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Sunday, November 30, 2014

5-1 On The Road Trip.

The Hawks were struggling in late October to the beginning of November. THEN, they showed up and played Blackhawks hockey. Even the game they lost in Vancouver, they were in that game until the third period. They looked as if they ran out of gas in that back to back game. The Hawks dominated the Circus Trip and now they head back home playing the hockey we all know and love. Kane-Richards-Versteeg played OUTSTANDING. Versteeg, Richards and Kane have averaged a point a game during the last 10 games. The line should be players of the week. Add Crawford in that mix too. He was utterly ridiculous in most of those games. Hawks are second in the league (by 2 goals) with points allowed. Hawks lead the league in the PK. (sound familiar to Frolik and Kruger a few seasons back?) Raanta didn't play a single game during the road trip and when he was supposed to play, he was sick. Not good, especially for a man trying to earn playing time. The Hawks are ready to enter December in 3rd place in the division and 6th in the playoff hunt. Only 3 points out of first place and the wheels are rolling. They're scoring and what was disappointing earlier in the year,…not being able to get at least a point in the close games, they are now winning and taking control of the 3rd period. Hawks still have not shown any trust in Jeremy Morin and by the looks of it, with Carcillo doing very well, it may be a while before he sees the ice again. In addition, Rundblad wasn't too impressive. Clendening got a few NHL games under his belt and Nordstrom is trying to make a difference on that 4th line.

Saturday, October 4, 2014

Final Cuts, Mandatory Trade

The Hawks finished the preseason and look at a cap hit of slightly over 2.2m that must be dealt with immediately. Here's what we know. 1) The last two games NICK LEDDY has been out of the line-up and with Coach Q's coy answer on looking at things organizationally,… it appears that Nick Leddy may be the odd man out. Usually when there is an imminent trade, that player is off the ice because they do not want to fear injury to that player canceling any trade. 2) Klas Dahlbeck was brought back up from Rockford shortly after being sent back down to Rockford. ($ 613,333 hit). 3) We know that rumors are flying that with the interest of Nick Leddy by certain team(s) that Stan wants to attach Kris Versteeg's contract to that deal. There appears to be no takers. 4) Kris Versteeg's play this preseason looks quite good. He may be back to his 2010 status. So, the Hawks may not be so willing to part with Versteeg. 5) The Hawks, according to Capgeek.com have ALREADY signed up Dan Carcillo to the league minimum of $550,000. Let's work some numbers out. Capgeek.com has currently taken Teravainen off the Hawks roster and has put Daniel Carcillo on the roster…Hawks are still OVER the cap -$1,872,628. IF the Hawks only get rid of Leddy and his @2.7m contract, this allows the Hawks to fill that last position with someone like Klas Dahlbeck. The Hawks have been dying for a "Big man…or a tough guy" and Mashinter appeared to be the guy. However, the Hawks like Daniel Carcillo and he can play on many lines and add that toughness the Hawks need and want. This will give Teravainen time to develop in Rockford.

Friday, June 27, 2014

Kesler, Stastny, etc... Open UFA Market

The Blackhawks have inquired about Ryan Kesler. The price may be too high. It is believed they want either Brandon Saad or Teuvo Teravainen in the trade. It is also believed the Blackhawks are interested in another centerman: Paul Stastny (Col). This may be a good fit,….however the caveat is that he doesn't wish to take a cut from his massive $6+ million contract. Well,…there goes that idea. Rumored: Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews (who share the same agent), are asking for a contract of $12,000,000 yearly. WOW! That would be the two largest contracts in this salary cap era. Do they have the right to that contract? Maybe. But, it would put such a damper on the rest of the team getting any deals, that I believe it would hurt them. I thought 10,000,000 was high,….12 is scary. It isn't that neither Kane nor Toews don't deserve it. The argument that the salary cap will just keep rising is obviously one of the things their agent is relying on,…or Stan Bowman if he agrees to a deal like this. It will be interesting what the hawks do prior to July 1. This time of the year is the most exciting time. This time is the "mold building for the 2014 season". Getting excited yet?

Sunday, June 22, 2014

Will The Hawks Go After Ryan Kesler?

2 years left on his $5,000,000, the former Selke Award winner wishes out of Vancouver and supposedly has 2 teams on his "wish list". Pittsburgh Penguins and our very own Chicago Blackhawks. If the Hawks want this guy, who has been injury prone of late, what will they have to give up in order to get him? It would appear that the likelihood of giving up a Johnny Oduya wouldn't be enough for this deal. They'd want someone like Patrick Sharp or Brent Seabrook…or both. That's a scary thought. Yes, I would agree that adding Kesler would be amazing, but they have to be too careful on who they get and more importantly who they'd have to give up in order to get someone of Ryan Kesler's caliber. Draft picks? Possibly, but since a first round 27th pick isn't the most encouraging pick, that might not be a feasible option. If I wanted Kesler I'd offer : 1st round 2014, 3rd round 2015, Johnny Oduya (need to clear cap space), and the rights to Jeremy Morin. And if I was Vancouver,…I'd turn that deal down. I would think to myself, "I'm not here to HELP Chicago, I'm here to boost up our Roster. I'd want 2 first round picks, Brandon Saad. As you have seen in the past, a 1st round pick isn't necessarily a 'sure thing'. With the loaded draft of 2015, the Hawks may want to keep their 2015 pick. I think the chance of the Hawks agreeing to anything is slim,…this year. The Hawks may wait until late next season when Vancouver knows they better get something or they will get NOTHING. Then the Hawks have a better chance of negotiating. But, as of right now,…I don't think any deal gets done.

Friday, June 20, 2014

What Do The Hawks Do Now?

