle, Nicolas Beaudin and Philipp Kurashev, none were more impactful for the IceHogs than Brandon Hagel. The former sixth-round pick by the Buffalo Sabres signed an entry-level contract with the Chicago Blackhawks at the end of the 2018–19 season, skating in the final eight games of the AHL season with the IceHogs and notching one assist.

In the 2019–20 season, his first full professional season, Hagel led the IceHogs in goals with 19, finished third on the team with 31 points in 59 games played and his 126 shots on goal were second on the team behind Dylan Sikura. In the Blackhawks’ development camp, Hagel showed a high motor and ability to get to the net to create scoring chances and those skills translated to the ice at the AHL level. Hagel earned three recalls to the Chicago Blackhawks this season, but was only able to get into one game at the NHL level before the season was paused.

Most Valuable Player: Collin Delia

Collin Delia makes a save for the Rockford IceHogs against the Chicago Wolves. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

About a month into the season, calling Collin Delia an IceHogs Team MVP candidate was a bit of a long shot. Delia started the season off on the wrong foot, dropping five of his first seven starts of the season and posting a sub-.900 save percentage. After sitting behind Kevin Lankinen and Matt Tomkins for a three-week stretch from mid-November to the beginning of December, Delia turned both his and the IceHogs’ season around.

Going 14–8–1 from Dec. 3 to the end of the season, Delia was the backbone of Rockford’s push in the second half of the season to get into the Calder Cup Playoff picture. He finished the year with a 16–13–1 record on the year with a career-high three shutouts. The IceHogs rolled a healthy three-goalie rotation this season for most of the year, up until Lankinen’s season was ended due to a shoulder injury, and Delia was the season leader in net with the highest marks in save percentage (.912) and goals against average (2.66). The California native ranked in the top 10 of the AHL for qualified goaltenders in shutouts (three), wins (16) and shootout save percentage (.875, 14/16).

2019–20 epilogue

It truly is a shame that the Rockford IceHogs’ season was cut short during the Calder Cup Playoff push. With 62 points in 63 games, the IceHogs were tied for fourth in the Central Division with the Chicago Wolves, only they would be on the outside of the postseason due to points percentage. But, with nine games remaining, who is to say that the IceHogs could not have had one hot streak left in them to make it into the playoffs?

There are plenty of questions, both on and off the ice, facing the IceHogs and the American Hockey League heading into the 2020–21 season. But, when we do eventually get back to regular games, whenever that may be, there is certainty that the IceHogs can be contenders. Given the talent that will return next season, Rockford is set up to be a team to keep on the radar.

I will leave you with a final quote from Andrews’ interview on Sirius XM radio: “Despite the uncertainty, we’ll be okay.”

Stay safe. Stay home. Stay well.

The post Rockford IceHogs postseason awards (if this is the end) appeared first on The Rink.

On Tuesday, Versteeg announced his retirement and released a personal statement along with it:

Statement from Kris Versteeg:

“What a run it was. A kid from North Lethbridge who played on the streets every day, dreaming of playing in the NHL. I took a lot for granted in my time in the NHL. But the one thing I never took for granted were the relationships I made with my teammates and staff of the hockey clubs I played for. A bunch of people have made huge impacts on my life. There was one guy who took a kid with a different personality and a massive chip on his shoulder and helped give him hope, and that was Scott Gordon. Dale Tallon also took a chance on me and gave me multiple opportunities throughout my career. I know I wasn’t always the easiest to deal with. Without people like Scott and Dale, the road to today would not be what it was.

Thanks to my agent Dave Kaye, and my finance advisor Chris Moynes for the last 15 years.  Thank you to every organization I was able to play for. I didn’t realize it then, but I certainly appreciate now how amazing it was to play in the NHL. I want to thank the Chicago Blackhawks’ entire organization, from top to bottom, especially including the fans. The 2010 Championship was the highlight of my career. I also want to thank Brad Treliving for letting me come home to finish my NHL career. As a person and a GM, he made a huge impact on me.

My grandparents Morris and Joanne helped pay for skates and equipment, while feeding us when we couldn’t afford it. They are my real heroes for keeping me and my brothers in the rinks and off the streets. I’m both nervous and excited for what comes next. I have a wife who has supported me endlessly, two boys and a daughter who all have their journeys ahead of them, and I’m excited to see where those might lead. Lastly, a special thanks to my Mom and Dad. I could thank you guys for a thousand things, but it all leads back to saying thank you for the hockey stick. It may be going on the rack, but the endless amount of amazing memories it gave our entire family will be etched in our minds forever.”

Kris Versteeg passes the puck in the first period of game five of the 2015 Stanley Cup Final at Amalie Arena in Tampa Bay, Florida. (Photograph courtesy of Kim Klement / USA TODAY Sports)

Versteeg made his professional debut with the Providence Bruins in 2006 in the AHL before being traded to the Blackhawks’ organization. He played for the Norfolk Admirals and Rockford IceHogs from 2006–08, making his NHL debut with the Blackhawks in November of 2007. He played his first full season in the NHL during the 2008–09 season, where he tallied 53 points in 78 games and was a Calder Trophy finalist, finishing third behind Bobby Ryan and award winner Steve Mason.

The Alberta native was a key piece during the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs for the Blackhawks, scoring six goals and 14 points in 22 games, as the 49-year Stanley Cup drought was put to an end in Chicago and a modern-era dynasty was born. Unfortunately for Versteeg and many other key players from the 2010 Stanley Cup team, the Blackhawks could not keep him around and he was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs that summer.

Kris Versteeg awaits a face off against the San Jose Sharks during the 2017–18 season, Versteeg’s last in the NHL. (Photograph courtesy of Sergei Belski / USA TODAY Sports)

From the 2010–11 season to early in the 2013–14 season, Versteeg bounced from the Maple Leafs to the Philadelphia Flyers and then to the Florida Panthers before making his way back to Chicago in November of 2013. During that span, Versteeg was limited to 10 games in the shortened 2013 season due to rib and groin injuries, followed by season-ending knee surgery while with the Panthers.

He stayed with the Blackhawks through the rest of the 2013–14 season, totaling 36 points in 81 games played between Chicago and Florida. Versteeg played in 61 games with the Blackhawks during the 2014–15 season the next year and skated in 12 games in the postseason as the Blackhawks would go on to win their sixth Stanley Cup in franchise history and third over a six-year span, marking the second Stanley Cup of his career.

Following that season, Versteeg was again traded away from Chicago and landed with the Carolina Hurricanes. From the 2015–16 season to the 2017–18 season, Versteeg played for the Hurricanes, Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames before leaving the NHL after the 2017–18 season. Injuries began to take a toll on his body, including a hip injury that caused him to miss half of the 2017–18 season in Calgary. He was near retirement at that point, but returned to professional hockey during the 2018–19 season, playing parts in the SHL with Växjö Lakers and with Avangard Omsk in the KHL.

Kris Versteeg skates during pregame warmup prior to a Rockford IceHogs game. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Versteeg returned to North America at the beginning of the 2019–20 season, joining the Blackhawks’ organization for the third time in his career after signing an AHL contract with the IceHogs. Prior to the season beginning, Versteeg was named the captain of the IceHogs in his second go-around with Rockford. But the honeymoon was short lived in Versteeg’s re-return to the organization as he re-aggravated his prior hip injury after just six games with the IceHogs, ultimately ending his time with the organization in November of 2019, citing his struggles to fully commit to the level of play that was expected of him.

Looking to not end his career on a sour note, Versteeg made one last attempt to get on the ice and taste success, as he was able to play for Team Canada at the Spengler Cup in Switzerland this past December. Playing alongside his younger brother, Mitch Versteeg, as well as Blackhawks prospects Ian Mitchell and Matt Tomkins, Kris was able to help Canada win its 16th Spengler Cup, tallying five points in four games, including a goal and assist in the Spengler Cup Final.

Kris Versteeg celebrates a goal in the Spengler Cup Final in Switzerland. (Photograph courtesy of KEYSTONE-SDA / Gian Ehrenzeller / Melanie Duchene)

Versteeg’s career will be remembered in two ways: one, as a two-time Stanley Cup winner with the Blackhawks, and the other as a promising player cut down by injuries. Now officially retired, Versteeg has mentioned his desire to move into broadcasting. He was part of the NHL Trade Deadline coverage this past February with Sportsnet in Canada.

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After nixing an NHL deal with Chicago that would have put Mitchell into the fold with the Blackhawks this season, the 2017 second-round pick returned to Denver University for his junior season, where he served as the Pioneers’ captain. After a spell of “will he or won’t he” from the Blackhawks’ fan community, everyone can breathe a little easier knowing that the coveted defenseman will be playing his professional hockey with the Blackhawks.

Ian Mitchell headlined the Chicago Blackhawks’ NCAA prospects this season. (Photograph courtesy of the Chicago Sun-Times)

An already accomplished NCAA prospect, Mitchell played with Team Canada this past December at the Spengler Cup in Switzerland. He tallied a goal and an assist in four games played, helping Canada win their 16th Spengler Cup.

In three seasons playing at Denver, Mitchell skated in 116 games and tallied 89 points. He was part of the 2018 NCAA Championship team as a freshman and was named to the NCHC All-Rookie Team in the 2017–18 season. Mitchell was named a NCHC Second Team All-Star as a sophomore in 2018–19 and a NCHC First Team All-Star this season as a junior. Mitchell was also named the Pioneers’ Team MVP this season with 32 points in 36 games played prior to the NCAA season being canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At 5-foot-11 and tipping the scales around 180 pounds, Mitchell is not the most physically imposing defenseman, but he played heavy minutes over the last two seasons at Denver and all indications are that he will be able to play at the speed and physical level seen in the NHL. It is important to note that Mitchell will need time to adjust and more than likely is not the singular missing piece to the Blackhawks’ woes defensively. But, signs do point to Mitchell getting a crack at the NHL right away once he joins the organization, which is hopefully sooner rather than later.

The post Blackhawks, Ian Mitchell agree to terms on entry-level contract appeared first on The Rink.

From the Rockford IceHogs:

Over the course of the 2019-20 campaign, the Rancho Cucamonga, California, native helped raise over $3,700 for The Autism Program of Easterseals and the Fatherhood Encouragement Project while also donating his time and influence to see these community initiatives succeed in their mission.

With a passion for LEGO since he was a child and close connection with the Autism Program of Easterseals in Rockford, Delia took personal interest in this season’s Autism Awareness Night and LEGO Night on Jan. 25, donating over $550 worth of LEGO playsets to the program and enjoyed an afternoon building with the children in the program. He also completed a two-hour build of a two-foot tall, 1,767-piece LEGO Empire State Building set and contributed the sculpture and an autograph stick to the night’s auction, generating $600 for the Easterseals program.

During the Holiday season, Delia and his teammates joined the Fatherhood Encouragement Project for a Holiday shopping spree for underprivileged children and families in the Stateline community. Alongside the IceHogs Charitable Foundation, Delia and the team combined to donate over $2,600 to the program.

You can watch Delia’s work with the Autism Program of Easterseals here, along with he and his teammates’ work with the Fatherhood Encouragement Project here.

Delia made the most appearances in net for the IceHogs this season with 32. He amassed a record of 16–13–1, with a 2.66 goals against average and a .912 save percentage. Delia notched career-best marks in minutes played (1,824), save percentage (.912) and shutouts (three) in the 2019–20 season.

The post Collin Delia named Rockford IceHogs 2019–20 IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year appeared first on The Rink.

Both Highmore and Lankinen signed two-year contract extensions, with year one (2020–21) being two-way deals and year two (2021–22) transitioning into one-way deals. Highmore’s deal comes with a $725,000 AAV ($700,000 NHL/$450,000 AHL in year one, $750,000 in year two), while Lankinen’s deal holds an $800,000 AAV ($750,000 NHL/$500,000 AHL in year one, $850,000 in year two).

Kevin Lankinen moves across the crease to stop a shot. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

This season, Highmore played in 21 AHL games with the Rockford IceHogs, tallying 12 points, as well as playing in 36 NHL games with the Blackhawks and notching six points. He has 49 career NHL games with the Blackhawks and was named an AHL All-Star in 2017–18 with the IceHogs.

Lankinen made 21 appearances with the IceHogs this season, holding a record of 8–10–2 with a 3.03 goals against average and a .909 save percentage. He was also recalled to the Blackhawks this season, but has yet to make his NHL debut. Lankinen has played in 40 career AHL games with the IceHogs, was named an AHL All-Star this season and helped Team Finland win the 2019 World Championship gold medal last summer.

The Blackhawks signed entry-level deals with two of their 2017 NHL Entry Draft picks, giving Penn State standout Evan Barratt a three-year deal and Russian prospect Andrei Altybarmakyan a two-year deal. Barratt’s contract holds an $870,000 AAV, while Altybarmakyan’s deal is worth $817,500 annually.

Evan Barratt skates in a game for Penn State during the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of Heather Weikel)

Barratt was the 90th overall selection in 2017 by Chicago and has spent the last three years playing at Penn State. In 98 career NCAA games, Barratt scored 39 goals and totaled 95 points. He was part of Team USA’s U18 World Junior Championship gold medal team in 2017, took home a silver medal with Team USA at the 2019 World Junior Championships and was named to the First Team All-Big 10 list as a sophomore in the 2018–19 season.

Altybarmakyan was selected 70th overall by the Blackhawks in 2017 and has played in Russia his whole career. He has spent the majority of the last two seasons with HK Sochi in the KHL. He tallied six goals and 17 points this year with HK Sochi and has 23 points in 101 career KHL games.

Both Barratt’s and Altybarmakyan’s deals begin next season.

The post Blackhawks agree to extensions with Highmore and Lankinen, sign Barratt and Altybarmakyan appeared first on The Rink.

There is no hockey. There are no sports. The news is no fun. We are stuck inside. We need good news and good stories during this Coronavirus pandemic.

The Chicago Blackhawks provided a bit of that good news on Thursday morning, when it was announced that Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews was donating $100,000 to the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund through his foundation.

Some positive news to start your day: Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews donated $100,000 (through his foundation) to the Chicago Community Covid-19 Response Fund.

That money will go to local nonprofits serving the most vulnerable residents in Chicago.

— Emily Kaplan (@emilymkaplan) March 26, 2020

Toews is a noted community activist and leader, advocating for healthy lifestyles and practices through his foundation and partnerships. He also made a national appearance on the Today Show, wishing a young Blackhawks fan a happy birthday after missing out on seeing the team play on his birthday.

There are so many health care professionals we love, and we have some #WithYouTODAY messages to share, including one from Sharon. She sent us a shoutout for her sister, who’s a nurse in Illinois. pic.twitter.com/aUeCaojoPK

— TODAY (@TODAYshow) March 26, 2020

Or as Hoda Kotb said, “Jonathan Tayvits.” (It is a hard name, after all.)

Toews’ donation comes on the heels of the Blackhawks’ home arena, the United Center, announcing on Wednesday that the facilities will be used as a logistics hub during the Coronavirus pandemic.

Our arena and outside campus will be transformed into a logistics hub where we will be assisting front line food distribution, first responder staging and the collection of critically needed medical supplies.

For updated info, please visit: https://t.co/zqaVAtWV17 pic.twitter.com/i88Yx34St5

— United Center (@UnitedCenter) March 25, 2020

The NHL season is still in limbo, and the Blackhawks may or may not return to the ice to complete the 2019–20 campaign, but at least in these trying times, players and organizations are coming through for their communities.

