How Chicago Blackhawks can still win the quarter-finals over the Vancouver Canucks – NHL Play-offs
The Chicago Blackhawks answered back hard against the Vancouver Canucks who were in elimination mode on Tuesday during game four of the Western Conference quarter-finals. Chicago retaliated and played aggressively to over-come the Canucks by a major 7-2
victory for them, showing that they can win if they just try.
If the defending Stanley Cup champions want to remain defending, they need to win the remaining three games. At the moment if logically thought out, seems to be an impossible task which the Hawks are not up to. It’s the little adjustments that Chicago made
to their line-up against the Canucks on Tuesday that made all of the difference. Adding Dave Bolland even after a number of people criticised the decision, turned out to be the key to victory. Commenting on Bolland’s presence in the match-up after their win,
Chicago Coach Joel Quenneville said, "A huge boost, we certainly fed off his presence."
According to most die-hard hockey fans, the Hawks have absolutely no ability in taking over the Canucks whatsoever, but there still are ways that might lift their chances just a little bit that might spark that winning desire inside of them. Some ways are:
1. Gain an Early Lead
One thing Vancouver seems to have difficulty with is when their trailing behind on a couple of goals. Taking an early lead of at least 2-0 would be helpful because after gaining an advantage will allow them to focus more on defending their end against the
vicious Vancouver attackers. Playing a defensive-only strategy is likely their best shot at winning after and only after securing a lead.
It might be a difficult task but it is the most effective way to guarantee victory.
2. Defensive Lockdown
Vancouver is an immensely talented team when it comes to talking about offensive attackers. They have the National Hockey Leagues’ leading scorers, the Sedin twins Henrik and Daniel, what more of an aggressive force could you ask for? Locking down and completely
guarding your own end is the best way to play against a team like the Canucks. A lockdown will only be possible and effective when the Hawks have taken a lead which they can maintain later on throughout the game.
Brian Campbell is a great overall defensive player who can control the puck when in need. Giving him more time on the ice could mean a better defensive play for them.
3. Less Penalties
Both options above have their own place, but when the Hawks start to give off penalty time and have players being sent to the benches then it opens up Vancouver’s favourite opportunities especially when their playing against a defensive team. The worst mistake
will be to give them a 5-on-3 advantage, which the Canucks will instantly capitalise on.
Both of the Canucks goals in game four were power play-goals. Had the Hawks not given any penalties, it’s safe to say that Vancouver would have been shut-out after a very long time.
4. Take more Shots
One thing that can not hurt anyone is taking more shots. It should be part of every game but Chicago has been lacking in that department. The Hawks should aim for the net whenever they get the chance to which should become a hard and fast rule. The more
attempts, the more goals Chicago can make and that is always a good thing.
Pressurising Luongo to break should be their top priority like they did in game four in which he was replaced after six goals.
Losing in game seven is much better than anytime earlier in the series. Chicago has a chance to climb up to glory as they head back to the Rogers, Arena in Vancouver.
The views expressed in this article are the writer's own and in no way represent Bettor.com's official editorial policy.
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