Well, the Hawks were one goal away from being in the Stanley Cup Finals. I guess, the Hawks can take a little solace in the fact that the Kings won the cup, but…that will not be the case. The Hawks, who are actually favored to win the cup next year, don't find ANY solace in losses. So, what do the Hawks do now? Who will they sign? Who will they let go? Who will they bring up? The Hawks started this process last week by letting go of veteran Michael Handzus, stating they are heading in a different direction. Michael played well the 1 1/2 seasons he was with that Hawks. He played steadily on the penalty kill, and filled in on the 2nd line many times during the season. He was a steady hand at the face off dot, but it is time for him to go. Who will the Hawks put at 2nd line center? Shaw, Saad, and Kane were a pleasant surprise during the playoffs, but is that what the Hawks are going to do? Peter Regin. Well, this is an interesting one. He did play well the last week of the regular season with Bickell and Morin. However, that line will not be assembled in 2014-15. I don't know if the Hawks will sign Regin back up, but with Morin most likely leaving, and Teravainen being a kid, this could happen. Jeremy Morin, was quite often a healthy scratch in the regular season when he was up with the Hawks, and he was so in the playoffs, as well. For some strange reason, he never could bust that line up. I don't know why. I personally LOVED him. In fact, I named one of my cats J-Mo in honor of #11. I am agreeing with many of the experts out there that the Hawks will trade Jeremy Morin on or before the draft so they can get something for him. He is a restricted free agent with a TON of value. Hawks will get a lot of interest in Morin. Ben Smith. I think the Hawks will sign Smitty. In fact, there are preliminary talks right now. He fits the team extremely well. That 4th line of Kruger Smith and Bollig was a solid line. Each of them was productive around the net. That's pretty darn good for a 4th line. Sheldon Brookbank. He was still a healthy scratch most of the season, but he actually played well in the playoffs. He was either used as a defenseman or on the 4th line. However, that being said, I think Brooksy is done with the Hawks. Antti Raanta will get some looks out there and may get that "unrealistic offer" to see if they can drive up the Hawks payroll….remind you of S. J. a few years ago when they gave Hjalmarsson a healthy offer, to in turn steal Niemi away from the Hawks? Expect that to happen again. However, unless the offer is insane, expect him to return. Players in the minors fighting to make the team. Teuvo Teravainen Kevin Hayes Stephen Johns…impressive graduate from Notre Dame. He'd make an interesting addition. (I actually like him). *Jeremy Morin (most likely will be traded,…so, so, so, so, sad.) Adam Clendening (Super skilled player that is in the mold of a Duncan Keith) Mark McNeill (centerman that probably won't make the team) Philip Danault (centerman….ditto ) Joakim Nordstrom…has seen time with the Hawks. Hawks like this kid more than Morin? Really? Wow!!!! Ryan Hartman (less than 40% he makes the team) Drew LeBlanc (less than 15% he makes the team) Alex Broadhurst (Slim chance) Garret Ross (Slim chance) Terry Broadhurst (Slim chance) Klas Dahlbeck (another strong defensman. I say,…less than 30% he makes the team.) David Rundblad: He may take over Brooksy's spot as the fill in. He may actually make the top 7. He has skill or the Hawks wouldn't have given Phoenix a 2nd rounder for his rights. I think he plays around 40 games this next year. Will that Hawks make a splash and trade someone? Could, but I don't expect it. Who is tradable? Sharp? Seabrook? Oduya? Leddy? Who is untraceable? Toews, Kane, Hossa (who wants that contract?), Keith, Saad. In order for the Hawks to trade either Seabrook or Sharp, that deal would have to be really good. Both those players have been staples in that lineup for 9+ years. Sharp is an alternate captain, and Seabrook has been so on occasions when one of their captains has been injured. So, don't expect them to be traded. It would have to be a block buster of a deal for that to occur. Who will the Hawks be picking up on day 1 of the draft? wil it be Nick Schmaltz the centerman out of Green Bay (USHL)? It appears a few of the experts think so. The general consensus is the Hawks will go after a centerman. But, could the Hawks go after a defensman. When they chose Dylan Olsen, he turned out being traded 3 yrs later to Florida for a little more than a bag of hockey pucks. We shall see. I do believe the Hawks will go after a centerman, but will it be Nick Schmaltz? Trade rumors for Joe Thornton or other strong NHL experienced centerman is slim to NONE. The cap is almost filled, and these players aren't going to continue eating salary opportunities to play for the Hawks. In addition, teams aren't going to continue eating half of the player's salaries (per Versteeg), in order to allow the Hawks to stockpile players for half the salary.

Monday, June 2, 2014

Hawks vs. Los Angeles…Yes, It's Game 7 Folks!

No team has played more games than the Blackhawks the past year. In addition, the Hawks had to send 10 of their players to the Olympics in Sochi this year. I remember stating, that if the Hawks didn't contend for the Presidents Trophy, that it wasn't going to be a big deal. What they had to do was use their energy wisely. Well, THIS is what it's all come down to. Game 7, after the Hawks trailed in the series 3-1. L.A. wasn't giving an inch, and we don't expect any difference tonight. In fact, Justin Williams has 6 goals in game 7. He's the game 7 killer. In addition, the Kings won BIG against both S.J. and Anaheim in game 7. So, the Hawks have to play within themselves tonight to not be thrown out of their own building.

Saad-Shaw-Kane line (nameless line…should be that way unless they win tonight), has been the key difference the past two games. L.A. has already stated they will bump and grind Kane and not allow him time and space. What Saad and Shaw will have to do to counter that will be to "get open" and force their defense off of Kane. This will allow Kane to pass to either open guy if they decide to crowd him.

Bickell-Toews-Hossa, has to step up a bit. Hossa has at times appeared "slow" to the puck, and Bickell and Toews have had turnovers due to "running around and chasing". This line needs to be better.

Sharp-Kruger-Smith, had a goal the last two games. Both were because of Ben Smith playing very aggressively and forcing his way to the net. This needs to continue.

Bollig-Handzus(Or whomever they use)-Brookbank/Versteeg: (looks like Versteeg is playing…just saw him on the bench). This line will probably only see about 6-8 minutes of total ice time. You'll see a lot of double shifting by Kane and Handzus will most likely be the center man and the Hawks tightening up the lines is to produce more offense.

The defensemen: They have had their ups and downs in this series. Games 2-4 they looked absolutely awful. In game 6 Seabrook still was slow to the puck that created the first L.A. goal by D. King. He needs to be better. Leddy's eyes have to be more focused when he is playing today. Stopping the silly turn overs. Keith has to continue being that offensive blue line presence.

Crawford: Has to try and stay focused even if he gets down today. Or…especially if he get's up in the game. Sometimes, the Hawks get lackadaisical and stop skating once they score. This cannot happen or they'll be down faster than they can blink.

Stay out of the box. L.A.'s power play is the best the Hawks have seen throughout the playoffs.  If the Hawks get on the P.P., they need to attack the net rather than dump and chase.

Lastly…do whatever the hell it takes to win. This may mean getting a puck to the face (remember Keith 4 years ago?), or diving after pucks. Don't be over aggressive to cause any issues.


Friday, May 30, 2014

3rd Period Play by Play. Do The Hawks Have What It Takes?

As the 3rd period of Game 5 is ready to begin, I see the same habit the repeating. Crawford giving up 4 or more goals, and Sharp is nowhere to be found. The defense was mediocre, but if you can't have a goaltender stop shots in the playoffs, then you'll be on your heals the entire game.

The Hawks in 3 of the 4 games have shown up…for ONE period. Then, they have lost the game. I really have a difficult time seeing L.A. losing this game due to the Hawks ability to control the play. Saad and Kane have shown up to this game, but silly turnovers, inability to win the face-offs, this game looks bad. Well,……here starts the 3rd period. Let us see what goes on.

20:00  L.A. is again in control of the puck.
Finally, the Hawks get control at 19:11. But, gave it back  up at the 19:00 mark. Hawks re-collect it and move up the ice.

WOE………..Ben Smith, again showing he deserves a contract. 18:43 Saad puts it on net and Benny crashes the net picks up the rebound and scores. 4-4 boys…..YES!!!