Stay home, stay smart, stay well.

The post Jonathan Toews donates to Chicago COVID-19 Response Fund appeared first on The Rink.

For the Rockford IceHogs, the suspension of play puts their season on hold right in the thick of a Calder Cup Playoffs push. Through 63 games, the IceHogs are tied for fourth place in the AHL Central Division with the Chicago Wolves at 62 points. Thirteen games remain on the schedule, but with the further announcement from the AHL on March 16 that the suspension of play would not be lifted until at least May 1, there is a wide range of information, planning and just plain old waiting that will need to unfold before any teams get back on the ice.

So how is the team handling the stoppage of play? Without workouts, access to team facilities and with players being given the green light to return to their homes outside of Rockford, there is a lot of down time facing the players and coaches. They are all in the same boat as most of the world right now, stuck at home.

“It’s way easier to keep your body physically ready than your mind,” said IceHogs defenseman Joni Tuulola. “I don’t really know what is going to happen in the next couple of weeks, so it’s just a pain in the a** to have to wait.”

Tuulola, like many of his AHL counterparts, is heading home to Finland until the future of the 2019–20 season is more clear.

“Of course I was very sad about the suspension, but I feel that was the right thing to do,” Tuulola said. “I like to say I hope the season will continue. We will see what’s going to happen, but I think the right people are making the decision on how we are going to end the season.”

The Rockford IceHogs celebrate a goal against the San Antonio Rampage. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

The MLB, MLS, NBA and NHL are all on pins and needles at this point in time, their seasons either put on hold or facing major alterations to their schedules. The NFL offseason is being affected, too, with changes being made to the NFL draft and potentially changing the timing of preseason workouts. The NCAA canceled all winter and spring postseason tournaments, including the men’s and women’s Frozen Four and the men’s and women’s “March Madness” tournaments. In North America and across the world, essentially all sports have been put on hold until further notice.

For the IceHogs, this means getting creative to keep their fans engaged when they are craving hockey content. First, it started with players and coaches checking in and making sure the fans and their families are doing well in this crazy time.

"Wanted to reach out and let you guys know that we are thinking about ya. Thank you for supporting us all year and making the BMO an awesome place to play." – IceHogs forward Dylan Sikura pic.twitter.com/p30VoXD8sX

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) March 18, 2020

Team points leaders Dylan Sikura (33) and Tyler Sikura (34) both chimed in on the IceHogs’ social media pages to thank fans for their support and to remind everyone to listen to the guidelines that the global medical community has put forth to help curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Our captain. #leadership

"This is bigger than hockey. I encourage you to stay inside, stay safe and stay healthy." pic.twitter.com/94QpfVJwlv

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) March 17, 2020

Head coach Derek King also gave his update to the Rockford fan community, as the self-quarantining, social distancing and time working from home becomes the new normal for the majority of folks.

The checks in.

"Stay safe, be good, stay out trouble and go, Hogs go!" pic.twitter.com/sQXvoaC2H0

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) March 16, 2020

On Tuesday, the IceHogs and San Jose Barracuda played a best-of-three series on EA Sports NHL20 and live streamed the online game on Twitch. They even cut a highlights package from the virtual series.

Highlights: We come from behind in game one and cruise to a win in game two to sweep San Jose in our first-ever video game series!

Check it out: https://t.co/F1o9a6i7Nl

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) March 17, 2020

Other IceHogs have used the new-found down time in a number of ways, and one shared how not to use it.

“Definitely don’t watch ‘Contagion’ or ‘Outbreak,'” joked IceHogs goaltender Collin Delia.

Watching movies and TV shows, reading new and old books and video games are popular ways for those stuck indoors to pass the time.

For Delia, he is getting the opportunity to focus on his life away from the rink at a pivotal time for his family.

“My go-to way to pass the time is to work on some leather projects with my girlfriend, Ava,” Delia said. “Our business (Portiere Leather Company) is in the Chicago area and we’ve been busy catching up on orders and making new projects.”

Delia and his girlfriend announced on their company’s Instagram account a few months back that they were expecting their first child, and the father-to-be is getting an unexpected chance to be home at an important time.

“We’ve been enjoying spending time together,” Delia said. “Ava is seven months pregnant, so it’s been great to be able to support her and watch our baby develop in light of the season being suspended.”

Collin Delia makes a save for the Rockford IceHogs against Laval Rocket on Dec. 17, 2019. (Photograph courtesy of the Laval Rocket)

Delia expressed his hope for the 2019–20 season to be finished, but understands that very well may never come to fruition.

“I am optimistic that the season will resume,” Delia said. “However, there is a part of me that doesn’t think the season will start again because every day the situation is seemingly more dire. It seems like we won’t have any form of hockey until May 1, which is a long ways away.”

Like Tuulola said, this time in limbo will be a pain in the a**. But, we are in this together to get through this turbulent time in human history.

“Spend time with your family,” Tuulola said. “Times like these, the people around you are the most important. Keep your family close and have some good time with those who are closest to you.”

We at The Rink echo Tuulola’s message. Let those who you love and care about know you are thinking of them during this weird time in the world. Be safe, be well, be smart and be kind. We will get back to the rink and back on the ice soon enough.

The post Rockford IceHogs living in limbo during AHL season suspension appeared first on The Rink.

On Tuesday, the Blackhawks held practice as usual, but the post-practice locker room access was changed to a podium-style press conference for players and coaches with media members kept at least six feet away.

Dylan Strome making his lectern debut: "This is new. Feels like I just got traded." pic.twitter.com/u1NggjcplM

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) March 10, 2020

It will take both the team and media members some time to get used to the new, temporary measures. The limit of access to the locker room is nothing new for the media covering the Rockford IceHogs. The typical procedure for most of the AHL involves having coaches and players brought to a backdrop outside of the locker room with media scrums happening there. On Tuesday, the IceHogs canceled their sponsored “Hog Talk” event along with all other team-related community events.

UPDATE: In response to the NHL’s updated media policy and reflecting procedures established by the Chicago Blackhawks, tonight's IceHogs Bud Light Hog Talk and other team-related community events have been cancelled. https://t.co/jMOo3TvyO9

— Rockford IceHogs (@goicehogs) March 10, 2020

The hope is these measures will be temporary and will not escalate in North America the way they have in European countries like Switzerland and Italy, where hockey and soccer leagues have canceled or postponed all games and events until further developments are available.

In San Jose, the Sharks and Barracuda will adhere to a Santa Clara County ban on all mass gatherings through the end of March. The teams and leagues are working on the options for the three home games on the schedule for the Sharks (March 19, 21 and 29) and the Barracuda (March 17 and 22). Playing the games with the arena closed off to the fans, postponing the games or playing them at a neutral site are all options on the table while the ban is in action.

For now, the Blackhawks and IceHogs will hold games at the United Center and BMO Harris Bank Center as normal, with only locker room access changes being made.

The post Blackhawks and IceHogs taking precautions over Coronavirus concerns appeared first on The Rink.

Tuesday, February 4th, Fuel 3 vs Cincinnati 2

In a rare weekday matchup- the Fuel took on the Cincinnati Cyclones. In typical Fuel fashion, the team jumped out to a first-period lead. Three minutes into the first period, Keoni Texeira dangled in the Cincinnati zone and then found Alex Rauter for the impressive finish.

POWER PLAY GOAL

Alex Rauter gives us the first goal of the game and puts us up 1-0! pic.twitter.com/kDhuwyCtM5

— Indy Fuel (@IndyFuel) February 5, 2020

Rauter was not done on the score sheet. He sent Mathieu Foget streaking on a stretch pass. Foget delivered the goods and a two-goal lead. After the Cyclones cut the lead in half to end the first period. In the second period, the Fuel’s Josh McArdle found Foget on three-on-one breakaway, and he cashed in his second goal of the game to give the Fuel a 3-1 lead. The Fuel never relinquished the lead and won 3-2 over Cyclones. 

Friday, February 7th: Fuel 6, Tulsa 2

On Hockey Fights Cancer Night, the Indy fuel ravaged the Tulsa Oilers. Despite the final score being very lopsided, the first period was a whitewash for both teams. In the second period, the Fuel broke open the scoring drought. Keoni Texeira turned on the hyperdrive and scored the game’s first goal. 

TEX BE ZOOMIN pic.twitter.com/ccJgmPS4rU

— Indy Fuel (@IndyFuel) February 8, 2020

The lead provided by Texeira was short-lived as Tulsa’s Jared Thomas scoring the tying goal on netminder Dan Bakala. The Fuel regained the lead on a goal from Joe Sullivan, who received a beaut of a pass from McArdle for the goal. Less than a minute later, Spencer Watson feathered a back door pass to Bobby MacIntyre for the third goal of the game. The flood gates of empty-net goals came after the Tulsa scored a goal of their own. MacIntyre, Nathan Noel, and Ryan Van Stralen added empty goals to seal the victory. 

Saturday, February 8th: Fuel 4, Kalamazoo 2

Saturday’s game was the second game in three days for the Fuel. Indy didn’t have a middle game in let down. Early in the first period, Fuel’s Van Stralen capitalized on a cross-ice pass from Alex Krushelnyski to score the first goal of the game. The Van Stralen goal was scored against former Fuel goalie Jake Hildebrand. The Wings responded quickly, Justin Kovacs snapped wrister in for the equalizer. 

The Fuel regained the lead on a Michael Doherty goal. The goal was generated by the forechecking of Van Stralen. In the third period, MacIntyre delivered the death blow to the Wings. He channeled his inner Tom Berenger from the movie Sniper. 

Don't leave @bmacintyre13 alone pic.twitter.com/gIaVynmtka

— Indy Fuel (@IndyFuel) February 9, 2020

The Wings did not go quietly into the night and scored a late goal. However, the goal from the Wings proved to futile as Doherty’s empty-net goal clinched the victory. 

Sunday, February 9th: Fuel 5, Fort Wayne 2

Perfect weeks are hard to achieve but not impossible. Finishing out their third game in three days and their fourth game of the week, the Fuel started off like a fatigued team. Indy found themselves down two to one after the first period. In the second period, the Fuel would get back into this game with a tying goal from Sullivan. Finishing tied after two periods, the Fuel finally found their legs in the third period. Nathan Noel brought the funk and third goal of the game for the Fuel. Shortly after the Noel goal, Jake Ryczek gave the fans on Sunday funday another reason to celebrate.

JAKE RYCZEK GOALLLLLLLL

*KISSES FINGERS*

And now we are up 4-2! pic.twitter.com/dTgbcQunGF

— Indy Fuel (@IndyFuel) February 9, 2020

Van Stralen chipped in a power-play goal from the point to cement the victory and perfect week.

Fuel Dump:

• Ryan Van Stralen has a goal in his last three games.
• Jake Schultz has been released for the roster.
• Josh McArdle was recalled by the Rockford Icehogs.
• Mathieu Foget is on a four-game point streak.
• The Fuel have now won five games in a row going back to last week.

The Fuel will return to action on Friday, February 14th against the Fort Wayne Comets.

The post Fuel Tank: The Indy Fuel Are Streaking! appeared first on The Rink.

This morning, head coach Jeremy Colliton announced that Dylan Strome would be a healthy scratch. Robin Lehner got the start in net.

The Oilers got an early lead in the game. Zack Kassian‘s original shot was blocked by Alex DeBrincat, went off the pad of Lehner, and bounced right to Riley Sheahan for an easy tap-in goal.

Sheahan gets us on the board in a hurry. #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/uMBtRPTWpl

— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 12, 2020

About four minutes later, Patrick Kane streaked into the zone and patiently waited for Brandon Saad to follow him in. Saad beat Kassian to the net, and Kane sent a cross-crease pass right to the stick of the winger to tie the game at one goal apiece.

WHAT. A. PLAY!

Kaner is now tied for 𝟖𝟖𝐭𝐡 on the career points list with 1,006 AND the Blackhawks ties this one up: https://t.co/Zb0aASqEuf pic.twitter.com/o2cztktcSf

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 12, 2020

After taking a penalty just over five minutes into the first period, the penalty kill went to work. Olli Maatta battled for the puck along the boards in the Oilers’ offensive zone and sent it to Jonathan Toews. He passed to Ryan Carpenter on the blue line, who then slipped it across the ice to the captain for a shorthanded goal and a 2-1 lead.

Who needs 5 guys anyway? pic.twitter.com/e9yrg9qwyT

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) February 12, 2020

Then, after a questionable penalty call on Jonathan Toews for “tripping,” the Kailer Yamamoto tied it back up on Edmonton’s power play when Chicago failed to clear the zone.

Early into the second period, the Blackhawks found themselves on a rush down the ice. Kane beat Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and slipped a pass to a yawning Adam Boqvist, who directed it right by Mike Smith to give the Blackhawks a 3-2 lead.

When Kaner tells Boqer "Nice shot!"

Watch live: https://t.co/mfQ1ZBC5v2 pic.twitter.com/DFeRyKheNr

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 12, 2020

Not even two minutes later, the Oilers tied it up yet again. The original shot by Nugent-Hopkins hit Lehner’s pad, but Yamamoto found the loose puck right and deposited it into the net for his second of the game. That’s a puck your goalie just has to stop, but no defensive coverage in front of him didn’t help either.

Kailer Yamamoto, big equalizer guy. That's two on the night. @kailer_yamamoto | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/vR4dckaENc

— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 12, 2020

The Oilers then went to the power play on another questionable call, and they capitalized. Smith sent a pass all the way down to Nugent-Hopkins. Leon Draisaitl then threw it on net before Nugent-Hopkins converted on the man advantage to give Edmonton a 4-3 lead.

8 goals, 13 assists & 21 points in his last 15. The Nuge has moved from heating up to full on-fire status. @RNH_93 | #LetsGoOilers pic.twitter.com/NXuMUmYJNo

— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) February 12, 2020

As the game continued, the Blackhawks had a surplus of chances. The power play started off awful, but eventually got better the more time they received on the advantage. Chicago put six shots on net during their third power play of the game.

Despite dominating the third period in shot attempts (28-6), shots on goal (18-5), scoring chances (12-3), and high-danger chances (6-1), the Blackhawks couldn’t put the puck in the back of the net again to tie it up. Draisaitl scored the empty-netter and the Oilers handed Chicago their fourth-straight loss.

Along the Boards

pic.twitter.com/IECNo15xdx

— Second City Hockey (@2ndCityHockey) February 12, 2020

For the third game in a row, questionable calls were made. This “trip” that the officials called on Jonathan Toews was nothing of sorts. Instead, the Edmonton player fell right over the linesman’s skate, but the crew still deemed it a penalty. So instead of the call being overturned by the linesman, the Oilers go on the advantage and tie the game.

They made another bad call in the second period, dinging Zack Smith for slashing (rightly so) but not getting Gaetan Haas for holding the stick, which is what clearly happened before Smith slashed them. What should’ve been coincidental minors ended up being a power play for Edmonton, and they scored the game-winning goal.

Officiating gets worse and worse every night.

GOAL: Boqvist from Kane. 3-2 Blackhawks. Kane with two unreal primary assists tonight.

