Rough day in Chicago to say the least. No Olympics and then the Hawks blow three separate leads. But all is not lost. Here is what I saw from todays game.
The offense is as explosive as last year and we still are waiting for Marian Hossa. The Hawks managed to put up 55 shots on net, an astounding number for the first game of the season. The amount of shots just speaks volumes about how well the Panther goaltender, Tomas Vokoun, played. He was an absolute wall. That said, three goals found the back of the net, which on any given night should be enough to win a game.
So why did we fail to hold a 1-0, 2-1 and 3-2 lead? Because we left our defensive abilities in Chicago. Maybe the defense was worried about getting the 2016 Olympics or had trouble adjusting their sleep cycle to Finland. Whatever it was, we played one-way hockey tonight. Despite having 55 shots on goal, it felt to me that the puck was always in front of the Hawks net. And after giving up two leads, the defense had a chance to redeem itself by holding on for the win. But again, with 2:21 left in the game, Seabrook dribbles the puck, rather than clearing, gets tangled between a Hawks line change and next thing you know the Panthers have tied the game. Two, less than enthusiastic, shoot out save attempts later and the Hawks get one point and an overtime loss.
What should we look for tomorrow:
1. Big 33 in front of the net. Buff is an immovable object in front and we need him there all day tomorrow to beat what looks like a hot goaltender.
2. A better defensive effort. Nough said.
3. The first appearance of the Hawks W Flag!
Goals Today:
Sharp (1)
Kane (1)
Byfuglien (1)
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