Weekly Blackhawks Update
Recently, the Blackhawks have reached a sort of slump since their first regulation loss against Colorado weeks ago. The Hawks have now lost five games in regulation bringing their overall record, as of 4/1/2013, to 26-5-3 with a point total of 55.
Although the loss column of the Hawks remains the lowest in the NHL, the Pittsburgh Penguins have now officially surpassed the Blackhawks for the first time this season with a total of 56 points and a record of 28-8-0. Not too far behind the Hawks is Western Conference opponent, the Anaheim Ducks with 51 points.
With this is mind, the Hawks need to really step up and reclaim the number one spot in the NHL that they deserve.
In other news, forwards Marian Hossa and Patrick Sharp still remain on the injured list. This is definitely a major factor in the Blackhawks lack of success as of late. It is apparent that without these two star players, the Hawks are somewhat struggling to maintain the dominance displayed earlier this season.
One bright side to the dilemma of having Hossa and Sharp out is the further development of the younger players. Without Hossa and Sharp, more opportunities are given to the players who lack in ice time.
For example, Michael Frolik has been turned into a 1st line forward for the Hawks as of late. Frolik has definitely improved this season from last season and this opportunity is really helping him develop into a legitimate role player.
Due to the looming injuries faced by the Hawks, there is a need to fill the spots left open by Hossa and Sharp. The Hawks’ solution was to bring up young forwards Jimmy Hayes and Jeremy Morin. Both Morin and Hayes played for the Blackhawks in previous seasons, however this is the first time this season they have been really depended on.
In fact, both Jeremy Morin and Jimmy Hayes have already registered points this season against Chicago’s rivals, the Detroit Red Wings. Morin has scored one goal while Jimmy Hayes has one goal and two assists. I hope that both Hayes and Morin continue to develop and contribute to the overall offense while Hossa and Sharp remain out.
Needed Improvements
DEFENSE! The Hawks defense as of late has been struggling, there is no way around it. One player that has really fizzled out so far this season is Johnny Oduya.
After a great start to this season, Oduya has been phasing out of what looked to be like his best season for the Hawks yet. He has been moved around quite a bit in the defensive pairings and has really been quiet lately.
Trade rumors have been going around that the Hawks are looking for a new defenseman to help the Hawks at the blue line, Oduya being one of the problems. Oduya and the rest of the Defensemen better pick it up or else he may be replaced!
Another improvement needed is the improvement of some forwards for the Hawks. For one, Bryan Bickell has been very quiet lately. After such a good offensive streak, Bickell has yet to make another impact for a few weeks. I hope he picks it up soon because the Hawks need him!
Other Forwards like Carcillo, Mayers, and Bollig also have been doing close to nothing lately. In fact, Mayers and Bollig are a usual scratch lately. I can understand Bollig, since he is a true fighter, not a scorer, but Mayers and Carcillo have somewhat of an offensive skill set. All three forwards need to show Coach Quenneville that they want to contribute all around, or else they will find themselves to be “healthy scratches” every game.
Frank’s Three Stars of the Week
1st Star: Brandon Saad
2nd Star: Johnathan Toews
3rd Star: Nick Leddy
Saad: Brandon has been consistently scoring for the Hawks, especially lately! He has 6 goals and 13 assists bringing him to 19 points. Keep it up Saad!
Toews: Johnny Toews really needs no explanation. He continues to lead the Hawks with his amazing talent and leadership. With 17 goals and 18 assists, his 35 points will continue to increase without a doubt.
Leddy: Nick Leddy has really turned up his play this season. He continues to improve and contribute offensively. HE currently has 6 goals and 9 assists, total of 15 points. Leedy ties Seabrook with most goals out of the Hawks defensemen.
Frank Markasovic
Sports Editor