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) February 12, 2020

This isn’t about Kane having two ridiculous assists tonight, which he did, but more about Boqvist scoring the 3-2 goal. I loved watching him join the rush with Kane on this play. We all know he’s offensively talented, and that shows when he’s on the power play. But plays like this are where he can make a difference on the offense, because he’s not afraid to act as the fourth forward at times.

And while that sometimes can end up being a bad thing if he’s behind a rush the other way, Boqvist has been steadily improving defensively every night. He’s a joy to watch, and much like Kirby Dach, it’s awesome to see him grow. I think he’s going to turn into a much better defenseman than we anticipated if he can continue to up his defensive game.

Due to the medical emergency involving Blues defenseman Jay Bouwmeester, tonight’s game has been postponed and will be made up at a later date. #stlblues

— St. Louis Blues (@StLouisBlues) February 12, 2020

#stlblues telecast says Jay Bouwmeester was alert and responsive as he was being taken to the hospital. @Panger40 reported that a defibrillator was “close by” and #stlblues and #nhlducks trainers and doctors were on the case immediately.

— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) February 12, 2020

Blues defenseman Jay Bouwmeester collapsed on the bench during the first period of their game against the Anaheim Ducks tonight. He was transported to the hospital and is alert. The Blues and Ducks postponed the game to a later date due to the medical emergency. All of us here at The-Rink are sending thoughts to Bouwmeester, his family, and the St. Louis Blues organization. We wish him the best in his recovery.

The Blackhawks will continue their western Canadian road trip tomorrow when they take on the Vancouver Canucks. Daniel and Henrik Sedin will have their jerseys retired in a pre-game ceremony. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:30 p.m. CST. 

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks drop fourth in a row, defeated by Oilers 5-3 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.

In his final season with Red Deer, Hagel tallied 41 goals and 102 points to finish fourth in points in the WHL. Since then, the Alberta native has worked his way into the forefront of the Chicago Blackhawks’ prospect system, as he is on pace for one of the most prolific rookie scoring seasons in Rockford IceHogs AHL franchise history.

Hagel’s stock on the rise with IceHogs

This should come as no surprise to those that know Hagel’s game. After finishing with 279 points in 259 WHL games, Hagel was expected to produce points at the professional level.

“Coming in last year for eight games and getting some touches in was good for me,” Hagel said about joining the IceHogs last season. “Got to come here and get used to the people and the players, so when I came back this year, I knew more of what to expect and that allows me to play the way I need to play.”

Hagel’s comfort level with the IceHogs has translated into a high-energy style of play that has been rewarded by head coach Derek King this season, affording Hagel meaningful ice time and opportunities on both the power play and the penalty kill.

For a rookie coming into the professional ranks, the transition from junior hockey can take a physical toll on a young player. But, with his style of play, Hagel has found it easier than most to make the jump to the next level.

“There’s a lot of new things you learn through recovery and nutrition and how important that is,” Hagel said. “As a rookie, you’re kind of on your own now, living on your own, so you have to figure things out now for yourself. We have a great leadership group on this team that is really on top of those things, so that has made my transition as easy as it can be.”

Only 3 #IceHogs have scored 20+ goals in their rookie season since 07-08:
Matthew Highmore (24)
Tyler Sikura (23)
Tanner Kero (20)
Brandon Hagel has 17 goals through 45 games this season. He is on pace for 28 goals, which would be the highest total since 2012-13 (30, Morin) #AHL https://t.co/3f8FPZ6vLa

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) February 5, 2020

What may be a surprise to IceHogs and Blackhawks fans alike are both Hagel’s work ethic and skills away from the puck.

His ability to put up points, as well as apply pressure defensively, kill penalties and play with an edge has allowed him to separate himself from the pack in the Blackhawks’ prospect system. His work this season did not go unnoticed by the parent club and Hagel received his first NHL recall in January.

“I don’t feel like my work away from the puck is underrated,” Hagel said. “People notice that and it’s continued to be a part of my game as a whole. My work ethic is the No. 1 thing that I have to focus on. Obviously, people notice it and I’m putting up numbers, too, so that always helps.”

While he did not get to make his full NHL debut during his first NHL recall, Hagel still took away a vote of confidence from the Blackhawks organization after getting the opportunity to learn from the pros in Chicago.

“It was nice just to even go up there and just get comfortable around the guys and staff,” Hagel said. “Everyone was so welcoming and that made it easier for me to do what I needed when I was up there, especially when it’s your first time up and you don’t really know what to expect. It’s just good to know what I have to do to get back there and hopefully get that opportunity again.”

Brandon Hagel skates against the San Antonio Rampage during the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of the San Antonio Rampage)

On a roster that began the season so inexperienced, and has endured a heavy amount of turnover due to injuries and recalls, Hagel has been one of the most consistent offensive factors for the IceHogs.

“There’s always going to be change,” Hagel said. “We’ve been through a lot of it this year and it’s just one of those things that you have to let it roll. Can’t think about it too much and stick to your game.”

Hagel and the IceHogs went through a difficult month of January, which snowballed from an equally difficult end of December. Going 3–14–2 from Dec. 21 to Feb. 1, the IceHogs have fallen from second in the AHL Central Division to sixth. While somehow keeping within striking distance of a Calder Cup Playoff spot through that stretch, the IceHogs have won back-to-back games heading into their next contest on Saturday and regained their confidence.

Rockford will need to continue to lean on Hagel’s offensive production, which has him third on the team with 25 points and leading the way with 17 goals this season. Hagel’s 17 tallies rank in a tie for fourth among rookies scorers and he is on pace for 28 goals this season, which would set the IceHogs’ AHL franchise record for rookies.

The post Brandon Hagel on historic rookie pace for IceHogs 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.

In the first period, it was the Blackhawks who were dominated by the Minnesota Wild. The Wild came out on a mission and the Blackhawks did not meet their compete level in the first period. At one point during the first period, Chicago was being outshot 10-1. When the team did get on the offensive, Jonathan Toews delivered a knee to Alex Stalock.

Yikes. Knee right to the head. pic.twitter.com/ZC7IlJYVdn

— Hockey Wilderness (@hockeywildernes) February 5, 2020

Much to the dismay of many observers, Stalock remained in the game. On the other side of the ice, Corey Crawford was showcasing his talents for all the NHL to see. Crawford was the only bright spot for the Hawks in the first period. The Blackhawks escaped with the score knotted at zero.

The second period was more of the same for the Blackhawks. Minnesota outworked and outplayed the Hawks in the second period. The Wild’s hard work finally paid off as Kevin Fiala hit the net. Adam Boqvist committed a turnover in his own zone leading to the first goal of the game.

KEVIN

1-0. pic.twitter.com/DzSQiUKgQM

— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) February 5, 2020

Fiala decided to double his pleasure and double his fun as he blasted his second goal of the game.

Make it for Kevin Fiala.@mnwild | #CHIvsMIN pic.twitter.com/iDHTVdMAJv

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) February 5, 2020

The third period was a desperate time and that called for the nuclear options. Colliton went to the line blender multiple times trying to jump-start the offense. The moves by Jeremy Colliton paid off as the Blackhawks finally got onto the score sheet. Adam Boqvist wired a shot from the blue line to cut the lead in half.

Adam Boqvist scores his third goal of the season and #Blackhawks are finally on the board. pic.twitter.com/0PNKlPV29H

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) February 5, 2020

The effort level for the Blackhawks changed in the third period. After being dormant for two periods, the team rose their level of play and brought energy into a hostile environment.  The equalizer came from an unlikely scorer.

No angle. No problem.

We're TIED with 3 to play!

: NBCSN
: https://t.co/hswnWrynNY pic.twitter.com/ypGWX1KkNI

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) February 5, 2020

After three periods, the Blackhawks and Wild went into overtime. The overtime period was filled with offensive chances for both teams. Unfortunately, the Blackhawks were once again burned by a costly defensive turnover. Erik Gustafsson committed a criminal turnover that resulted in the Matt Dumba game-winner. It was too little too late for the Blackhawks as they fell to the Wild.

The Blackhawks will return to the United Center tomorrow night to take on the Boston Bruins. The game begins at 7 p.m. CST and will be on NBCSN.

The post Along The Boards: The Blackhawks Fail to Show up In Minnesota appeared first on The Rink.

The Hawks faced an already depleted Coyote team without defensemen Oliver Ekman-Larsson and goalie Darcy Kuemper and they took full advantage in the first period. Mid-first period, Corey Crawford deflected a shot and the puck ended up in front of Patrick Kane who pushed it to Brandon Saad up the left side for his 14th goal of the season. This allowed Kane’s point streak to reach 12 games.

The first period was all Hawks and Corey Crawford used his whole body to block 12 shots on goal and give the Coyotes a 1–0 deficit to end the first period.

There's no being Saad about this shot.

Brandon Saad (@BSaad20) definitely wouldn't be. pic.twitter.com/LlbVXUpDyv

— NHL (@NHL) February 2, 2020

The Hawks would face a different animal from the Coyotes in the second period, however.

The away team started the second period off with a little déjà vu. Kane hit Saad for his second of the game (15th this season), putting the Hawks up 2–0. This time, Kirby Dach gets credited with an assist for his eighth on the season. Kane takes advantage of yet another defensive mistake by the Coyotes as they have four guys behind the goal line with Saad in front to flip one over Antti Raanta’s shoulder for the goal. Hawks up 2–0 and look to be cruising to a road “W”.

Goal No. 2 of the night for No. 20! #CHIvsARI pic.twitter.com/RUQ7NWL4VW

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 2, 2020

As previously stated, however, the Coyotes adjusted their game accordingly.

Halfway through the second period, Crawford stops an initial shot from Carl Soderberg, but the puck ricochets in front of an open Brad Richardson for his 4th goal this season. The Coyotes cut the deficit in half.

Then, Slater Koekkoek had Connor Garland one on one up the side, but he decided to switch at the last minute to block the net instead of staying the course allowing Garland to tie the game with a top-shelf goal for his 17th on the season. Surprisingly, Garland leads Arizona in goals. The Blackhawks and Coyotes were tied 2-2 at the end of two.

Large player the size of a small player completely fills the lane. pic.twitter.com/JhuaXZAqm7

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) February 2, 2020

The third period was sloppy for the Hawks early on. Jonathan Toews got called for hooking and Olli Maatta got called for holding giving the Coyotes two big advantages. The Hawks weathered the storm though and both goalies did not break the whole third period. Hats off to both Crawford and Raanta for coming up with some spectacular saves to send it to OT.

Raanta at one point was on his stomach and had to kick his legs up to save a goal. 13 for 13 saves in the third. A heck of an adjustment for the Coyotes from the beginning of the game.

ARE YOU KIDDING ME, ANTTI?!#SCTop10 pic.twitter.com/R7XekmsCJm

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) February 2, 2020

SHOOTOUT TIME BAYBAY!

Toews started it off with a slowdown goal to put the Hawks up 1–0 in the shootout. He is 4 for 7 this season now and 49 for 100 in his career. After a save by Crow on a Nick Schmaltz shot, it was showtime at the Gila River Arena. Kane, much like Toews, hits a chef’s kiss of a slow burn goal (5 for 7 on the season, 46 for 109 in his career) to put the Hawks up 2–0 with all the pressure on second-period villain Garland.

You can put this Patrick Kane (@88PKane) shootout goal on a continuous loop. pic.twitter.com/IwmHjqoL74

— NHL (@NHL) February 2, 2020

Crawford gets his revenge with the stop and the game that should have never seen more than three periods ends with a Hawks 3–2 win. Hawks now sit two points out of a playoff spot. Crawford improved to 10–13–2 on the season and 13–4–2 against the Coyotes in his career. Chicago’s very own stand at 25–21–6 heading into the rest of February.

The Blackhawks look to continue their after-break win streak as they lineup to play Tuesday against the Minnesota Wild. Puck drop is at 7:00 p.m. CST. Happy Groundhog Day to all.

The post Along the Boards: Blackhawks avoid season sweep with 3-2 shootout win over Coyotes 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 5’11, 176-pound forward comes to the Indy Fuel after playing 16 games with the Norfolk Admirals. Horn had three goals and four assists with Admirals this season. For his career, Horn has appeared in 56 ECHL games between the Admirals and South Carolina Stingrays, earning 11 goals and 18 assists.

In addition to the trade, the Fuel announced that forward Sam Kurker has signed a Professional Tryout Contract (PTO) with the AHL’s Stockon Heat. Kurker came to the Fuel in October after splitting time with the Manchester Monarchs, Ontario Reign, and Binghamton Devils last season. The 6’2, 203-pound forward recorded four goals and nine assists in 32 games with Indy this season. Karker has appeared in 105 ECHL games, scoring 32 goals and earning 40 assists. The former second-round pick of the St. Louis Blues also has appeared in 54 AHL games between the Cleveland Monsters, Springfield Thunderbirds, Ontario Reign, and the Binghamton Devils.

The Fuel next three games are at Indiana Farmers Coliseum 16-18. Their opponents are Florida, Rapid City, and Wheeling.

The post Indy Fuel Acquire Christian Horn appeared first on The Rink.

Of course, Corey Crawford got the start at the Bell Centre against his hometown team. This stat shows you all you need to know about how good Crow is against the Habs.

Corey Crawford starts tonight. He’s 9-2-2 all time against his hometown team with a 1.54 GAA and a SV% of .954. He’s won each of his last five starts in Montreal. #Blackhawks

— Eric Lear (@EricLear312) January 15, 2020

The first period was weird, but also good for the visitors. Both goalies had misplays, but Charlie Lindgren‘s was the one that cost his team. Miscommunication behind the net on the Habs power play led to the puck finding Drake Caggiula, who passed it to a wide-open Zack Smith, and you know he’s not going to miss an open-net chance like that. As he said in the first intermission interview with Steve Konroyd, “Sometimes when you’re struggling, if the goalie’s not in the net, that helps for scoring goals.”

Zack Smith stepping up big-time with the shorty goal pic.twitter.com/kHJOn1FSov

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 16, 2020

But that wasn’t the only goal Smith would score in the opening 20 minutes. He had a great deflection off Slater Koekkoek‘s shot and tipped it right by Lindgren to give the Blackhawks a 2-0 lead heading into the first intermission.

Soooo it turns out…..Zack Smith REALLY likes points

Stream more goals here: https://t.co/WDGVJ2w68F pic.twitter.com/ApVxPdgLvy

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 16, 2020

The weirdness trend continued into the second period. After a competitive first period by the Blackhawks, the Toews line completely fell apart within the first minute of the middle frame and former Blackhawk Phillip Danault got the Habs on the board off a ridiculous pass by Ilya Kovalchuk.

Cette passe sans regarder de Kovalchuk.

That no-look pass by Kovalchuk.#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/8Ci3mVUnod

— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) January 16, 2020

Just over halfway through the period, Max Domi took a bad penalty after he and Matthew Highmore collided. The power play went to work, and Charlie Lindgren made a flurry of stops before Adam Boqvist kept the puck in at the blue line. Jonathan Toews sent a pass over to Patrick Kane, who found a Alex DeBrincat in the slot. He didn’t miss his opportunity to bury the one-timer on the man advantage.

The doing what he does best. Lighting the lamp!!! pic.twitter.com/E6WhK7Bhxr

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 16, 2020

As the game went on, the Blackhawks continued to let the Canadiens basically skate in circles around them. The start of the third period was just as bad as the beginning of the second. But as each period continued, the Habs took their foot off the gas and let the Blackhawks back into the game.