17:43 Hawks couldn't do anything with a 3 on 2. Handzus was hand tied. Couldn't release the puck.
17:00 L.A. in control. Hawks dump it in.
Stolen by Saad at 16:40 rushed the net  shot on goal.  Shaw had a nice shot on goal. The real goaltender makes a nice save (Quick),...Still in the Offensive zone until 16:19.
Saad rushes again at 16:00 mark. Saad is playing like an animal.
15:35 Crawford makes a save, but gave up a juicy rebound.
Back in the offensive zone. 15:30 until 15:05….totally the Blackhawks. Sharp actually tried making something happen. Holy crap. Welcome to the playoffs Sharpie.

14:53 L.A. get us and shoots on net. but Hawks turn it into an offensive push. No goal, but a shot on goal.
13:55 due to a wonderful Saad push up the ice, gives it to Kane. Still in the zone.. 13:34 Kane and Saad control puck.
13:20 and at 13:09 two separate rushes L.A. gets a good shot on goal. Literally back and forth with major rushes. L.A. is NOT giving an inch. They are offensively pushing the pace as well.
Saad, Shaw and Kane are killing it out there.  It has been heavy action both sides. 12:15

11:38 L.A. penalty. Delay of game. Who is on the ice? Shaw, Saad and Kane.

11:10 Daughty with a shot short handed. Crawford actually made a stop. Holy crap.
The rush was due to Kane rushing up 1 on 3 and getting tossed off the puck.

10:35 Saad crashes the net and gets goalie interference. He was being aggressive, lost his balance. Bye bye power play. How sad.

So, there will be a 1:03 power play for L.A. afterward.

Hawks are controlling the puck with the 4 on 4 until 20 seconds. Now L.A. has the puck. Puck in net with :09 left on 4 on 4. Faceoff in Chicago's end. (we need to win a face off here…let's see if the Hawks can will themselves a face-off win).

Hawks win it. 51 seconds L.A. brings up the puck from their own end.
Hawks playing defensively …Keith clears the puck with 15 seconds left. L.A. comes back in with  only 1 second left.
8:20 Hawks get control. Line change.
7:55 2on2 L.A. rush. Toews gets control at 7:40.
Martinez control at 7:15
Hawks control from defensive zone at 7 minutes remaining.
Neutral zone

6:13 Keith in defensive zone. Pushes it out of the zone.
6:01 Tifoli gets over the blue line…stopped... and again at 5:51. Hawks playing shut down at the blue line.
This "that's 70's line" is so freakin' dangerous. Carter-Tifoli-Pearson.
L.A. still controlling the face-offs. Shots are very close. May still be even.

L.A. wants to end it here. Hawks looking to find some life somewhere.

Jake Muzzin review of his physical play on Toews, Kane and Kruger…yeah he's been a man amongst boys.

5:25 Blackhawks ….icing. (Shaw's line out)
4:49 Toews line out.

4:19 Mitchell sent one in front of Crawford. Missed.

4:01 still in the Hawks zone
3:52 Bickell shot one from the point…wide
3:33 in neutral zone. L.A. control
3:19 L.A. delayed penalty.  3:11 tripping J. Stoll trips Oduya
Blackhawks Power Play at 3:11 to go. LET'S GO HAWKS (goddammit!!!!)

3:03 Shawk on the ice against the boards. tweaked the leg it appears. Skates off. but he is definitely grimacing.

He doesn't want to go to the locker room. Good Job Shawzy…That shows heart to your team.

3:00 Hawks control in their own end.

2:38 Hawks can't hold the puck in.
2:28 Hawks bring it back in.
Kane with the Puck at 2:15
2:07 Bickell gets two shots on goal. First was a re-direct, second was a rebound. Quick stops both.

1:58 Sharp shoots…of course he gets nothing.
Hawks last rush with 1:35 left in the game.
1:20 out of play. Sharp shot a NICE shot, but it went out off of Quicks head. But, ref's didn't see. So, face-off outside the zone. PP didn't produce.

1:02 icing by Rozsival. Faceoff to the right of Crawford
Hawks control with 35 then like dumb asses ice the puck (Sharp). 31.8 seconds left.
Hjalmarsson dives with 7 seconds left to prevent a puck from going in.

OVERTIME.
Wow…..where to begin. It was constant action both sides. It was one of the most exciting games (and stressful to watch as a Hawks fan) that I've seen since the Detroit series last year. No one scored. However, Crawford actually showed up to play….that was nice to see.

DOUBLE OVERTIME.
With Shaw not centering the line, Handzus replaces Shaw. Only 2 minutes in. Saad to a center rushing Handzus who flips a backhand over Quick. SCORE. Hawks certainly didn't make it easy. That is for certain. But, what I wanted to see what heart…and that was certainly there. Next game is in L.A. Friday night.

One game at a time,…one period at a time,…one shift at a time. It literally has to be broken down to that in order for the Hawks to fight off this L.A. team.










Friday, May 9, 2014

Q SHAKES UP The Lines In A BIG WAY

After a lackadaisical effort from pretty much the whole team, Quenneville's line shake up is HUGE> 1st line…ready for this one? Bickell - Toews - Smith 2nd line (Kruger has played with a lot of energy, but I'm not crazy about this line. I wonder how long Q will stay with line configuration? ) Saad - Kruger - Kane 3rd line…this is normally the 2nd line (This is the line he should have shaken up. Sharp has simply NOT produced in the playoffs. He needs to get his head out of his backside). Sharp - Handzus - Hossa 4th line Bollig - Nordstrom - Morin(yay!) Shaw injured again. No Versteeg. I personally don't like seeing Steeger out of the line-up over a rookie who didn't play the entire season in the NHL (I'm referring to Nordstrom, here). However, Coach Q must have a reason why he prefers Nordy over Steeger. Energy level? Performance level? Nick Leddy was a healthy scratch for the first time in his career. He was pissed off about it. Good. I expect him to bring a NEW level of energy to his game. Hawks only started to play hard after they were down 2-0. It was that sense of desperation, but it was too late.

