Surging Chicago Blackhawks to face the regressing Vancouver Canucks – NHL Preview
Just like the way Chicago Blackhawks went down during the last couple of months they have now started surging in a notable manner.
Not only did their recent run amplified their chances of qualifying for the playoffs of the National Hockey League (NHL), the performance has also set the alarm bells ringing for the other playoff contenders.
On the other hand, Vancouver Canucks might rather easily qualify for the playoffs, but their recent performance is below par and they should regroup and find their rhythm if they want to keep on progressing.
Both teams are going to face each other on Wednesday, March 21, 2012, at United Center, Chicago, Illinois.
Let’s have a look at both teams.
Blackhawks
They are ranked at sixth spot in the Western Conference with 90 points after 74 games and are presently on a four-game winning streak with the victories coming against St. Louis Blues (4-3 after shootout), Dallas Stars (4-1), Washington Capitals (5-2) and
Columbus Blue Jackets (5-1).
In the game against Blue Jackets, Blackhawks scored three goals in the first period without conceding any.
After the goalless second period, Blackhawks scored twice in the final period while giving away one goal.
Blackhawks’ defenseman, Duncan Keith, said after the game:
"We're going good right now, but we've learned a lot this year so far. The one thing we've learned is we're not going to take anything for granted. We're playing better, but we know there's still more there that we need to get better at. We're happy about
our starts lately and that's been a key in our last three games."
Canucks
They are ranked at second spot in the Western Conference with 94 points after 72 games.
Canucks have played eight games this month and lost five with the recent defeat coming against Minnesota Wild.
Wild scored one goal in the first period and another in the final, but Canucks failed to register even a single scoring move.
Canucks’ centre, Ryan Kesler, said after the game:
"We've got to muster up a way to find a way to win games. If we play the way we can and we get better, we shouldn't have a problem winning the majority of our games from here on out."
Predictions
Blackhawks have an edge.
The sum of goals scored by both teams will be six or more.
If Canucks win, the winning margin will be less than two goals.
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