The Canadiens were then called for too many men, and the Blackhawks went to the power play. We thought they scored, but it was clear that Toews kicked the puck into the net, even if he didn’t do it intentionally.

Even though the power-play goal was erased, the Blackhawks kept pushing and Drake Caggiula forced Jordan Weal to turn the puck over. With space and time, Caggiula buried one past Lindgren to extend Chicago’s lead to 4-3.

Caggiula piling on as the 'Hawks take a commanding 4-1 lead pic.twitter.com/CEg9bKyoeg

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 16, 2020

Despite the depth scoring and Crawford stopping 31 of 32 shots, this wasn’t the best overall game from the Blackhawks. But they pulled out a win against a struggling team, and that’s really all you can ask for.

Along the Boards

Zach Smith's 11 shorthanded goals since 2015-16 are tied for the most among all skaters through that span.

More #NHLStats: https://t.co/MedCHs1PhC pic.twitter.com/HVBdtzeOpr

— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) January 16, 2020

Considering that Zack Smith isn’t an offensive-minded player, this stat is wild. He’s good defensively and that’s why he’s on the penalty kill, but it’s awesome to see that he’s able to get in on the offense shorthanded, too.

Patrick Kane: 998 points. #Blackhawks

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) January 16, 2020

Patrick Kane’s assist on Alex DeBrincat’s goal puts him two points away from 1,000 in his NHL career. It was also his 36th assist and 60th point of the season, putting him seventh and ninth in the league in each category. He’s on pace for another 100-plus point season.

Corey Crawford stopped 31 of 32 shots and his career save percentage in Montreal went DOWN.

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) January 16, 2020

How does this make sense? It doesn’t. Hockey is weird.

The Blackhawks will continue their eastern Canadian road trip this Saturday when they take on the Toronto Maple Leafs on Hockey Night in Canada. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. CST. 

The post Along the Boards: Blackhawks win three straight, defeat Canadiens 4-1 appeared first on The Rink.

First period:

The Blackhawks started off the game in incredibly rough fashion. They lost a big defensive zone faceoff which proved incredibly costly, as the Senators got a puck to the front of the net and an uncovered Connor Brown put the puck past Robin Lehner, making it 1-0 Senators. Then, a couple of minutes later, the Senators got another puck towards the net that Chris Tierney put off of Erik Gustafsson’s skate. The puck then went off of his stick and into the back of the net, changing the score to be 2-0 Senators early on in this one.

The Blackhawks got a power play on a penalty from Mark Borowiecki elbowing Kirby Dach in the face. They weren’t able to do anything with it, ultimately, although Dominik Kubalik continued his strong play by putting the puck towards the net multiple times and finding himself out in front frequently. In the last couple of minutes of the period, Slater Koekkoek got called for a high stick in front of the net which gave the Senators their second power play of the game, with which they didn’t convert. The first period ended with Ottawa having a 2-0 lead.

Second period:

To start the second period, both teams traded great chances back and forth, with the Blackhawks getting a good chance on a Drake Caggiula one-timer and the Senators getting a great opportunity on a wrister from Anthony Duclair. The Blackhawks got a good chance with just over ten minutes left in the period, with Patrick Kane getting the puck out in front to Jonathan Toews, who put the puck wide of the net. With just under eight minutes to go, Drake Caggiula put a shot off of the post. Then Gustafsson blasted one wide, with Marcus Hogberg deciding to hold onto the puck and settle things down.

With just under three minutes to play in the second, Toews got the puck in front to Kane who wristed it off of Kubalik’s shin pads and into the net, bringing the Blackhawks within one. That’s how the second period would end, with the Blackhawks needing to get another goal to come all the way back and tie things up.

Third period:

There was a lot of back and forth to start the third. Both teams were generating chances and getting shots on the opposing teams’ goal. Toews out-waited the Senators’ defense and whipped a pass up to Kubalik who took the puck and wristed it past Hogberg to make it 2-2 in the game. The Blackhawks continued to generate good chances, win faceoffs, and do all that they could do to break the tie that they helped create. Kane tried to set up Kubalik for his first hat trick in the NHL, but wasn’t able to get the pass over to him for a shot attempt. Then, Kubalik was set up again by Kane, who tried to deposit the puck between the pads, but it was stopped by Hogberg. The Blackhawks did a good job of keeping the puck out of their own zone and in their possession, but weren’t able to score. The period would end in the same 2-2 score, sending this game to overtime.

The Blackhawks would end the game quickly on an incredible individual effort by Toews who burst right through the Senators’ defenders, went around the net, and flung a wicked wrister past the glove of Hogberg, giving the Blackhawks a 3-2 victory.

Let’s go around the boards and see what was being talked about tonight during the game:

#Blackhawks line of Kubalik-Toews-Kane in 10:01 of 5-on-5 action vs. Ottawa:

— 11 shot attempts for and 5 against
— 7 scoring chances for and 0 against
— 4 high-danger chances for and 0 against
— 2 goals for and 0 against

They combined for 3 goals and 4 assists tonight.

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) January 15, 2020

Yes, the Blackhawks’ first line was this good. It’s insane that they only allowed five shot attempts against them, which didn’t necessarily wind up being shots on goal. This is quite an incredible performance, but did come against the Senators, so it should somewhat be taken with a grain of salt.

Patrick Kane this season vs Canadian teams

9 games
9 goals
11 assists (2 tonight)
20 points#Blackhawks

— Christopher Kamka (@ckamka) January 15, 2020

Patrick Kane likes to play Canadian teams. I’m really hoping that this point streak is able to continue against a better opponent in Montreal than they saw tonight. But Toews, Kane, and Kubalik looks like a great first line to me!

https://twitter.com/HeresYourReplay/status/1217281265860337665?s=20

Yes, I just had to put up this gorgeous winner for everyone to see again. Man, what an individual effort by number nineteen in white! He looked like the Jonathan Toews of old on this play, and singlehandedly beat all three of the Senators’ defenders, who were barely able to get a stick on him.

Looking to pick up their third win in a row, the Blackhawks will be back in action on Wednesday night versus the Montreal Canadiens at 6:30 p.m. CST on NBC Sports Chicago.

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks first line comes up big, beats Senators 3—2 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.

Despite missing plenty of key players due to injuries, including Sidney Crosby, the Penguins continue to look impressive, putting together a 16-6-4 record. After participating in practices, there is a high chance that Crosby plays tonight against the Avalanche. Colorado will also see a familiar face on the Penguins roster, as former Colorado Eagles forward Andrew Agozzino was called up the Penguins active roster. Carrying a 7-2-1 record through their past 10 games, they will be a good test for the Avalanche to kick off this important midseason home stretch.

Hitting a midseason slump, the Avs carry are 3-6-1 record in their last 10 games played, with key losses coming against the Minnesota Wild, Winnipeg Jets, Dallas Stars, and the Chicago Blackhawks. With the top line of Gabriel Landeskog, Nathan MacKinnon, and Mikko Rantanen being reunited, it appears as if Avalanche head coach Jared Bednar has decided to shift the lines.

Below is the projected lineup that you can expect from the Avs.

Forwards
92 Gabriel Landeskog – 29 Nathan MacKinnon – 96 Mikko Rantanen
95 Andre Burakovsky – 91 Nazem Kadri – 13 Valeri Nichushkin
83 Matt Nieto – 41 Pierre-Edouard Bellemare – 11 Matt Calvert
17 Tyson Jost – 37 J.T. Compher – 81 Vladislav Kamenev

Defensemen
27 Ryan Graves – 8 Cale Makar
49 Samuel Girard – 6 Erik Johnson
16 Nikita Zadorov – 28 Ian Cole

Goaltender
39 Pavel Francouz
31 Philipp Grubauer

Healthy Scratch: Mark Barberio

Injury Report: Joonas Donskoi (concussion protocol), Colin Wilson (lower body, out indefinitely)

With Grubauer struggling to find his form, the Avs will be turning to Pavel Francouz, who was in goal for the Avs narrow 1-0 loss against the Islanders.

“We feel like he gives us a good option to win a hockey game,” head coach Jared Bednar said of Francouz, who owns an 11-4-1 record, 2.32 goals-against average and .929 save percentage this season. “He hasn’t played in a little bit. He’s played good when he’s been in.”

The post PREVIEW: Colorado Avalanche vs. Pittsburgh Penguins appeared first on The Rink.

First period:

The game got started off with some craziness from both sides. First, Pekka Rinne got his stick stuck in the Zamboni door, which created a chance that the Blackhawks couldn’t capitalize on. For the first period, this would be the first and really last of the good chances that the Blackhawks would be able to muster at all. Then, Roman Josi came sneaking into the Blackhawks’ zone and put the puck off of Viktor Arvidsson’s shin pads and into the back of the net to give the Predators a 1-0 lead.

Then, a few minutes later, Colin Blackwell got a great pass out in front of the net and put it past Corey Crawford to give the Predators a 2—0 lead. This was his first NHL goal after missing an open net earlier in the game. Then, Matt Duchene took advantage of the Blackhawks’ cluelessness after he was trapped deep in the offensive zone. The Blackhawks thought that they cleared it, but Mattias Ekholm managed to keep it in and get it up to Duchene, who made a nice move to get it past Crawford and make it 3-0 Nashville. Through it all, head coach Jeremy Colliton looked like he couldn’t have cared less if he was behind the bench or not.

Second period:

The Blackhawks in the second period looked like a very different team than the first period. They came out looking like they actually wanted to play, and put good pressure on Nashville from the get-go. They came up with one in the first part of the period with a Dominik Kubalik goal to make it 3-1 Predators. They put good pressure on, and continued to get shots, although they weren’t able to convert on any chances they had. They looked like they should have looked at the beginning of the game, if they had shown up and wanted to play.

No. 14 of the season for Kubalik was gnarly#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/3uQE9g3Mwq

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 10, 2020

Third period:

The Blackhawks started off the period well, getting good pressure on Nashville that eventually resulted in a power play opportunity. The Blackhawks streaked into the zone, with Patrick Kane getting the puck over to Jonathan Toews who passed it in front of the net to Alex DeBrincat. He made some beautiful moves to get Rinne to bite, and backhanded it past him to make it 3-2 Predators and pull the Blackhawks to within one goal. They kept the pressure up well throughout the period. Then…they pulled Crawford, and things went downhill quickly. The Predators got an empty netter on a Nick Bonino heave with under a minute to go. The Blackhawks pulled Crawford again and then allowed something that made you want to laugh and cry at the same time: a goal for Pekka Rinne, who cleared the puck all the way down the ice and into the vacated net to the cheers of his teammates.

Along the boards:

has jeremy colliton ever raised his voice once in his life

— Let's Get Bedarded (@FAUXSPORTZ) January 10, 2020

This is something I, and many Blackhawks fans, have wondered over the course of his time as a head coach. He rarely, if ever, shows emotion on the bench, and doesn’t seem to have the fire or passion for the game that he ought to have. No one should be shocked if big changes come down to the management structure of this team, from president down to the head coach.

Pekka Rinne shoots and scores. This is real. #Blackhawks down 5-2.

— jeff gerharz (@jeffg2112) January 10, 2020

Yeah…not the way anyone wanted to see this end. Even more salt in the wound of what was already a brutal game of blown chances, and a coach who shows no fight at all, and therefore cannot expect his players to either. The Blackhawks didn’t come out ready to play and payed the price dearly for it, creating a hole so deep that they couldn’t climb back out.

Hopefully the Blackhawks can turn things around on Saturday night against the Ducks. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. CST on NBC Sports Chicago.

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks lose to “fragile” Predators, 5-2 appeared first on The Rink.

The mid-season drag of the schedule hits you and you’re stuck in a middle-limbo state where the excitement of a fresh new season has worn off, but the prospect of a playoff push hasn’t truly set in yet. The mantra of every game and every point matter can get stale, but its truth doesn’t change.

For the Rockford IceHogs, the mid-season winter blues are hitting hard. Following a loss to the Chicago Wolves on Sunday night, the first loss to the rival Wolves this season, the IceHogs are still looking for their first win since before the Christmas holiday break and have tied their longest losing streak since late 2017.

Depleted IceHogs hitting slump

Rockford has dropped their last six games in a row, all in regulation. Once sitting in second-place in the AHL Central Division, the IceHogs have stayed stagnant at 35 points in the standings since December 21 and have fallen into fifth-place in the Division. Although based on points-percentage, the IceHogs still sit in third with 35 points in 34 games played, the fewest games played in the Central Division. But sugar-coating it does no one any service. The IceHogs need points.

Four of the six-straight regulation losses for the IceHogs have all been one-goal games. This season, Rockford holds a 4-6-2 record in one-goal games, excluding shootouts. Being able to close the deal on close games could be a learning opportunity for a young IceHogs roster, but it would be good for head coach Derek King to have a just a few more veteran players who know the drill to be able to lead the rookies both on and off the ice in tight situations.

Philipp Kurashev of the Rockford IceHogs (Photo Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs.)

The IceHogs have had their hand forced this season by injuries and call-ups to play their young players more consistently and have to dig deep into the organization to fill roster spots. Missing from the IceHogs lineup for a significant amount of time already this season, either due to injury or being recalled to the Chicago Blackhawks include Adam Boqvist, Dennis Gilbert, John Quenneville, Dylan Sikura, Matthew Highmore, Anton Wedin and Alexandre Fortin. It appears as though Gilbert and Boqvist will not be re-joining the IceHogs this season after season-ending injuries to Calvin de Haan and Brent Seabrook. Highmore and Sikura continue to draw into the Blackhawks roster and could also make the decision to send them back to Rockford difficult for the Blackhawks management if/when Drake Caggiula and Andrew Shaw return to health.

That’s a large chunk of the IceHogs’ early season production gone from the current roster. Players who were either producing points or playing significant minutes gone during a pivotal point of the season. It’s no excuse though, as such is life in the AHL as injuries and call-ups are dealt with league-wide.

Brandon Hagel of the Rockford IceHogs (Photo Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs.)

It’s now on the IceHogs remaining in Rockford to step up to the plate and fill those voids. Captain Tyler Sikura leads the team in points (21) and has been moved around the lineup all season, but hasn’t seen his game change. Rookies Brandon Hagel and Philipp Kurashev have stepped up their production with their new roles on the current roster, ranking second and tied for third on the team in scoring this season.

The depth of the Blackhawks organization is being tested. The IceHogs are relying on a hefty amount of rookies and Indy Fuel call-ups to fill their lineup and fill the score-sheet, trying not to lose too much footing in the standings and have to play catch up late in the season.

Hey now, you’re an All-Star…

The AHL All-Star game is being held in Ontario, California on January 26-27. Kevin Lankinen will be the only Rockford IceHogs player heading to the All-Star game this season after being named to the Central Division roster late last week.

Kevin Lankinen of the Rockford IceHogs (Photo Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs.)

Lankinen, currently with the Chicago Blackhawks on an emergency basis, got off to a hot-start with the IceHogs this season, but has cooled in his last few starts for Rockford. Lankinen holds a 7-7-1 record this season, with a 3.17 GAA and a .905 save percentage. He has dropped his last four starts for the IceHogs, including being pulled in the first period against the Manitoba Moose on December 31, a 4-3 loss for the IceHogs.