Monday, May 5, 2014

Bickell Continues Strong Play. Saad Nets 2 in 4-1 Win Game 2 vs Wild

Just like game 1, the Hawks took a 2-0 lead into the 3rd period. Of course, being a fan of hockey and noticing SOOOO many last minute comebacks, you realize a 2-0 lead isn't safe. ESPECIALLY when the Wild score 2 minutes into the 3rd period. Bryan Bickell was again was a +3, 1 G , 2A and he nearly netted 2. Just about a minute prior to the game CLINCHING goal,(not the game winner…that honor was Saad's, he just missed a goal (which he actually thought he made) by rubbing a puck along the top post that slid along the post giving it the appearance it found the net…but, sadly it didn't. The next time down, he was on the left side of the Hossa feed and wrested it top left to seal the deal. Saad later would race down to prevent icing and out-sped his guy and found an empty netter to make the score look a bit more lopsided than it real was. Here is a shocker….preparing you so take a deep breath…..let it out……ready? okay…MORIN started over Bollig. OMG!!! Freakin' finally. I've been waiting for this all series long. He deserved it. He played well, although he was a -1 on the scoresheet, he showed good energy. He had 2 hits on his playoff debut. Good job J-Mo!!! The only person that looked out of place? Nick Leddy. And coach made sure that Leddy knew it. He benched him in the 3rd period. (total ice time 13:48). Don't be surprised if Coach Q puts in Brookbank,….then again, don't be surprised if he doesn't do a damned thing, either. THREE STARS OF THE GAME Bryan Bickell 1ST BRYAN BICKELL - LW G: 1 Shots: 2 A: 2 Hits: 2 PTS: 3 PIM: 0 +/-: 3 TOI: 16:30 Chicago Blackhawks Marian Hossa 2ND MARIAN HOSSA - RW G: 0 Shots: 1 A: 3 Hits: 1 PTS: 3 PIM: 0 +/-: 4 TOI: 18:39 Chicago Blackhawks Brandon Saad 3RD BRANDON SAAD - LW G: 2 Shots: 2 A: 0 Hits: 2 PTS: 2 PIM: 0 +/-: 2 TOI: 16:21 Chicago Blackhawks

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Hawks Win 4th In A Row to Take Round 1 Against Blues

I'll be honest, that 2nd period I got a little scared. 17 pelted shots on Corey and only 3 for the Hawks. Believe it or not, what settled me down as a fan was this uncanny story that the Blues 2014 series matched the 2013 series against L.A. Knowing last year's game 6 they only scored 1 goal, settled me down….just a little bit. As the Hawks started the 3rd period on the PP, I was really only expecting 1 goal….well, that was last years score (L.A. 2 -1 St. Louis). So, when Jonny poured in the PP goal in the first minute of the third, I thought the game could be over for St. Louis. What scared me was when Sharpie scored less than 2 minutes later. Uh Oh,…last years score was 2-1 and the Hawks just posted 3. And we already know that St. Louis can come back from 2 goals. What was surprising to me, was Ken Hitchcock said that Sharpies goal popped the balloon and the air went out on their bench. Yes, it appeared that way on the ice too. The Blues were not playing puck control, as the Hawks were putting pucks deep and allowing St. Louis to make mistakes at or around the Hawks Blue line. When Shaw scored on a blast off the stick of Duncan Keith, I felt better. Then all Hawks fans were able to breathe as Shaw and Keith on a 2-1 scored as Shaw feed Keith (who didn't handle it too well but batted it out mid air after his mishandle), who killed the spirits of St.Louis. That was the 1 and only time that the Blues and Hawks were ever above a 2 goal spread. This series literally could have gone either way. 4 of the games went into overtime. Coach Q wanted to put the praise on Corey and the PK unit. I would 100% agree. 2-29 on the PP for St. Louis who had been one of the best PP units in the league. That is absolutely an astounding number. Joakim Nordstrom made his NHL playoff debut,…NOT Jeremy Morin. Coach Q rarely used either player and used that 4th line mostly for the 4th period. Smith, on the other hand played 2nd line center and played on the 4th line. Maybe something that had to do with that was the 2nd period barrage of penalties the Hawks took which meant that Handzus was out on that ice getting pelted with pucks. It's hard to say what is going on in Quenneville's mind, but that could have something to do with it. Players that were noticeably good: Keith, Smith, Handzus, Seabrook, Hjalmarsson, Kane, Toews and of course…Crawford. Players that were noticeably NOT good: Saad, Sharp, Oduya. (Although, Sharp scored the 3rd goal of this game, it was his first of the series. More importantly, what I noticed was his turn overs. He and Hossa were high in that department). Saad, wasn't horrible, he just didn't have that extra effort that I was looking for. Oduya,…well, I have been on his case all year. He blocks shots, defends well,…guess I'm looking for a play off effort instead of a regular season effort. Less brain-farting would be nice. Shaw had his moments of brilliance, then he had moments of brain farts. Well, that's Shaw. Because of the divisional playoff system this year, the Hawks know their opponent will either be Colorado or Minnesota. Colorado is playing game 6 in Minnesota today. It would be nice to see Minnesota carry this series into a 7th game, to give the Hawks a few more days rest. (Coach gave them 2 days rest). I don't care either way which team plays the Hawks. Both are tough, but Colorado would have home ice advantage on the Hawks. The Hawks have played miserably there, but again the playoffs is a different animal…ask St. Louis.

Monday, April 21, 2014

Seabrook Get's 3 Games. Hawks Search For Soul

This is not the time to lose one of your leaders. The Hawks did JUST that. Brent Seabrook has received a 3 game "well justified" suspension for a vicious hit on David Backes. The Hawks aren't losing 0-2 because of that. They are down 2 games to nothing because they are doing what they did ALL YEAR: blow LATE 3rd PERIOD GOALS. The Hawks gave up a goal in each game with less than 2 minutes to play. Not all Corey Crawford's fault, but he surely isn't playing on all cylinders. Other players that I have seen that aren't "carrying their weight" include: Marian Hossa, Patrick Sharp and Patrick Kane. The Hawks do very well when they play "angry". I don't know what they have to do to get by St. Louis, but they certainly are facing a team that is going to be as good a matchup as they will face (even if they win this series). IF the Hawks win this series…and go on to win the cup, the teams they may have to face could look like this….St.Louis > Colorado > Anaheim or San Jose > Boston or Pittsburgh. WOW!!! This would certainly be one of their greatest championships if they could win this. Drawing off the BLOOD SWEAT and TEARS from their captain Jonathan Toews along with the energy from their other leaders WILL definitely have to be needed in order to win this series. Game 3 is in less than 12 hours and the NUMBER ONE person that has to get his act together is COREY CRAWFORD> He must play his best. I haven't seen that yet. Now,…..the line match ups with Kane on the 3rd line….was a complete flop. Most of the goals have been scored by defensemen this series. The idea of "spreading the wealth" actually THINNED it out. Why not have this lineup? Versteeg - Toews - Kane Sharp- Shaw - Hossa Bickell - Smith - MORIN Saad - Handzus - Kruger That is loading up on ALL 4 lines. Bickell and Morin have already proven that they play well together. Handzus has proven he is worthy of playoff time. 3 minutes of ice time for Bollig proves he isn't cutting it in the playoffs. PUT MORIN IN!!!! He's an amazing athlete. Anyway, whatever the Hawks decide to do I am with my team. I just would like to see the offense take off a bit more. I don't think Q is using his offensive power to it's best ability.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Preparing For St. Louis

Hawks have decided to have "offensive" threats on every line. With Toews and Kane returning near or at 100%, the team is near fully rested. Coach Q has decided on an unusual line pairing for the first game. Saad- Toews- Versteeg No matter whom you pair up with Tazer he'll be fine. Stegger and Saad have been playing well off each other, and both show grit. This line is an unusual pairing, but it can work. Sharp- Handzus- Hossa This line isn't so far fetched. In fact, we've seen this line match-up throughout the year. Bickell- Shaw- Kane Putting Kaner on the third line to spark up what could be a REALLY interesting line up, is the most intriguing line configuration of all. I think this line could be REALLY dangerous. We shall see. Bollig- Kruger- Smith the 4th line that has been the 4th line for most of the year is a stable line that produces scorers from all three guys. The "shut down line". Morin will sit, but trust me, if Versteeg or Saad don't hold up their end of the bargain, or if Handzus rests with Smith taking that center spot, expect to Morin play in this first round. This is what the Hawks play for. Let's see what they can do in 2014.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Last 3 GAMES… What to Expect, Not Expect and What Surprises May Be In Store.

Well, I've been away for over 2 weeks. Anything happen? OMG yes. Hawks flopped right out of home ice advantage by tanking 3 in a row and 4 of 5 the end of March. Hawks lose Toews for the remainder of the regular season, and the Hawks now win 3 in April with their back ups. What? Is this Narnia? Okay…let's review. First of all, I told you this was going to be an interesting season for the Hawks, and to NOT expect them to win their conference or division. They had to figure out a way to balance their lineup and get people rested for the playoffs. First off, let's be frank here,…Hawks brass isn't going to come out and tell anyone they're resting players. Why should they? But let's look a the obvious. Saad gets a few days break and rests a game. He played Friday, rested the last game and their next game isn't until Wednesday… Rest, that's all it is. No need to panic folks. He isn't in Q's doghouse. It's a nice 5 day rest. Oduya rests a few games here lately. Rozsival rests: He needs time to rest and be prepared for the playoffs. He's an important piece of that 3rd line D-core. Bickell rested up and there was no hurry to rush him back (Until Toews went down). As you see, he's perfectly fine. Toews: Got banged up a bit. If it was the playoffs, he would have been in that next game. Just resting and healing. Kane: This is the most mysterious one to me. His injury happened to be "perfect" timing for Teravainen to enter the lineup. Kane bangs the knee and "presto" Teravainen and a host of others are able to come and play for the Hawks while Kane rests. To clarify, I'm not saying the injury is fake,… but what I am saying is it was extremely perfect timing. Nothing is ever that perfect…is it? Hossa: He has rested. He is ready to go. The ones that haven't rested are Sharp, Keith, Seabrook, Hjalmarsson, Shaw, Smith, Bollig, Kruger. The Hawks are so close to being permanently placed in the 5th seed. If by tonight or tomorrow they are guaranteed the 5th seed, expect the others to get some rest, also. PERFECT TIMING: The Hawks have had that a few times this year. Remember when Khabibulin went down with a "mysterious groin" injury during the middle of the game? Bamm!!!! out he goes. He's never been back. They couldn't to let him go (cap hit), and they wanted to put Antti Raanta in his spot, so the groin injury wasn't enough. So,what do the Hawks do? They kept digging, found an injury that allowed him to sit the rest of the season. It wasn't even related to the groin injury, but the Hawks did NOT want Khabibulin back in the lineup. Here's your $2 million…shut the f*ck up, and stay quiet about it. DO IT FOR THE TEAM. Hawks wanted to get a look at Teravainen and the only conceivable way was for one of their top 6 forwards to go down with an LTIR. BAMM!!!! The very next day, Kaner gets a knee onto a player and has a strained MCL. (He may have tweaked it, he may not have). But, it's amazing how that how that happened. Suddenly the Red Sea parts and in walks Teravainen. Coincidence? Hawks must have a lucky coin in their pocket, eh? Hehehehehehe. This is called manipulating the cap. Every team does it,…it's just the Hawks are supremely good at covering it up. WHAT TO EXPECT? 1) Expect Toews and Kane to return without a hitch. 2) Expect to see Morin and Regin fighting for that playoff roster spot. Right now, the Bickell-Regin-Morin 3rd line has been the hottest line the past 3 games and J-Mo is fighting for his playoff roster spot (more than the aforementioned). Bickell's roster spot is secure, but Regin is also fighting for the top 20 ice playing spots. 3) Don't expect Teravainen to make the top 20 roster spots in the playoffs. I think he may or may not play the rest of the season, but I don't think he will crack the top twenty. Not at all. Surprises? Right now, I'd have to say I'm thinking Peter Regin and Jeremy Morin may be the surprises that could (not will,…but could) make the top 20 playoff roster spots. The last 3 games they will need to continue that trend, if they wish to make a run for the roster spot.

Saturday, March 29, 2014

Bickell, Teravainen Sit. Matt Carey Slated In.

Well, as expected. I knew Teuvo Teravainen wouldn't play 10 games. Why pay him his full contract, when all he had to do was only play 9…not 10. In comes Matt Carey. Hawks signed him last week out of St. Lawrence University.

Hawks are trying like heck to rest their players.
Bickell: 5 games.
Saad: He just came back after missing nearly 2 weeks.
Kane: out for 3 weeks. Knee injury…how quaint and timely, don't you agree? This allowed the Hawks much leverage.
Hossa: He recently returned after 3 weeks.
Rozsival: he's been getting his rest.
Crawford: He won't play all the remaining games.

Hawks are trying to find this nice mix to get ready for the playoffs. They've conceded 1st, 2nd and 3rd seeds. It is almost certain that they will play Colorado in the first round. Now it comes to which team gets home ice.

Resting other important pieces:
Sharp, Toews, Seabrook and Keith…how will this happen?



Thursday, March 27, 2014

Teuvo...He's a HIT !

TEUVO TERAVAINEN

I don't think I've seen this much anticipation for a player in a long time. There was some anticipation to see Brandon Pirri, and Jeremy Morin. There was some anticipation to see Drew LeBlanc. The most anticipation I've seen in the past few years had to be the arrival of Antti Raanta. However, the anticipation of 19 year old, 2012 18th overall pick Teuvo (TAY-woe Taer-a-VI-nen) was NUTS!. The first thing we wanted to know when he arrived was, "How do we pronounce your name?"......He gladly told us. He also told us that NOBODY pronounces it correctly. Teevo, Tavo, Tuvo... well not any longer. He will be a household name in Chicago for a long time.

His first game against Dallas was wonderful, and he didn't register a single point. What he did show was his beautifully skilled hands, his ability to see the ice, and his faceoff prowess. He was 7/7 from the dot. Awesome.

Teuvo Teravainen entering the ice at the UC for his 1st official NHL game



The line he was put on: SAAD - TERAVAINEN -SMITH was a wonderful line.  (Guess this puts Morin back in the hot seat again. Just as I was enjoying the "Rockford Files" Line Saad/Smith/Morin: then Teuvo changes that theme.) 3 quick guys. Saad and Smith with a little grit to their game, and all they need is a magic man at center.