Daddy Delia

Some off-ice news for the IceHogs as Collin Delia and his partner Ava announced on Instagram over the weekend that they are expecting their first child. The couple made the announcement through their leather company’s social media account.

Collin Delia of the Rockford IceHogs (Photo Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs.)

Delia has been trending up for the IceHogs after a slow start to the season. He holds a 6-7-0 record on the year, with a 3.04 GAA and a .901 save percentage. After starting the year 2-5-0, Delia has won four of his last six starts and has a .939 save percentage over his last seven appearances for Rockford.

Cup check

Even more news for the IceHogs goaltending trio as Matt Tomkins returned to Rockford after playing for Team Canada at the Spengler Cup in Davos, Switzerland from December 26-31. Tomkins played in one game for Canada, a 5-1 win over HC Davos during the group round, making 22 saves on 23 shots faced. Canada would eventually go on to win their fourth Spengler Cup in-a-row and their 16th Spengler Cup.

Matt Tomkins of the Rockford IceHogs (Photo Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs.)

Tomkins has been splitting time in net for the IceHogs along with Lankinen and Delia and has been much more than just a third goalie. Tomkins has a 4-2-0 record this season and holds the best numbers of the trio with a 2.66 GAA and a .912 save percentage in six starts this year. Tomkins’ last start came on December 13, a 5-2 loss to the Belleville Senators.

Holm terminates contract

Over the weekend, the Chicago Blackhawks organization and Philip Holm came to an agreement to terminate the defenseman’s contract with the club. Holm signed a one-year deal with the organization this summer after playing for Torpedo Nizhny Novgorod in the KHL and being named a KHL All-Star last season. Holm’s agent cited that Philip was unhappy with not being called up to the Blackhawks this season and had decided to return to playing in Europe. According to reports, Holm is set to join Lausanne HC in Switzerland.

Philip Holm of the Rockford IceHogs (Photo Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs.)

In his time with the IceHogs, Holm was a consistent defenseman and produced decently from the blue-line. He played in 30 games for Rockford, scoring 15 points (four goals, 11 assists) and was a plus-four rating.

First of many?

It finally happened. Dylan Sikura, playing in his sixth game with the Blackhawks this season and 44th career NHL game with Chicago, finally scored his first NHL goal.

The FIRST NHL goal for Dylan Sikura! @NHLBlackhawks | #DETvsCHI pic.twitter.com/XnXB79KirK

— NBC Sports Hockey (@NBCSportsHockey) January 6, 2020

The younger Sikura brother has been a focal-point in the Blackhawks’ farm system for a few years now. He was labeled as the next big prospect to jump into the NHL system for Chicago when he signed his professional contract after a successful NCAA career at Northeastern University. Sikura showed his skill in the AHL, but had difficulty translating it fully to the NHL level. He has slotted into the Chicago lineup this season, at the expense of Alexander Nylander as of late, and has made the most of his opportunity. If he continues to improve and produce, he likely will not re-join the IceHogs this season. He has 16 points in 22 games for Rockford this season.

Turn down for Wat-son

As mentioned before, the IceHogs are dealing with a hefty amount of injuries and call-ups that have plucked top players from the roster in the last month or so. With that comes call-ups for the IceHogs and one player that could make a significant impact while in Rockford is Spencer Watson. A former seventh-round pick by the Los Angeles Kings, Watson has been a prolific scorer in the ECHL, but has not been able to translate that success into the AHL ranks. Watson has 131 points in 131 career ECHL games, but only five points in 24 career AHL games.

Spencer Watson of the Rockford IceHogs (Photo Courtesy: Rockford IceHogs.)

Watson joined the IceHogs and Fuel last season after the Blackhawks acquired him from the Kings for Matheson Iacopelli. Watson skated in 10 games for the IceHogs last year, tallying three points. This season with the Indy Fuel, Watson has 39 points in 33 games played. He ranks in a tie for third in the ECHL in points and is second in the league with 20 goals this season. Watson was named an ECHL All-Star on Monday afternoon.

What’s Next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back in action on Wednesday, January 8 as they host the Manitoba Moose. Wednesday night’s puck drop is set for 7 p.m. CST at the BMO Harris Bank Center in Rockford. The IceHogs hold a 1-2-0 record over the Moose this season.

Following Wednesday night’s contest, the IceHogs travel North to Milwaukee to take on the Milwaukee Admirals for back to back road games on Friday and Saturday night at the Panther Arena in Milwaukee. Friday night’s puck drop is set for 7 p.m. CST, while Saturday’s game starts at 6 p.m. CST. The IceHogs hold a 1-1-0 record against the Admirals this season. Five of the next 12 games for the IceHogs come against the Admirals, who lead the AHL Central Division with 54 points.

The post War Pigs Report: IceHogs feeling winter blues 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-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “JJ” call a last-minute audible with Steel feature writer Ray Napientek, following the big injury news of the holiday.

• Brand new review from Jackie Davis
• Brent Seabrook and Calvin de Haan are on LTIR and done for the season.
• What could this mean for Brent Seabrook’s career?
• Where to go now?
• It wouldn’t be a Rinkcast without some goalie talk.
• We wrap with a short 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 8 – Seabrook eulogy appeared first on The Rink.

No. You know what? No.

I wanted to do something creative for the last game before the Christmas holiday break. But the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday night gave me something the team showed in their 60-minute effort, no motivation.

After opening the scoring in the first period on a hard-working shift from the Matthew Highmore–Zack Smith–David Kampf line that ended in Smith tucking a wrap around attempt, the Blackhawks were out-muscled, out-worked, out-chanced and just flat out ran off of their home ice by the second-to-last in the Eastern Conference New Jersey Devils.

In stead of painstakingly going through every goal that the Devils scored, there’s a just a few takeaways from this effort by the Blackhawks. Following impressive games on the road against the Winnipeg Jets and Colorado Avalanche, the Blackhawks had an opportunity to build momentum into the Holiday break with a win over a team that, on paper, would be vulnerable.

Corey Crawford appears to “pull himself” after #Blackhawks allow the 4th #Devils goal of the game, 3rd of the 2nd period#CHIvsNJD #NHL pic.twitter.com/GG8l00mvRs

— Mario Tirabassi (@Mario_Tirabassi) December 24, 2019

Instead, the Blackhawks had these key moments happen over the 60 minutes on Monday night:

• Lost Adam Boqvist to a shoulder injury early in the first period
• Went 0-for-7 on the powerplay
• Were out-shot 44-33
• Corey Crawford pulled himself from the game
• Eddie Olczyk snag ‘Happy Birthday’ to Pat Foley while he ate cake and ice cream on the air
• Chicago lost their sixth-straight game heading into the Christmas holiday break

The last time the Blackhawks won the game leading into the Christmas holiday break was December 23, 2013 against the New Jersey Devils. That win gave the Blackhawks a 26-7-6 record at that point in the 2013-14 season. What a time, eh?

This year, losing to the Devils on Monday night sunk the Blackhawks to a 15-17-5 record, good for last in the Central Division and two points clear of a three-way time for last in the Western Conference. Chicago’s 36 points in the standings puts them in 26th in the league, prime draft lottery position.

After the game, Captain Jonathan Toews did not mince words about the inconsistency of the Blackhawks this season.

Toews' thoughts on Chicago's loss to the Devils. #CHIvsNJD pic.twitter.com/IRjLOGU9pr

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 24, 2019

Embarrassing. Enough is enough.

Words and phrases used by Toews following the 7-1 drubbing on Monday night for the Blackhawks.

The players feel it, but do those in coaching positions or front office positions also feel it? Are they willing to make drastic changes needed to give the team a direction? What is it going to take for the Blackhawks to figure something, anything, out this season?

They are not playoff contenders. They are, right now, playing for lottery position and the organization needs to figure out if they are going to lean into that and actually, for realsies, go into a rebuilding mode or try to make the hand they have been dealt into a winner.

There are no magic call-ups coming from the Rockford IceHogs that will fix the Blackhawks’ problems. There is no cavalry.

There is no pointing to the St. Louis Blues of last season being in last-place on January 2 and going all the way to winning the Stanley Cup. That is not a comparison to this Blackhawks team because that Blues run required two major components: A coaching change and a major roster shake-up. As it currently stands, the Blackhawks are not heading in a direction as an organization to make either of those kinds of moves.

https://twitter.com/jcgreenx/status/1209340253313609729?s=20

The Blackhawks are a rudder-less ship with a crew that is side-eyeing the captain while they swab the deck and repair the 35.9 cannonball holes that repeatedly slam the hull of the vessel every night.

There is no hope to sell to the fans.

I wish I has better things to say about the Blackhawks on the eve of Christmas Eve, but I don’t. Night in and night out, fans do not know which Chicago team to expect to show up and that being the only constant for this club is going to sink them out of the Stanley Cup playoffs for the third-straight season.

Enough is enough for Jonathan Toews. I’ve had enough. Have you?

The Blackhawks are back in action on Friday, December 27 against the New York Islanders. The first of two meetings between the clubs this season, Friday night’s puck drop is set for 7:30 p.m. CST at the United Center.

Merry Christmas. Happy Holiday. Where’s the Tylenol?

The post Along the Boards: “Enough is enough.” Blackhawks lose 7-1 to Devils 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.

Okay, I didn’t expect to be writing these words either after how the team played against Colorado last night, but this team made me eat my words. They looked genuinely good, not like a team that was three games under the .500 mark coming into the game. Patrick Kane had an incredible game, creating all of the offense the Blackhawks churned out tonight, and showing off the incredible talent that he is known for. He, along with plenty of saves from Robin Lehner, guided the Blackhawks to victory tonight.

Adam Boqvist had a gorgeous pass in the first, turning around to pass the puck across the blue line to Keith. Although he had some rough parts to the game, he played solid overall and showed some glimpses of what could be to come. The Blackhawks were solid defensively, without any glaringly bad giveaways, and controlling the pace of play overall against a team that should have been more well rested than they were, having just played last night.

They did a good job of shielding Robin Lehner from rebounds, usually allowing the initial shot, and then clearing it away right after. Lehner had a characteristically good game, and made some amazing saves, as has been happening all season. He has been the sole reason the Blackhawks have even been able to stay remotely competitive in many games this season, including tonight. He made some absolutely astounding saves, the kind that make you say “how did he get there?!?” Their hustle, overall, had the team looking like a formidable opponent all game long. They did the little things right, attempting to negate icings, getting sticks into passing lanes, and making passes that hit their mark more often than they didn’t. The team looked crisp, clean, and worked well together to handle the rushes that Winnipeg sent their way.

Showtime is having himself a night! pic.twitter.com/GsMNLG3GEO

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 20, 2019

Patrick Kane had himself a night. Dishing out three assists, and scoring the last goal for the Blackhawks, he is the one consistent thing the team has been able to muster on offense. He’s looking like the superstar he has the last few seasons for the ‘Hawks, and a huge reason why they’ve able to stay competitive despite all of the things that have gone wrong so far this year.

GREAT WIN BOYS!!!! Silenced Winnipeg!

Kane with a 4 point night and EXTEND ROBIN LEHNER!!! #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/Ufm6eLgpww

— AJB (@Arjun_AJB15) December 20, 2019

I think this statement is one that most Blackhawks fans would agree this season (even though they actually can’t sign him until the new year). Robin Lehner has been nothing but spectacular for the Blackhawks this season, with his .924 save percentage ranking among the league leaders going into the game tonight, and his performance doing nothing to change the public perception of him. This game wouldn’t have been such a convincing win without him, as he made some incredible stops against some of Winnipeg’s best players in Mark Scheifele, Kyle Connor, and Patrik Laine.

The Blackhawks recorded their highest expected goals for percentage of the season in tonight's win at 64.83% (5v5 score & venue adjusted from @NatStatTrick). It can be measured as a quality win in a number of ways.

— Scott Powers (@ByScottPowers) December 20, 2019

It definitely seemed like the Blackhawks were able to get comfortable tonight. The first ten minutes of the game were some of the best minutes of hockey they have played this entire season. Starting off that well has been something that has proved unsustainable for the team this season thus far, but after a rocky second period, the team tightened down and didn’t allow many of the Jets’ chances to turn into rebounds. They were good at getting the puck out of the zone, and didn’t allow the Jets to hang out for too long.

What do you guys think? Did the Blackhawks show you enough tonight to get you to buy in again? Let us know what stood out to you about this game, as well as some things you believe the Balckhawks still need to improve on in the comments below.

The post Along the Boards: Blackhawks jostle the Jets, 4-1 appeared first on The Rink.

Great White North

The IceHogs faced a tough and historic Canadian road trip that started back on Friday when Rockford took on the Belleville Senators for the first time in AHL franchise history. It would mark the first of three games for the IceHogs against Canadian opponents on the road over the next five days. Rockford got off to a slow start against the Senators on Friday, falling behind 1–0 on a shorthanded goal in the first period and down 2–0 just 28 seconds into the second period.

Brandon Hagel (left) and Philipp Kurashev (right) try to take the puck away from Alex Formenton of the Belleville Senators on Dec. 13, 2019. (Photograph courtesy of the Belleville Senators)

The IceHogs were able to swing the game’s momentum back in their favor in the second period with Nicolas Beaudin scoring his first professional goal to make it a 2–1 game heading into the third period.

Just as the Senators opened the second period with a fast goal, the IceHogs returned the favor as John Quenneville scored his fifth goal of the season to tie the game 2–2 early in the third period. Belleville battled back though, scoring three unanswered goals to take a 5–2 win over the IceHogs in the first-ever meeting between the teams. Matt Tomkins was in net for the IceHogs, making 26 saves on 30 shots faced, seeing his record fall to 4–2–0 on the year.

Dmitry Osipov (center) protects the net for Kevin Lankinen (right) against the Toronto Marlies on Dec. 15, 2019. (Photograph courtesy of Christian Bonin / TSGphoto.com)

Following the loss in Belleville, the IceHogs remained in Ontario to take on the Toronto Marlies on Sunday. The second of two meetings between the clubs this season, the IceHogs were able to take the game on Sunday and sweep the season two-game mini series.

Rockford was backstopped by Kevin Lankinen against the Marlies. Lankinen’s last performance was a record-setting 55-save effort against the Milwaukee Admirals in a 2–1 overtime win. His action on Sunday against Toronto was much different, only facing 13 shots and making 11 saves in the 4–2 win. Lankinen’s record on the season improved to 7–3–1, as he was helped offensively by Quenneville (two goals, one assist) and Philipp Kurashev (one goal, two assists), both with three points on the night.

Collin Delia makes a save for the Rockford IceHogs against Laval Rocket on Dec. 17, 2019. (Photograph courtesy of the Laval Rocket)

Wrapping up the Canadian road trip for the IceHogs would be another two-game mini-series finale game, this time against Laval Rocket in Laval, Quebec, Canada. Unlike against the Marlies, the IceHogs dropped the first meeting this season against the Rocket back in Rockford. Looking to split the mini series, the IceHogs were quickly down in a 2–0 hole against the Rocket in the first period.

Collin Delia got the start in net against Laval, coming off back-to-back wins in his last two starts. After giving up only 13 total shots against the Marlies, the IceHogs gave up 16 shots in the first period against the Rocket, with Delia making 14 saves. Battling back, the IceHogs cut into the Rocket lead in the second period thanks to a shorthanded goal from Joseph Cramarossa, his first with the IceHogs this season.

Trailing 2–1 heading into the third period, Rockford would benefit from another player scoring their first goal with the team this season, as Dmitry Osipov tied the game with his first career AHL goal. Knotted up at 2–2, the IceHogs forced overtime and eventually went to the shootout. Delia stood tall again for the IceHogs, making stops on all five shooters he faced in the shootout, leading to Anton Wedin getting the eventual winner for Rockford.

Going 2–1–0 on the road trip, the IceHogs record improves to 16–10–1 on the year. They sit in second place in the AHL Central Division with 33 points in 27 games played, 12 points behind the first place Milwaukee Admirals. Rockford’s 27 games played are the fewest in the Central Division.

Killer pigs

The IceHogs current run since Oct. 30 has been impressive. A 14–5–1 record over their last 20 games has helped propel Rockford into their current second-place standing in the Central Division. A major component to their success, surprisingly, has been the IceHogs’ special-teams work on the penalty kill.

Collin Delia (1) celebrates with Kevin Lankinen (30) after a win over the Grand Rapids Griffins. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Once the worst unit in the AHL, the IceHogs now possess the league’s 25th-ranked penalty kill. While that is still far from stellar, Rockford been great over its last 20 games while playing a man down. The IceHogs have killed 31 of their last 33 penalties against them, including 18 straight heading into their game against Laval on Tuesday night. Paired with above-average goaltending across the board in net for the IceHogs, facing a man advantage has not been a struggle during their recent run. Rockford also sits in a tie for third in the AHL with seven shorthanded goals for this season.

And the beat goes on

While the improvements to the penalty kill have helped keep opponents off the board against the IceHogs, the loss of a few key players for Rockford has created a hole offensively. With injuries to the Chicago Blackhawks, the IceHogs have seen top minute eaters and point producers be recalled to the NHL. Losing Adam Boqvist, Dennis Gilbert, Matthew Highmore and Dylan Sikura in the last two weeks has provided a tough obstacle for the IceHogs to handle. Those four players account for a major chunk of production for Rockford and have forced head coach Derek King to play players in roles they have not been exposed to at this point in the season.

Tyler Sikura talks with Ian McCoshen during Rockford’s game against the Laval Rocket on Dec. 17, 2019. (Photograph courtesy of the Laval Rocket)

To the benefit of the IceHogs, those players have stepped up and filled the holes left by the major four players being recalled to Chicago. With an already young roster, the IceHogs’ rookie class has been on full display over the last handful of games. Players like Nicolas Beaudin, MacKenzie Entwistle, Brandon Hagel and Kurashev have seen their roles in the lineup and minutes played increase and they have responded well to those assignments.

Along with increasing the minutes and responsibilities for the rookies, the IceHogs have also benefited from recalls themselves. Adding Dylan McLaughlin, Osipov, Mathew Thompson and Ben Youds from the ECHL’s Indy Fuel, the IceHogs are seeing value form the depth of the Chicago Blackhawks’ organization. Youds has four assists in four games since signing a PTO with Rockford, while Osipov has played significant minutes in the defensive lineup and tallied his first AHL goal on Tuesday night.

Colliton: "We do feel that both Boqvist and Gilbert have earned the chance to continue to take steps forward. So they need opportunity to do it."

— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) December 18, 2019

Opportunities continue to loom large for the young IceHogs, as it looks like the Blackhawks may not be ready to let go of Boqvist and Gilbert from their defensive rotation anytime soon. Rockford will look for continued growth from their rookie class to continue their current run of success.

Hot Hogs

As their current form continues to push them toward the top of the AHL Central Division, the IceHogs are riding a few hot streaks along the way.

Rockford IceHogs goaltender Kevin Lankinen warms up prior to facing against the Toronto Marlies on Dec. 15, 2019. (Photograph courtesy of Christian Bonin / TSGphoto.com)

Rockford’s recent hot streaks start in net with Kevin Lankinen, who has won three of his last four starts, including setting the IceHogs’ AHL franchise record with 55 saves against the Milwaukee Admirals on Dec. 10. Lankinen leads the IceHogs with a .924 save percentage this season, which ranks seventh in the AHL. He has allowed two or fewer goals in seven of his 11 starts this season, all victories.

Philipp Kurashev of the Rockford IceHogs skates during a game in the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

As mentioned before, the IceHogs are currently leaning heavily on rookie production to keep their current pace alive. One of the rookies that has stepped up into a major role is forward Philipp Kurashev. After a slow start to the season, much like most of the Rockford rookies, Kurashev has turned a corner and is now playing top-line minutes and in all situations for the IceHogs. Kurashev has eight points in his last nine games, including a three-point night against the Toronto Marlies on Sunday. He ranks in a four-way tie for second on the team in scoring and is tied for the team lead with Brandon Hagel for rookie scoring with 13 points in 25 games played.

John Quenneville of the Rockford IceHogs carries the puck up ice during the 2019–20 season. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

But it is not all rookies, all the time for the IceHogs. Veteran leadership has played a key role in their recent successful stretch of play. Leading the way is one of the young vets of the team in John Quenneville. After missing a portion of the season early with an injury, Quenneville has slotted into a top role offensively for the IceHogs. He has 10 points in 17 games played this season and ranks third on the team in goals with seven. In his last 13 games, Quenneville has tallied nine points and is currently is riding a three-game point streak with five points over that span.

Collin Delia makes a save against the Manitoba Moose. (Photograph courtesy of the Rockford IceHogs)

Finally, returning to the net, the IceHogs were hoping Collin Delia would be their sure-fire No. 1 starter from day one of the season. He was given that role but did not play up to it early on in the year. After losing ice time to Lankinen and Matt Tomkins, Delia has rebounded from his sub-par start to the year. Delia is 3–0–0 in his last three starts, having allowed just five goals over that span and stopping 96 of 101 shots faced (.951 save percentage) during that span. His record this season is 5–5–0 through 10 starts with a .892 save percentage and a 3.30 goals against average.

One last note from the vaunted Rockford IceHogs fun fact department: The IceHogs have not lost back-to-back games over their last 20 contests.

What’s next?

The Rockford IceHogs are back in action on Friday, as they take on the Texas Stars in a home divisional matchup. Rockford lost the only matchup between the teams this season, a 7–6 shootout loss on Nov. 23 in Cedar Park, Texas. Friday’s contest is set for a 7 p.m. CST puck drop at the BMO Harris Bank Center in Rockford.

Following Friday, the IceHogs turn around for another home game on Saturday night, hosting the Cleveland Monsters. The third of four meetings between the teams this season, Rockford dropped the first two meetings with back-to-back losses in Cleveland on Oct. 25–26. Saturday’s puck drop is scheduled for 6 p.m. CST in Rockford.

The post War Pigs report: IceHogs take two of three on Canadian road trip appeared first on The Rink.

The Blackhawks were lucky to not be down a couple of goals at the start of this game. Robin Lehner stopped a few prime scoring chances from directly in front of the net within the first five minutes of the opening period.

Chicago actually turned it on and had a few decent shifts in the offensive zone. The second line of Alexander Nylander, Dylan Strome, and Patrick Kane pressured the Wild defense. Kane came away with the puck and converted on his second attempt, although the goal needed video review to prove it actually went in the net.

https://twitter.com/juliananikac/status/1206369123405426688

Kane scored again on the power play, and this time the puck clearly went in the net past Kaapo Kahkonen (not to be confused with Kaapo Kakko) to give the Blackhawks a 2-0 lead. But the Wild quickly drew a penalty of their own and Eric Staal sniped a shot right by Lehner on the power play to collect the 1,000th point of his career.

Congrats on 1,000 points, Eric Staal! pic.twitter.com/ykuZ1HG1LL

— NHL GIFs (@NHLGIFs) December 16, 2019

In the second period, Kane’s pass in the offensive zone was blocked by Zach Parise and Kevin Fiala found himself on a partial breakaway. Fiala lifted a shot by Lehner’s shoulder to tie the game at two.

However, that tie disappeared halfway through the period when Connor Murphy‘s original shot was deflected by David Kampf to give the Blackhawks a 3-2 lead. And again, another lead for Chicago disappeared when Fiala’s attempt at a pass went off Olli Maata‘s skate and in the net.

The third period was mostly boring, until the Blackhawks capitalized after a good shift with established pressure in their offensive zone. Once again, Murphy’s shot from the blue line was deflected through multiple players in front of the Wild’s net. Brandon Saad was credited with the game-winning goal to give Chicago a 4-3 lead.

Not sure who scored this one…but the #Blackhawks have a 4-3 lead pic.twitter.com/xo6JnbdMwE

— Juliana Nikac (@juliananikac) December 16, 2019

While the Wild pressured as the end of the game neared, the Blackhawks kept fighting for possession with the net empty and hard work by Jonathan Toews led to Patrick Kane’s empty-net goal. That goal secured the sixth hat trick of Kane’s career and the Blackhawks’ first win in the last five games.

Around The Boards

The Hawks looked decent: After four purely brutal games, the Blackhawks put together a much better effort tonight. They defended better and they were way better on the forecheck. There weren’t as many defensive breakdowns that we’re accustomed to seeing each night. Overall, this was a decent game by Chicago.

Erik Gustafsson was…good?: Most Blackhawks fans harp on Erik Gustafsson, and rightfully so. But he had a great game tonight. He had multiple scoring chances, eight shot attempts, and was only on the ice for one high-danger chance against. Gustafsson also made some notable defensive plays, including a great stick check to break up Kevin Fiala’s breakaway in the first period.

Stop giving up multi-goal leads: As Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times noted on Twitter, the Blackhawks have blown four multi-goal leads in the last seven games. That’s just not acceptable. They’re not good enough to be able to sit back and relax with any sort of lead. It’s obviously just one problem out of many this team has, but it’s a crazy stat that should be pointed out.

The Blackhawks will face off against the Colorado Avalanche at home for Wednesday Night Hockey. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CST.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks snap four-game skid, defeat Wild 5-3 appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “JJ” get together for a pre-game Rinkcast just prior to the Blackhawks facing the Arizona Coyotes.

• The Blackhawks play a bunch of overtime and shootout games.
• Injuries to Keith, Shaw, and de Haan.
• Some big announcements regarding The-Rink
• Mario gives us another “award-winning” #Warpigs report.
• More on what the future holds with Jeremy Colliton, Corey Crawford, and Robin Lehner
• Why trading Robin Lehner is not only stupid but unlikely.
• We wrap up with the Blackhawks down 3–0 in the first period.
• We wrap with the 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 7 – Holiday puck bag appeared first on The Rink.

The lines and pairings for the home team were as follows:

Dominik Kubalik — Jonathan Toews — Brandon Saad

Alex DeBrincat — Dylan Strome — Patrick Kane

Alexander Nylander — David Kampf — Dylan Sikura

Zack Smith — Kirby Dach — Ryan Carpenter

Slater Koekkoek — Connor Murphy

Calvin de Haan — Brent Seabrook

Dennis Gilbert — Erik Gustafsson

First period

The Blackhawks got off to a quick start in this game. With less than 60 seconds off the clock, Calvin de Haan entered the offensive zone cleanly and drove past a couple of Coyotes with the puck. He spotted a waiting Jonathan Toews to the right of Darcy Kuemper, and the captain found a way to put the puck in the yawning yet with a shot through the legs of Jason Demers.

Jonathan Toews gives the #Blackhawks the early 1-0 lead pic.twitter.com/yGN8hK90X0

— Juliana Nikac (@juliananikac) December 9, 2019

Both teams exchanged scoring chances following the goal, with Robin Lehner making a great save on Palos native Christian Dvorak. Kuemper then came up with a big glove save on a Zack Smith breakaway about seven minutes into the period.

With 11:47 left in the period, Demers tripped Brandon Saad as he entered the zone and the Blackhawks’ power play went to work. After the Coyotes had a shorthanded opportunity, Patrick Kane found a streaking Alex DeBrincat, who potted his eighth goal of the season.

The Coyotes’ line of former Chicago Mission players then got on the board after some great effort along the boards to gain puck possession. Nick Schmaltz found Christian Dvorak out in front and a scramble ensued before the puck eventually went off of Christian Fischer‘s skate and past Lehner.

Schmaltz → Dvorak → Fischer.

You knew the @ChicagoMission line was going to score. pic.twitter.com/uJGKPBCclN

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) December 9, 2019

After their goal, the Coyotes tilted the ice in their favor and Lehner faced a decent amount of scoring chances for the next five minutes. But the Blackhawks were able to take an advantage of an offensive-zone faceoff that Jonathan Toews won. Connor Murphy retrieved the puck and simply flipped it towards the net, and Dominik Kubalik’s stick was right in the path of that shot. Kubalik tipped the puck by Kuemper and extended the Blackhawks’ lead to 3-1.

Just before the first period ended, Brent Seabrook took an interference penalty. The Blackhawks headed into the intermission with a 3-1 lead and 1:31 of a penalty to kill. Arizona led Chicago 16-11 in shots and 13-11 in scoring chances after 20 minutes.

Second period

The Blackhawks started the second period on the penalty kill and did a great job of limiting the Coyotes’ chances. For the next five minutes, each team got some good opportunities but nothing came from them.

Jonathan Toews then took a tripping minor and Chicago’s penalty kill went back to work, but they couldn’t stop the Coyotes from scoring and Conor Garland cut the Blackhawks’ lead to 3-2 with a power play goal.

Conor Garland's team leading 12th goal of the season comes just when we need it. pic.twitter.com/ouDzRk0JOr

— Arizona Coyotes (@ArizonaCoyotes) December 9, 2019

Just a few minutes later, Jason Demers hit Alex DeBrincat from behind and Dennis Gilbert stood up for his teammate by fighting the Arizona defenseman. However, Gilbert was called for instigating and given a 10-minute misconduct, but the officials didn’t call Demers for boarding, so the Blackhawks were back on the kill. Once again, they couldn’t keep the Coyotes from scoring on the man advantage and Carl Soderberg‘s shot at the end of the power play went off Slater Koekkoek’s stick and past Lehner to tie the game.

No scoring occurred after Arizona tied the game, but once again, both teams exchanged scoring opportunities. Jonathan Toews had a great chance to score and had Kuemper beat, but the puck was rolling on him and he couldn’t elevate it. Robin Lehner also made a few great saves, especially on the penalty kill late in the second.

https://twitter.com/HeresYourReplay/status/1203850322868940800

After 40 minutes, the Blackhawks and Coyotes headed into the intermission tied 3-3. Arizona led Chicago 27-20 in shots, but the home team had a 15-5 advantage in scoring chances.

Third period

Robin Lehner began the third period with a handful of great saves on the Coyotes, including a wide-open chance for speedy forward Michael Grabner.

Back-and-forth action continued with each team exchanging scoring chances, and then the Blackhawks took yet another penalty in the middle of the frame. For the most part, Chicago did a good job keeping Arizona to the outside and not allowing chances. Lehner did come up with two beautiful saves toward the end of the kill, including a beautiful one on Clayton Keller.

Holy cow, what a save by Robin Lehner #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/nSMSCZuDzW

— Juliana Nikac (@juliananikac) December 9, 2019

The Coyotes continued pressuring, and Lehner kept the Blackhawks alive. With no scoring in the third period, Arizona and Chicago headed into overtime. The Coyotes outshot the Blackhawks 44-25 in regulation, but only led 34-31 in scoring chances. This was Chicago’s third straight game needing extra time.