He does look like the second line center the Hawks have been dying to have for years and years. We shall see. In the meantime, the Hawks can use Handzus and/or Regin or even Shaw at center.

So, with Teravainen coming in, what could be the possible OFFENSIVE line matchups?

Scenario# 1;
Sometimes Q likes to pair Tazer and Kaner.

Versteeg/Bickell - Toews - Kane
Sharp - Shaw - Hossa
Saad - Teravainen -Smith
Bollig -  Kruger - Bickell/Versteeg

Scratches: Morin,  Handzus, Regin
This loads up 3 offensive lines but hampers the 4th line a bit.



Scenario #2: This is a strong playoff situation. It loads everyline and keeps the 4th line together which has been successful all year long.

Saad - Toews - Kane
Sharp - Teravainen - Hossa
Bickell - Shaw - Versteeg
Bollig - Kruger - Smith

Scratches: Morin, Handzus, Regin


Scenario #3: You may also see a rotation of Kane and Hossa.
Saad - Toews - Hossa
Sharp - Teravainen - Kane

Handzus is "stable" he may get playing time.I only see Bickell right now as the weak link.  Bickell MUST produce or we get a total mix up of lines once again.




Friday, March 21, 2014

MORNING SKATE @ Carolina 21-March-2014

* Morin looks like he's paired with Ben Smith…can't see who else (Bollig is my guess).

* Teravainen isn't on the ice at 10:30am…Don't think he's playing…Just as I suspected.

* Saad was on the ice before morning skate.

* I don't see Saad on for morning skate.

* Teravainen IS DRESSED  ( #86) at 10:42 and on the ice. Yay!!!

* Sharp and Hossa are paired in drills.

* Kruger and Bollig paired in drills

* Rundblad is on the ice (10:47).

* Practicing face off drills with Shaw and Toews (nice to see) (10:50)

* Smith and Regin practicing face offs as well.

* Bickell isn't on the ice. He is dinged up.

* Coach Q says Teravainen isn't playing tonight. He has every intention of playing Teuvo in the near future. Q says "Teravainen is a special player"…comparing him to Kane.

* Saad may be out, as well.



Scott Powers @espnchipowers
Bowman said the 10-game entry-level slide wouldn't be a factor in how much Teravainen plays this season..sure it won't….OF COURSE IT IS!!!!


Sco @thasoapbox
😪 RT @MarkLazerus: Q tells @LukeStuckmeyer that Teravainen won’t play tonight. Neither will Saad, Bickell, Rozsival and Kane. #Blackhawks…well, there you go.  


Chris Kuc @chriskuc
Bryan Bickell and Michal Rozsival also not on the ice for #Blackhawks' morning skate. Jeremy Morin is skating.Bicksy may sit tonight. Q says he's banged up.



Hawks Recall Morin and Teravainen Stays with Hawks


It was pretty apparent to me what the Hawks were trying to accomplish. However, they needed that little LTIR miracle…and wouldn't you know it, a day after I posted that the Hawks would find that miracle….they certainly did. Besides fitting Teravainen under the cap, they brought up Jeremy Morin. Smart, smart, smart move. This little move may allow the Hawks to re-sign Morin without him having a bad taste in his mouth. ESPECIALLY if they can repeat as champions.

***Side NOTE: IF the Hawks don't play Teravainen tonight…it's strictly due to numbers. They are trying to fit everything under the cap. Remember, if he plays tonight, they OWE Teravainen $925,000. There are 12 games remaining. The rules stipulate that if he plays 10 or more games he MUST be paid in full. So, don't be surprised if he sits the next 3 games. I certainly would do that. I'd just say that he needs to get used to the system, and we're trying to fit him in,…blah blah blah blah…you know…all the politically correct answers. When in actuality, it's strictly about the numbers.

Hawks are playing the CAP like a chess master. Very interesting to watch this whole thing develop.


Craig Custance @craigcustance
Blackhawks announce that they've recalled the talented Teuvo Teravainen. He'll wear No. 86. Nice to have that option available w/Kane out.


Chicago Blackhawks @nhlblackhawks
The #Blackhawks have recalled Jeremy Morin and Teuvo Teravainen; Patrick Kane has been put on long-term injury. bit.ly/1etKrZD


Pierre LeBrun @real_espnlebrun
Blackhawks announce they've called up prized Finnish prospect Teuvo Teravainen (as well as Jeremy Morin).


Any questions?


Thursday, March 20, 2014

Teravainen Miracle: Kane Out 2+ Weeks (preliminary assessment)

In the last blog, I pointed out the Hawks needed to get someone out of the lineup in order for him to go under the cap.
1) Kane gets injured: out 2+ weeks:  This will put him on the IR,...therefore this NOW becomes an easy transition for Teuvo Teravainen to play for the Hawks. How easy was that? It's almost as if the Hawks are blessed.

Let's go over some of those lovely breaks.

1) Hawks sign Nikolai Khabibulin to a 1 year contract. He turns out to be a complete bust. He goes down, and the Hawks put in Raanta.

2) Nikolai Khabibulin would put the Hawks in a pinch if he comes back to the team. So, the Hawks find a necessary surgery that he passed on when he signed with the Hawks. This surgery would put Nikolai on permanent LTIR for the remainder of the year. DONE DEAL. Keep him off the roster.

3) Teuvo Teravainen is coming in from Finland and the Hawks have ZERO room for him. The Hawks would have had to make some tough decisions when he got to Chicago this weekend.

         i) He can't play 10 games without being charged a full year's salary. Kane makes $6.3m yearly. Is this
            enough for him to play the rest of the year? Maybe not. So, he has to wait a few more games. But,   he definitely can make the team now.

        ii) Interesting how the "preliminary report" is 2 weeks. That is about how much time they need. Maybe  they need 3 weeks. Watch out for Kane to be put on IR rather than DTD. It is the only way for                     Teravainen to make the roster.
****update: Kane is out for 3-5 weeks.

**** update:Vicctoria Matiash of ESPN reports (pretty much what I stated)…

...Then there's the pending arrival of the club's top prospect. For a couple of weeks now, the Blackhawks faithful have been abuzz about Teuvo Teravainen and how and where he would fit in once landed in North America (his SM-Liiga club, Jokerit, just recently bowed out of the playoffs). Maybe Kane's injury opens the door for NHL entry a little earlier than anticipated. If the Hawks place Kane on injured reserve, they'll clear enough cap space to accommodate Teravainen's $925,000 big-league salary….


There he goes to the big lights. Cant wait to see him play in the big league cya buddy! Break a leg!

Wednesday, March 19, 2014

How To Get Teravainen On The Hawks With Cap Issues

Well, we know for certain that the Hawks are unable to add Teravainen with 10 or more games or he gets paid for a full season and that would put the Hawks over the cap. So, 9 games or less is the key.

What else is a key, is that the Hawks will need to find a way to get him on the roster before the end of the season. Because once the season starts, cap space doesn't come into play.

If that's the case, then look out for the mysterious injury that would get Teravainen on the roster easily.
What?....If a player goes down and is out for 15 days, DL15, that would allow Teravainen to slide in under the cap space,...that injured player gets pulled from the cap room,...thereby allowing Teravainen to slide on to the roster without making room. NICE!!!  Therefore, Regin and Rundblad would be safe. There is one injured player right now, but it's lowly paid Brandon Saad. I am not sure with only $55,000 remaining on the cap, if Saad's salary would cover it.
Saad @ $764,167 cap hit.
Teravainen's hit is at $925,000 (full year salary). With 9 games remaining, what is the cap hit for Teravainen if he only plays 9 games? Is it around $150,000?  I don't think Saad's salary would cover it. I'm sure the brass is trying to figure out everything right now. PLUS,...they need Saad on the ice. He's too important a player.

All the defensemen except for Rundblad make more than Teravainen....(Brookbank, Leddy, Rozsival could be substitutes).
Offensively, Michal Handzus, also a center, could be that replacement. He makes a cool mil ($1,000,000 for those without street cred), and that would cover the cap (I think...again, I am still learning the cap rules, and I will write changes if I find out otherwise...but, I do think I have a good hold of it).
Or,...anyone who goes down with an injury from now until the end of the season that makes more than Teuvo should be able to slide Teuvo right in to the roster.

With the Hawks just recently trading for Regin and Rundblad, and giving up valuable picks for both of them, I don't know if either one of them is able to slide into Rockford without having to clear waivers first. Besides, Regin's hit is at $375k whereas Rundblad's hit is $785k. Looks to me like Regin's here to stay irregardless,... and I don't think the Hawks would have the balls to put Rundblad on waivers (I believe he would have to clear waivers to go down)...

So,...if I have a crystal ball, I say that the Hawks will have a mysterious injury with one of their athletes in the next game or two. Let's see if I'm right..........The reason I say that is that appears to be the easiest way to get him onto the roster.


Teravainen and Cap rules

In order for the Hawks to NOT have to pay Teuvo Teravainen a full year's salary, it must be 9 or less games. The Hawks after today will have 13 games left in the season. The reason this is important, is because the Hawks are fully maxed out when it comes to cap space. So, if Teravainen does join the team, it won't be until next week. If Teravainen was to play 9 games in a row, that would mean his first game would be against Boston @Boston.  He could join the Hawks after the Dallas game on the 25th.

I am not so certain if he can practice with the Hawks before then without being dinged against the cap. I will certainly try to find out. Nevertheless, do expect to see Teuvo before the end of this month.

Monday, March 17, 2014

Tic Toc….Teravainen Time.

Jokerit of the SM-Liiga in Finland just played their last game Sunday. Now, it's time for the Finnish superstar to board that plane and head on over to Chicago where he is expected to make the team.

If that happens, it appears that  David Rundblad will be the odd man out (cap reasons), and  Peter Regin may follow him to Rockford.

If cap issues allow it, I'd swap Regin for Morin and Rundblad for Teravainen.  We'll see what really happens. All we know for certain, is that Teuvo Teravainen is finished in Finland (oh,..that's cute) and on his way to joining the Blackhawks in their final 14 games of the season.


Q Shakes Up Lines…IT WORKED!!! Hawks 4-1 Win Over Detroit

23- 19- 81  Versteeg- Toews- Hossa start the game.
29- 26- 88  Bickell- Handzus- Kane as a second line to start the first period.
20- 65- 10  Saad- Shaw- Sharp was a very interesting 3rd line.
52- 16- 28  Bollig- Kruger- Smith…why mess with a good thing? 4th line the same ALL YEAR.

16- 26- 10 Kruger Handzus Sharp… (just after being shorthanded).
23- 19- 81 SAME 1st line.
29- 28- 88-  Wow!!! Smith moves to centering the 2nd line.  Bickell- Smith- Kane
20- 65- 10 SAME 3rd line.
52- 16- 28 SAME. Kruger and Smith rejoin 4th line.

29- 28- 88 2nd Line. Smith again at center.
20- 65- 10 Same 3rd line all game long. (weird seeing Sharp on the 3rd line).
23- 19- 81 Same 1st line all game long.
52- 26- 16  New 4th line. Kruger to wing, Handzus to center.
20- 65- 81….Huh? Hossa goes to the 3rd line with Saad and Shaw.
10- 65- 81… Sharp- Shaw- Hossa. (3rd line is pretty potent yeah?)
Hossa still plays the 1st line late in the game, also.

2nd Period:
Versteeg- Toews- Hossa… Sounds like a good idea.
16-26-10 Kruger- Handzus- Sharp……What?
20-26-16  Saad- Handzus- Kruger. (what line do I call this?)
Bickell Smith and Kane together again…..Hey, if it works…don't mess with it.
Saad Shaw Sharp…back together again.
Shaw- Toew - Sharp. PP Unit.
Versteeg-Smith-Hossa PP Unit….scores…(Leddy scored the PP goal).
20-16-52 Shaw Kruger Bollig reconstructed 4th line.
29- 19- 10  Bickell Toews and Sharp. (I think Sharp may have played on  a zillion different lines tonight)
23- 65- 81  Versteeg Shaw and Hossa (lines are getting ridiculously shuffled after Saad leaves with injury)

3rd Period:
Here's a new one:…..
52- 16- 88        Bollig Kruger and now KANE joins the 4th line.
Later on Handzus takes his place back on the 4th line.
10- 28- 88       Sharp replaces Bickell on the 2nd line.
23- 16- 88   Versteeg Kruger and Kane. Uhmmm 20th line?


-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 First things first…Saad appears to be okay. Find out more tomorrow with this upper body injury.

Next….musical chairs worked…tonight. This was done to shake up the team tonight toward the beginning of the game. Later on it was done to complete lines since Saad had to leave the game with an injury. Kane and Sharp were floaters. Smith was an experiment……it worked!!!!




Saturday, March 15, 2014

Hawks Continue To Play Mediocre Hockey In 2014 Loss to Nashville 3-2@Home

What is it with this team? They only seem to get up to play the better teams, but the lower ranked teams the Hawks go in and play like crap,…expect to skate to a win and they end up losing most of them. This is due to the leadership of players like Keith, Kane, Seabrook and Sharp showing that lackadaisical, half-effort. They know they can turn it on, but they aren't playing with that "hunger" , "desire" to want to put teams away. The Hawks need their leadership core (minus Toews…who always seems to appear for EVERY game), to come to play hard every single night.

Again, tonight, the Hawks aren't playing with any desire to crash the net, get the dirty goal. It's apparent that they think they can turn it on whenever they want. Some bad cancerous attitudes are present in that locker room and they better get rid of it soon before they become a 1st or 2nd round casualty. They're mediocre in PP (lately they're atrocious ), their PK is on the rise but still ranked 20th in the league. In other words, these stats aren't lying.