Overtime

Despite a faceoff win from Kane, the Coyotes maintained possession to begin overtime. Robin Lehner stunned everyone once again with a spectacular save on Jakob Chychrun.

Are you kidding me, Robin Lehner? #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/YtCye4CS13

— Juliana Nikac (@juliananikac) December 9, 2019

The Blackhawks then got a power play and moved the puck well, but passed too much and didn’t shoot enough. Toews was then called for a weak slash, and the Coyotes went to the power play where Lehner stood tall once again.

With all of those opportunities, neither team scored. So the Blackhawks headed to the skills competition for the second game in a row.

Shootout

Everyone knows shootouts are Robin Lehner’s one weakness in goal, and that was evident tonight. Jonathan Toews missed the net wide, and then Nick Schmaltz scored a nice goal. Patrick Kane countered with one of his own, but Conor Garland converted, too. Kirby Dach couldn’t be the Blackhawks’ savior tonight, and Chicago fell 4-3 to Arizona in the shootout.

Overall, the Coyotes outshot the Blackhawks 47-29 and out-chanced them 36-34. Here’s a summary of the night for Lehner:

and then the shootout happens and his save percentage is under .500 somehow https://t.co/uA6eTyFSgC

— dom (@domluszczyszyn) December 9, 2019

Pluses

• Once again, Robin Lehner stood on his head and kept the Blackhawks in the game. He made 44 saves, and a bunch of them were spectacular. It’s obvious he struggles in the shootout, but he’s absolutely a great goaltender otherwise.
• Alex DeBrincat scored tonight, and he’s now scored in three straight games after enduring a very long goal drought. It’s great to see pucks going in the net for him. Hopefully his last few games instill confidence in him and he can keep up his play.

Minuses

• There were a few iffy calls tonight, but the Blackhawks have got to stop taking unnecessary penalties. More discipline is needed.
• A consistent issue for this team this year has been passing too much on the power play. It’s gotten better over the last few games, and they’ve converted on opportunities in their last three games. But when you have the puck as much as they did during overtime and don’t shoot, that’s a problem.

The Blackhawks will head to Las Vegas on Tuesday to face off against the Golden Knights for the second time this season. Puck drop is scheduled for 9 p.m. CST.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks fall to Coyotes 4-3 in shootout appeared first on The Rink.

The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “JJ” are back at it to discuss the Blackhawks’ spiral downward and glaring mistakes.

• Thank you for the new review, Darth Hawkey
• We have (not one) but TWO new chapters opening up.  Colorado and Columbus.
• We take a few minutes to address the Marc Crawford/Bill Peters situation.
• The Blackhawks lose badly to the Avs twice and the Blues last night
• What can the Blackhawks do as an organization to fix this endless loop of mediocrity?
• Who is untouchable?  Is anyone untouchable?
• We wrap with the Rinkrat PuckBag segment.

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

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Saad—Toews—Shaw

DeBrincat—Carpenter—Kane

Kubalik—Smith—Dach

Nylander—Kampf—Wedin

Murphy—Maatta

de Haan—Seabrook

Koekkoek—Gustafsson

Lehner

First period: The game got off to a rough start for the Blackhawks, with Jonathan Toews taking a penalty less than thirty seconds into the game on a slash on Joonas Donskoi. Zack Smith took a steal up ice in a two-on-one and fed it across to Brandon Saad who put it past Phillip Grubauer to make it 1—0 Blackhawks on a shorthanded goal.

Kneel. Before. Saad.

Good guys strike first. Stream: https://t.co/mRcXCKrtKj pic.twitter.com/nMDIhqn2RW

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 1, 2019

Then, a minute later, Saad took the puck into the zone on a pass from Patrick Kane and put it off of the post, beating Grubauer again. The Avs got a great chance to drive to the net, but Andrew Shaw came across and got his stick in the way, not allowing a shot on goal. Wedin got called for a holding call at the 7:22 mark of the period, putting the Blackhawks shorthanded yet again. The Avs struck gold on this one, with Nazem Kadri getting a pass in front that he was able to put past Robin Lehner to tie the game at 1—1. A few minutes later, the Avalanche picked apart the Blackhawks defense, with the puck eventually ending up on Kadri’s stick yet again, who made the score 2—1 Avalanche. Then, the Blackhawks absolutely imploded defensively, allowing Nathan MacKinnon to put a Mikko Rantanen pass past Lehner again, making it 3—1 Avalanche. The Blackhawks were just getting run around the ice for most of the rest of the period, not making great plays and playing some very sloppy hockey. Their best chance came from a Toews drive to the net in which he looked like he was shot out of a cannon to get into the offensive zone, getting a great shot off that was saved by Grubauer. Cale Makar ripped one off the pipe that beat Lehner at the 16:46 mark of the period that luckily didn’t go. DeBrincat missed one that got across to him in front of the net, and then got a hit from Samuel Girard that he took exception to, getting into a scrap and getting a couple of good rights in.

The Cat is out of the bag. pic.twitter.com/x22LS4sr5u

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 1, 2019

The Blackhawks got their first powerplay of the game when David Kampf was held in the back of the net. The situation got even more important when Graves of the Avalanche got a four minute penalty for high sticking Shaw and drawing blood. The Avalanche killed off the first of those penalties before the period ended with a 3—1 Avalanche lead. The Blackhawks still had over 2:30 left on the powerplay going into the second to try to make something happen.

Second period: The Blackhawks started off the period with over 2:30 of powerplay time left on the double minor penalty from the first period but got the puck taken away and cleared every time you turned around. Just after that was killed off, Joonas Donskoi took a pass from Ryan Graves just out of the box and put it past Lehner, making it 4—1 Avalanche early on in the second period. Then, at the 5:50 mark of the period, Robin Lehner was chased after Mikko Rantanen put the puck past him to make it 5—1 Avalanche. Lehner was not happy going off, as he shouldn’t have been and made sure that his bench knew as much.

Robin Lehner visibly frustrated after being pulled down 5-1 in Colorado pic.twitter.com/55KUFUm2Mf

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 1, 2019

The Avs kept pressing even after jumping out to such a big lead, with MacKinnon putting the puck out in front to Donskoi again, who got the puck past Crawford to make it 6—1 Avalanche. The Blackhawks were outhustled, outplayed, and positively outclassed by the Avalanche once again a few minutes later, when Tyson Jost went all the way by himself to make it 7—1 Avalanche. Really, if you missed this game, nothing good happened for the Blackhawks in the second period for the first eleven minutes. Dominik Kubalik wristed the puck five-hole on Grubauer to get the Blackhawks to within five goals, and get the score to 7—2.

Don't call it a comeback?

Would be pretty epic. Stream: https://t.co/mRcXCKrtKj pic.twitter.com/PoGag8TL6H

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 1, 2019

The Blackhawks took a tripping penalty at the 14:26 mark of the period to put them down a man yet again, and giving the Avs a chance to add to their lead. The Blackhawks killed that penalty off with relative ease, as Crawford only had to make one or two good stops. The period would mercifully end with the Avalanche jumping out to a seemingly insurmountable advantage, leading 7—2 going into the intermission.

Third period: The period started off with a lot more back and forth, which was encouraging because it meant that the Blackhawks were sharing possession better than they had in the second period. Alex Nylander drew a trip in the offensive zone to put the Blackhawks on the powerplay early on in the period. They got more chances, and were actually able to keep the puck in their offensive zone enough to get some good chances in front of Grubauer. The Avalanche did kill that off, but the Blackhawks were able to actually not allow any bad chances the other way. The Blackhawks got some good puck movement going, allowing for more scoring chances in the period than they had in the past two. Kane got a puck across to DeBrincat on a three-on-two rush into the zone, with DeBrincat getting a one-timer off on Grubauer, who made a great stop. Andrew Shaw got called for a trip at the 9:32 mark of the period, putting the Blackhawks up to kill off yet another penalty in this game. They killed it off, and didn’t give the Avs much of an opportunity to pad the stat sheet. Andrew Shaw then drew a penalty at the 13:05 mark of the period as he was tripped in the offensive zone, giving the Blackhawks a powerplay again. Pierre-Eduard Bellemare put the puck right off of the ice and into the stands, giving the Blackhawks a five-on-three penalty. They converted on the first of the two penalties, with Kane wristing the puck right through Grubauer’s five hole, and making the score 7—3 Avalanche.

If you're in the mood for silver linings, Patrick Kane just extended his points streak to 15 games. pic.twitter.com/ZY3PXaES3P

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 1, 2019

The Avs were able to kill off the second penalty without too much effort, not allowing very many shots on goal from the Blackhawks. The game would end with the Blackhawks losing big to the Avalanche by a final of 7—3.

The Blackhawks are back in action on Monday night against the defending Stanley Cup champion St. Louis Blues at the United Center. That game will start at 7:30 pm Central on NHL Network and NBC Sports Chicago.

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The Blackhawks’ lines and pairings were:

Brandon Saad — Jonathan Toews — Alexander Nylander
Alex DeBrincat — Kirby Dach  — Patrick Kane
Dominik Kubalik — David Kampf — Andrew Shaw
Matthew Highmore—Ryan Carpenter — Zack Smith

Duncan Keith — Erik Gustafsson
Calvin de Haan — Brent Seabrook
Olli Maatta — Connor Murphy

Corey Crawford got the nod in net for Chicago, opposite Pavel Francouz for the Avs.

FIRST PERIOD

Did not go well.

Nathan McKinnon tipped a JT Compher shot from the left circle past Crawford at just :59 on the Avs’ first shot of the game. 1-0 Colorado.

And things got worse from there. Less than 3 minutes later, Ryan Graves got his turn also from the left circle, set up by Matt Nieto and McKinnon. 2-0 Avalanche at 3:17. Not long afterward, Andrew Shaw tried to “juice” his teammates by taking on the much larger Graves in a fight, earning kudos from the Hawk radio broadcast team for changing the tone of the game.

Except, he really didn’t.

Sure, Zack Smith cut the lead in half at 9:14 on a Ryan Carpenter feed, beating Francouz from the top of the crease. 2-1 Colorado. 

But after an Erik Gustafsson penalty, Avs defense phenom Cale Makar burned the Hawks from above the circles on the power play, making it 3-1 Avs.

Gustafsson took another late penalty, but the period ended without any further scoring. Shots were actually 10-7 Chicago for the period, but the Avs were basically besting the Hawks with their speed for better scoring chances and lots of odd-man breaks.

SECOND PERIOD

Also, proved basically disastrous for Chicago.

Two quick goals, one at 9:45 by Valeri Nichushkin, and another by Compher at 11:26 made the score 5-1 Colorado.

Patrick Kane salvaged a small token of respect from the period, scoring at 19:56 from Jonathan Toews and Brandon Saad, making the game 5-2. Again, shots were 19-7 Chicago in the period, but Colorado often had the Hawks on their heels regardless.

THIRD PERIOD

The Hawks didn’t have much pushback in the third, especially with Duncan Keith out with a groin injury suffered earlier in the game. The Avs for their part, seemed to have it on cruise control, hence the period ended at the same score it started with. 5-2. Shots in the third were 8-7 Colorado.

THE GOOD

Shaw showed some energy aside from just scrapping with Graves. The Hawks’ fourth line of Smith, Carpenter and Matthew Highmore was arguably their best.

THE BAD

Not a great outing for Crawford, who seemed to have trouble tracking the puck early on. Gustafsson and Keith were both -2.

THE UGLY

The speed difference between the Hawks and the Avs was clear. Further, and because of that difference, the Blackhawks lack of structure and tendency on the part of their defensemen to overcommit up the ice was taken advantage of all game by Colorado—hence the number of odd-man rushes the Avs had.

The Blackhawks and Robin Lehner get a shot at redemption tomorrow night in Colorado. They’ll need their best effort and perhaps a bounce here and there. Colorado made a statement at the United Center today. Tomorrow, we’ll see if the Hawks can answer back. All we have on this one. Comment below.

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The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “JJ” reconvene to discuss the Blackhawks’ recent success and their outstanding goaltending.

• Are the Blackhawks really that good, or is this just a brief spark?
• Adam Boqvist sent down to Rockford.
• Brian Campbell’s “One More Shift”.
• Praise for several Blackhawks players, including Kirby Dach.
• Mike Babcock is fired
• We wrap with the Rinkrat PuckBag segment.

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

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The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “JJ” reconvene with Facebook/Twitter sensation Christian Deme, aka StacheESQ, to discuss the Blackhawks plummeting hopes.

• The Blackhawks are 4-7-3 after losing to the San Jose Sharks, Tuesday night.
• Blackhawks traded Brendan Perlini, recalled Adam Boqvist and re-assigned Dennis Gilbert
• If not for Robin Lehner, could the Blackhawks be winless? Also, thoughts on Crawford
• An extended conversation about just what is wrong with this Blackhawks team and franchise.
• We wrap with the Rinkrat PuckBag segment.

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

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The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” is joined again by staff writers Ray Napientek and Juliana Nikac to talk about the current state of the Blackhawks.

• The Blackhawks are 2-4-2 after losing to the Flyers, Thursday night.
• Kirby Dach recalled from Rockford and played 3 games thus far.
• Connor Murphy injured against the Vegas Golden Knights
• Aleksi Saarela sent to Florida for Ian McCoshen
• Mario Tirabassi gives us another award-winning #Warpigs report.
• Gate, Ray and Juliana discuss the last 6 games and the state of the Blackhawks.
• We also discuss Corey Crawford, Robin Lehner, Brendan Perlini, Brandon Saad, and much more
• We wrap with the Rinkrat PuckBag segment where we discuss #HongKongClassic jerseys.

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

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The-Rink.com co-hosts “Gatekeeper” and “Double J” are joined by staff member and Chicago Steel head writer  Ray Napientek to talk about the first two games of the Blackhawks regular season.

• The Blackhawks lay an egg in Prague.
• Some roster moves happen, including Carl Dahlstrom moving to balmy Winnipeg.
• Mario Tirabassi gives us another award winning #Warpigs report.
• The three old guys talk about the Blackhawks loss to San Jose.
• We also discuss Corey Crawford, Robin Lehner, Brendan Perlini, Erik Gustafsson, Dominik Kubalik and much more
• We wrap with Rinkrat PuckBag segment.

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

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It was clear to most that Stan Bowman was envisioning a future goaltending battery of Lehner and Collin Delia. Many fans and media members, though, continue to hang on to the delusion that Corey Crawford is ageless and unaffected by at least two major concussions. As a result (and to my surprise), there have been mentions of potentially extending Crawford when his contract is up July 1, 2020.

This would prove to be a huge mistake.

I should not have to preface this, but I have been a huge Crawford apologist for years. Ever since he arrived on the scene in 2010–11, I was a vocal leader of the Crawford support group and fought the good fight for No. 50. I felt like he never truly got the recognition he deserved, even after winning two Stanley Cup championships. People would poke holes in his accomplishments because Scott Darling, Ray Emery and Antti Raanta played well behind him. While Raanta has been a good NHL starter, none of those backups were able to go on and accomplish what Crawford has done with the Blackhawks.

This was because Crawford was quite simply a better goalie.

I love the guy, but this is the time to start planning for life without him as the Blackhawks’ primary starting goalie.