How about the disappearance of Patrick Kane? WTF has he gone? It appeared with the last two highlight reel goals that he has found his game again. Patrick Sharp? Duncan Keith? Time to step up boys!!!!!!!

Johnny Oduya……other than Colorado (which he showed effort in) he has been bad in judgement.

Andrew Shaw….. is so hit or miss lately. He will make some totally bone head mistakes, then look good on another play.

Marcus Kruger…last two games getting penalties for flipping pucks over the glass. Really?

Peter Regin?…….Totally not buying in the Regin experiment. (I know he scored a goal…great…but, most of the game he looked lost).

Bryan Bickell……hey Bicks!!! Wanna come to play, please?

The entire team is napping. Goaltending hasn't been crisp either. Worried? Yah,…you betcha.

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Teuvo Teräväinen To Join Hawks After FInnish Season is Finished

What was suspected, is now confirmed by both Coach Quenneville and GM Stan Bowman. Finnish sensation Teuvo Teräväinen will join the Blackhawks after his season for Jokerit is finished.

This will probably mean the demotion of Centerman Peter Regin. Hawks normally like to keep an extra defenseman or two, thereby keeping David Rundblad with the Hawks. (We shall see). 

If the Hawks can bring Teravainen in, they could immediately put him on the second line. The first two lines  will be juggled a bit (as usual), but if they wish, the Hawks could Put Sharp-Teravainen-Kane as the second line, and the first line could be Saad-Toews-Hossa.  (This would slide Shaw back to the third line in between Versteeg and Bickell).  4th line would remain the same, therefore the odd man out would be Michael Handzus. 

***Note: Regin's cap hit at the moment is $375 as David Rundblad's cap hit is at $785,000. The Hawks have NO room right now, and they may need to move Rundblad in order to make room…no choice here. 

Hawks fans are getting excited with the thought of Teravainen joining the team.  His skill level and speed are literally off the charts. He may be one of the best NON-NHLers in the world right now. So,… everyone is going to get their opportunity in seeing "the kid" come to town. CAN'T WAIT.

Friday, March 7, 2014

Shaw Makes Most of 1st Line Opportunity

Who would have thought that Saad - Toews - Shaw would amount for 5 points (4 goals) ?

That is exactly what happened tonight. Shaw had 2 goals and  Toews had 2 goals and Saad had a sweet assist on Toews first goal. The 2nd line of Sharp - Regin - Kane still didn't do much. Kane and Sharpies points came on the PP tonight, but as a second line, they didn't make a dent in the scoreboard.


THE 4th LINE:
The 4th line continues to make impressions on everyone. Bollig nets his 7th goal.
Look at that line. Bollig 7 goals, Smith 8 goals, and Kruger 6 goals. That is pretty darn impressive when it comes to the 4th line stats. In addition, they are a nice shut-down line. Bollig is showing that he deserves that 3 year extension. Is Smith next? He should be. If that is the case (and it probably will be), then that will mean 19 guys will be under contract for next season. Handzus, Brookbank, Khabibulin, Raanta, Regin and Smith's contracts all terminate at the end of this season. Smith, Raanta, possibly Regin will end up with contracts. (Will Regin sign a 2 way contract?).

WHO STAYS:
I believe 100% that Khabibulin is DONE. I mean DONE for good. Brooksy I'm not convinced he will return and the same goes with Handzy. So, this gives opportunity for players like Teravainen to get a chance. Others that could get that opportunity to finalize the roster are: Hayes, Hartman, Danault, McNeill, Clendening, Nordstrom, Dahlbeck and LeBlanc and whatever surprise the Hawks throw at us. Remember, Bowman loves to sign veterans, so don't be surprised if he accumulates a low priced veteran that he won't think will change the chemistry any.

OFF SEASON TRADES (possible):
Could there possibly be any offseason trades? YES. But, that list is small. I only see Oduya in that list or possibly sending Rozsival with another player in a trade. Other than that, I don't see much else.


RUNDLBAD & REGIN
So,……let's wait for the remaining games to see how Rundblad and Regin hang with the team, and see the Hawks transform into their playoff selves  within a few weeks. This is the fun time for hockey.


Thursday, March 6, 2014

Morin Stays Put...For Now

I figured that something HAD to happen with Brandon Pirri and/or Jeremy Morin by this trade deadline.
Both players were unhappy being repeatedly sent down to Rockford and neither given a true opportunity to showcase their talents on the NHL roster.

* Both players contracts with the Hawks terminate at the end of this season.

* With the addition of Peter Regin and Pierre-Marc Bouchard (both centermen), this spelled the end of Brandon Pirri's tenure with the Hawks organization for good. Surely, that was the case. Shortly afterward the Hawks trade Pirri to Florida for a future 3rd (2014) and 5th (2016) round pick.

* Hawks brass,...and even the fans, are well aware of Morin's status and his displeasure of being sent down to Rockford.  So, what do the Hawks do? Interestingly enough, the Hawks fill their cap space by adding defenseman David Rundblad. (btw...Rundblad is a stud. But, I didn't see that coming....not surprising however).

* Hawks have not added Morin to their roster, as of yet (However, this is surprising).

* Hawks may be interested in adding Teuvo Teravainen at the end of his season in Finland. This is not too far fetched at all. If that was the case, someone will get sent down (most likely Regin).

Jeremy Morin was the AHL player of the Month for February, and he continues his torrid pace of scoring a point in 13 straight games. Good for J-Mo. I really do like the fact he is making it hard on the brass. What do we do with this kid? Okay,...let's note that J-Mo in no way is a 4th line guy or even a healthy scratch type player. He can fit on the 3rd line with a proper connection.  Morin - Shaw - Versteeg...that could work. 3 guys who are horses.  Bickell - Handzus - Morin.....NO WAY...,   Versteeg - Handzus - Morin. Ehhhh,...
See the problem? Where do you put him? He's truly a top 6 forward, but the only time he can play is NOW. While Hossa is hurt, this would help the team. Great,...then you send Regin down and lose a centerman? So, I'm a bit perplexed about why the Hawks couldn't trade Morin. Let's keep our ears and eyes open for future happenings. Something will happen before/by years end.



Monday, March 3, 2014

Brandon Bollig Gets 3 Year Extension


Brandon Bollig gets his wish. He gets to dress up and play hockey for the best organization in professional hockey…The Chicago Blackhawks. Great job Brandon. Well done!


Apparently,….it is reported that the contract is $1.25m  yearly.  Not too shabby.. I would have figured he would have made $750k per year. So, I guess the Bollig camp did well.



Bob McKenzie @tsnbobmckenzie
Brandon Bollig's AAV on 3-year extension with CHI is $1.25M. You can buy MANY line rickeys at The Hoot Owl with $1.25M. #slu #scaryisntit



  • Beyond excited to remain a Blackhawk for the next three years. Thank you all for the support.