No smart general manager commits to a 35-year-old athlete with a history of serious head injuries, especially when they just signed a younger (and better) player. This would just be nostalgia clouding basic common sense. I have seen people attempt to bring up that Tim Thomas had success at a later age. Thomas was an anomaly. You are better off betting that lightning will strike the same tree twice.

Thomas did not even make the Bruins full time until he was 31 years of age. His last truly successful year was in 2011–12 when he was 38 years old. He burned hot and bright for seven seasons, but faded away quickly. Crawford, on the other hand, took over the Blackhawks crease at 25 years of age, which means he has six more seasons of wear and tear on top of his concussion problems.

No goalie in the modern NHL has been re-signed at the age of 35 and had long term success. It just does not happen. While Crawford had a decent season last year, until he was injured again, his statistics were considerably lower than the “top 10” goalie that everyone remembers. He was playing behind a very porous defense, but his even strength save percentage (.913) was the lowest of his career and his overall save percentage (.908) was below league average. It could be argued that he will start a steep decline in ability soon, if he has not begun already.

There is this strange “walking on eggshells” mentality surrounding Crawford that also complicates the situation. We have heard things like “I have not talked to Corey about the goaltending situation,” which is highly unusual. Each of the past two summers, it has been widely reported that no one from the organization, short of Jimmy Waite, has had any contact with Crawford. He just simply disappears. He was a guest at the 2018 fan convention, but that was largely a public relations stunt to keep fans from mass panic since he had not been seen nor heard from for the equivalent of a full-term pregnancy. I cannot put my finger on the issue, specifically, but this is not normal behavior between an organization and one of their alleged leaders.

Seriously, though, who is running this Mickey Mouse operation? Corey Crawford or Stan Bowman?

Shifting gears, Bowman just signed a very successful, considerably younger goalie to a $5 million contract in July and (despite the nonsense the public has been spoon fed) it was not to be Corey Crawford’s backup. Lehner is in Chicago to audition for the starting spot next fall and he deserves every chance to seize the opportunity. Like Crawford, he did not blossom until his mid-20s, which means he is in the prime of his career rather than riding off into the sunset. Lehner proved that he could be an NHL starter in Buffalo, and followed it up by proving he could be a top-tier level netminder with the Islanders last season. He has that Scott Darling “feel good” comeback story and comes with a high pedigree. He is primed and ready for the Chicago spotlight. This is not some unproven fringe AHL kid. This guy has 275 NHL games and 101 wins to his credit. Why is everyone completely dismissing this? The only two possibilities are ignorance or denial.

Also lost in this whole situation is my guy, Collin Delia. There is no question that he is ready to be, at minimum, an NHL backup. He is young, affordable and now long overdue. Is he ready to be a full-time starter? Probably not. He has paid his AHL penance and deserves an honest shot at being and NHL player for a full season, though. If not, then send him somewhere that he can get an honest shot, instead of this shroud of uncertainty. Wasting this kid’s potential because the organization cannot make up their mind is borderline criminal.

In short, unless Robin Lehner spirals into some kind of Anton Forsberg–type downfall, Stan Bowman needs to find a way to extend Lehner before he hits free agency and start preparing everyone for a Lehner-Delia duo to start the 2020–21 season. Corey Crawford has been a warrior and will go down as a Blackhawks legend, but his expiration date has been approaching for quite some time.

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Dach, de Haan and Kurashev dealing with injuries to begin Blackhawks camp

As training camp opened on Friday at the Fifth Third Bank arena, the Blackhawks announced some long awaited injury updates regarding the players at training camp and the players that were hurt in the Traverse City prospect tournament.

Full release here:

MEDICAL UPDATE: Forward Kirby Dach (concussion protocol) is out of the lineup.

Forward Philipp Kurashev (left knee/shoulder contusion) will not practice today.

Defenseman Calvin de Haan (groin strain/shoulder surgery recovery) is expected to be out of the lineup 2-3 weeks.

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) September 13, 2019

Dach is being held out of practice as a result of concussion protocol. He took a big hit in the seventh place game of the rookie tournament on Tuesday and was kept out of action for precautionary purposes.

Kurashev was also injured in the seventh-place game on Tuesday, but his injury is listed as “left knee/shoulder contusion.” The team stated that the 19 year old former 2018 fourth round draft pick will not practice Friday.

Meanwhile, de Haan has been recovering from offseason shoulder surgery and also has a groin strain. He is expected to be out of the lineup 2–3 weeks, but the team hoped to have him in the lineup for the season opener.

The Blackhawks continue training camp this weekend and hos the annual Training Camp Festival on Sunday at the United Center. Following Sunday’s team scrimmage, Chicago opens the preseason as they travel to take on the Washington Capitals.

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Kirby Dach, Chicago’s top draft pick in the 2019 draft, started the scoring burying a shot past Wild goaltender Dereck Baribeau. Defenseman Adam Boqvist assisted on the goal.

Kirby Dach with authority to give the #HawksProspects a 1-0 lead off the rush. Entwistle with the assist. https://t.co/XkEF8QGl6D pic.twitter.com/Ctoq66DYSo

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) September 10, 2019

A few moments later, forward Riley McKay beat Baribeau to extend the Chicago lead to 2–0. McKay would also add a fight to his game resume after he dropped the gloves with forward Drake Pilon. McKay’s goal was assisted by forward Sean Josling.

Josling picks the pocket of a defenseman behind the goal and Riley McKay capitalizes on the loose puck. #HawksProspects pic.twitter.com/6FoiWr932N

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) September 10, 2019

Dach would leave the game after taking an awkward fall into the boards after taking a hit from Wild forward Darian Pilon. Pilon went off to the penalty box for boarding on the play.

The nasty boarding penalty that sent Kirby Dach to the locker room. #HawksProspects pic.twitter.com/AiNSwgm8KL

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) September 10, 2019

Forward MacKenzie Entwistle extended the Chicago lead to 3–0. The power play goal ended the scoring in the first period. Defenseman Nicolas Beaudin assisted on the tally.

Entwistle adds the third, Beaudin centered it off the boards. #Blackhawks flying nowm 3-1. pic.twitter.com/GwtYIp6eAM

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) September 6, 2019

The Blackhawks would add to their injured players when Boqvist, forward Phillipp Kurashev and forward Mikael Hakkarainen all left the ice in the second period of play.

Early in the third period, Chicago extended their lead to 4–0 when forward Tim Soderlund beat Baribeau after a nice give-and-go with forward Michal Teply.

Tim Soderlund with the intercept in his own zone and finishes a give-and-go with Michal Teply to give the #HawksProspects a 4-0 lead early in the third. Second of the tournament for the 2017 fourth rounder. pic.twitter.com/YMMKHaELrW

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) September 10, 2019

Forward Dylan McLaughlin beat Baribeau for Chicago’s fifth goal of the game when he beat the 6-foot-6 goaltender short side. Josling picked up his second assist of the game on the goal.

Cross-ice feed from Sean Josling and Dylan McLaughlin roofs it from a difficult angle for a 5-0 lead. Second assist on the afternoon for free-agent Josling. #HawksProspects pic.twitter.com/eAOUto0gQQ

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) September 10, 2019

The third Chicago goal of the period extended their lead to 6–0 after Teply scored his first of the game. Soderlund assisted on the play.

Soderlund and Teply team up again to take a 6-0 lead. Former does the leg work to find the latter. #HawksProspects pic.twitter.com/mCGYsIxNsj

— Carter Baum (@CarterBaum) September 10, 2019

Minnesota finally figured out Chicago goaltender Alexis Gravel with just over two minutes left to play in the game when forward Connor Dewar scored. Gravel finished the game with 27 saves in the contest.

With the victory, Chicago finished the tournament in seventh place following a record of 2–2. However, the organization will keep a close eye on the four Blackhawks players that left the game early due to suspected injuries. Early reports indicate the injuries are not serious.

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Blackhawks announce 2019 training camp roster

Chicago heads into the 2019–20 season after back to back seasons without postseason hockey at the United Center. The first step in making sure it does not become three years in a row is getting the finer things tuned during training camp and the preseason. Chicago is inviting 55 players to camp this year, highlighted by top rookie prospects Adam Boqvist and Kirby Dach, as well as newcomers Alexander Nylander and Robin Lehner.

Here are the 32 forwards invited to camp:

The Chicago Blackhawks’ forwards for 2019 training camp.

Here are the 17 defensemen and six goalies invited to camp:

The Chicago Blackhawks’ defensemen and goalies for 2019 training camp.

Training camp opens on Friday, Sept. 13 with the annual Training Camp Festival taking place on Sunday, Sept. 15 at the United Center. Chicago opens the preseason schedule the next night on the road against the Washington Capitals.

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Congrats on a wonderful career, Wardo!

Proud we got to be a part of it. pic.twitter.com/AoiXUchvLx

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) August 28, 2019

Ward was drafted by Carolina in the first round of the 2002 entry draft (25th overall). He played for the team from 2005 until 2018, when he signed a one-year free-agent contract to play for the Blackhawks.

His career stared with a whirlwind performance in the 2006 playoffs, as he backstopped the Hurricanes to a surprising Stanley Cup championship, while also collecting the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs’ most valuable player. He had a solid career, but was never able to recapture the magic of that 2006 Canes playoff run. In the 2008–09 season, Ward set single-season Hurricanes records for wins with 39, shutouts with six, winning-streak with nine games and the single-game record for saves with 57. He finished his playing career in Chicago last season with the Blackhawks, putting up a 16–12–4 record, 3.67 goals against average and .897 save percentage.

For his career, Ward played in 701 NHL regular season games, had a record of 334–256–88 and had a 2.74 career goals against average. He only qualified for the playoffs in two of his 14 seasons but amassed a 23–18 record and 2.38 goals against average in 41 games played.

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Early in the first period, Steel forward Robert Mastrosimone went hard into the end boards and struggled to get to his feet. Mastrosimone would attempt another shift before being sent off to the dressing room for the remainder of the contest. The projected first or second round draft pick was a huge loss to the Steel’s game plan.

Sioux Falls scored first when forward Anthony Romano beat Steel goaltender Justin Robbins with his first goal of the playoffs. The power play goal was assisted by forwards Austen Swankler and Ethan Phillips.

Although outshooting the Stampede in the first period 11–4, the Steel entered the first intermission trailing 1–0.

The second period saw the Stampede extend their lead to 3–0 when right wing Blake Bride and center Sam Stevens both found the back of the net. The Stampede outshot the Steel 9–5 in the second period.

Early in the third period, Steel forward Josiah Slavin shortened the Stampede lead 3–1. The goal, assisted by forwards Nick Abruzzese and Gunnarwolfe Fontaine, was the Blackhawks prospect’s fourth goal of the playoffs.

With just under six minutes left in the game, Chicago head coach Greg Moore pulled Robbins in hopes of cutting into the Sioux Falls lead, but goals by Stampede forward Jared Westcott and defenseman Ryan Johnson would seal the deal for Sioux Falls.

Chicago finished the game outshooting Sioux Falls 21–17, but the Stampede would take the Clark Cup Final with the 5–1 victory.

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“We stole a game by tying it late and finding a way in overtime with a real nice play from Mastro (Robert Mastrosimone),” said Chicago forward Nick Abruzzese. “We got into some penalty troubles and it was important to get that game. It’s now a best-of-three series.”

Chicago has taken the five days between games to regroup and sharpen up their overall game in practice.

The team did not skate on Monday after a late night of travel back from Muskegon but will practice each day leading up to Friday’s game with the Lumberjacks.

“It’s been nice to have some time off to recover,” Abruzzese said. “If we stay out of the penalty box we can be very successful as a team. Five-on-five we can play fast through the neutral zone and use that to our advantage.”

With home-ice advantage back in the Steel’s favor, Friday will be a hard-fought contest between two very talented teams. Both Chicago and Muskegon are filled with next level players that have already been drafted or will hear their names called this summer.

Chicago Blackhawks fans can come out and get a look at two of their prospects already in the organization in Muskegon forward Mikael Hakkarainen and Chicago forward Josiah Slavin.

This year’s NHL Draft will most likely bring the names of Abruzzese, Mastrosimone, Egor Afanasyev, Jackson LaCombe and Alex Yakovenko to the forefront on draft night. However, both teams have plenty of unfinished business.

“Putting in the hard work and being recognized is pretty cool, but, at the same time, it does not mean anything for this weekend,” Abruzzese said. “I try to be the best player I can be and help our team win.”

The post The Steel Deal: Chicago heads home with series tied 1–1 for games for Games 3 and 4 appeared first on The Rink.

Chicago 3, Cedar Rapids 1

Forward Christian Sarlo scored his second goal of the series at the 6:07 mark in the first period when he fired a shot past RoughRiders goaltender Blake Pietila. The goal, assisted by forward Cole Quisenberry and defenseman Owen Power, was the first of two goals in just over one minute.

Finnish defenseman Uula Ruikka fired his second goal of the season, extending the Chicago lead to 2–1, with assists from defenseman Luke Reid and forward Jake Schmaltz.

Chicago outshot Cedar Rapids 9–8 heading into the first intermission. After the break, the RoughRiders came out firing, scoring the only goal of the second period when forward Aidan McDonough scored his fourth goal of the season, finally beating Robbins.

Early in the third period, forward Gunnarwolfe Fontaine buried a shot past Pietila, extending the Chicago lead to 3–1. The goal, assisted by defenseman John Spetz and forward Josiah Slavin, was all the Steel needed to hold off the RoughRiders and take a 2–1 series lead heading into game four on Wednesday night.

Chicago 4, Cedar Rapids 1

Chicago’s regular season scoring leader Nick Abruzzese fired his third goal of the playoffs past Pietila with only 10.4 seconds left in the first period to give Chicago the 1–0 lead. The goal was assisted by Mastrosimone and captain Matteo Pietroniro.

Abruzzese scores with just 1⃣1⃣ seconds left in the first! @chicagosteel leads 1-0 #WhosNext pic.twitter.com/2ucQPLiUYW

— USHL (@USHL) April 25, 2019

At the 1:38 mark in the second period, Spetz scored his second goal of the playoffs, giving Chicago their only power play goal of the evening. Forwards Mathieu De St. Phalle and Adam Robbins assisted on the goal.

RoughRiders forward Jack O’Leary cut the Chicago lead to one goal when he fired a shot past Robbins, at the 18:50 mark of the second period, but that would again be the only goal to slip past Robbins, who played outstanding again this evening.

Mastrosimone scored twice in the third period to seal the series victory for Chicago. The Steel outplayed the RoughRiders for much of the game, outshooting Cedar Rapids 26–18 for the game, while killing off all five power plays the RoughRiders were handed.

With the victory, Chicago faces off against the Eastern Conference regular season champion Muskegon Lumberjacks in the best-of-five series in the Eastern Conference final. Chicago won the last two regular season matchups against Muskegon.

Eastern Conference Final Schedule

Game 1: Chicago at Muskegon – Saturday, April 27 at 6:15 p.m. CT
Game 2: Chicago at Muskegon – Sunday, April 28 at 4:15 p.m. CT
Game 3: Muskegon at Chicago – Friday, May 3 at 7:05 p.m. CT
Game 4: Muskegon at Chicago – Saturday, May 4 7:05 p.m. CT (if necessary)
Game 5: Chicago at Muskegon – Monday, May 6 at 6:15 p.m. CT (if necessary)

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