Chicago Blackhawks' Hockey Is Back, In Multiple Forms
Apr 15, 2016; St. Louis, MO, USA; Chicago Blackhawks left wing Artemi Panarin (72) celebrates with Patrick Kane (88) and Artem Anisimov (15) after scoring the game-winning goal during the third period in game two of the first round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the St. Louis Blues at Scottrade Center. The Blackhawks won the game 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Billy Hurst-USA TODAY Sports
Did you know you can watch someone from Chicago Blackhawks play hockey every single night for the rest of the week?
That’s right, my friends. This week we are in for a real treat. The World Cup of Hockey championship series starts tonight and continues Thursday and Saturday (the last one if needed). Team Europe and Team Canada have reached the final stage.
Chicago Blackhawks forward Marian Hossa will suit up for Europe, and Jonathan Toews and Corey Crawford are the ’Hawks that will be representing Canada.
On top of that, Chicago Blackhawks training camp is in full swing. Their first preseason contest is Wednesday against the Pittsburgh Penguins. They also have games Friday, Saturday and Sunday. So for the next six nights, there will be Chicago Blackhawks to watch in some way, shape or form!
There are many interesting storylines to follow as this week unfolds. Let’s start with the World Cup.
Does Team Europe have what it takes to overcome Team Canada? It’s hard to say. I personally thought Sweden stood a better chance. But they were defeated in overtime 3-2 by Team Europe.
This means Niklas Hjalmarsson and Marcus Kruger are free to return to training camp for the ’Hawks. It’s been reported that they (as well as Artemi Panarin and Artem Anisimov from Team Russia) will join their other teammates on Friday.
As I watched the Europe/Sweden matchup on Sunday, it was disheartening to see that the stands were barely half full in Toronto. Even my Twitter feed only had tidbits here and there about the game. Everyone else seemed to be more interested in the football games. This was a bit sad, as the Sweden and Europe both played one heck of a competitive game. It was very entertaining to watch.
Sep 21, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Team Canada forward Jonathan Toews (16) and forward Sidney Crosby (87) and goaltender Corey Crawford (50) celebrate a win over Team Europe during preliminary round play in the 2016 World Cup of Hockey at Air Canada Centre. Team Canada defeated Team Europe 4-1. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
The Canadians are in control
It appears that all anyone really cares about is the Team Canada. Well, we will get to see them in full force for at least two more games.
Toews hasn’t really stood out too much; the line to watch is that of Brad Marchand, Sidney Crosby and Patrice Bergeron. The team is so stacked that Toews is actually relegated to the third line. But if you think he’s not still an important piece of the puzzle, think again.
Here is an excellent article about how Toews is the perfect utilityman for the team. He is integral in shutting down the opponent’s top lines, as well as still being a threat offensively.
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Blackhawk Up 1 wChicago Blackhawks: World Cup Of Hockey Necessary Risk
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In the meantime, Corey Crawford will serve as backup goaltender to Carey Price. Now, Crawford has made no secret about the fact that he is very honored to be chosen for Team Canada. It is well-deserved indeed. He was even given the starting gig in the final tilt of the round robin games, against Team Europe.
But it would be a huge surprise if he usurps Price in the finals. Instead, he will have a front-row seat on the bench. I feel he would be better utilized in training camp with the Chicago Blackhawks. But, it is what it is. Enjoy the ride, Corey, and then be ready to get back to work when it’s all over.
On the other side of the ice, Hossa will play for Team Europe. Man, is he fun to watch! There’s no doubt about it; when he has the puck, he has the puck! He operates with such power and control.
And he’s only gotten better as the tournament has gone along. Hossa is excited to play in the finals; he may even have an alternative reason to be happy.
Hopefully Hossa and his teammates can give Team Canada a run for their money. Although it was announced yesterday that Team Europe’s Marian Gaborik has sustained a foot injury, and is projected to be out for the next eight weeks. This is a huge blow for the team. But I guarantee they won’t go down without a fight. It should be an interesting series.
Jan 5, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith (2) skates with the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the first period at the CONSOL Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Back in the NHL, the Chicago Blackhawks are preparing for their preseason games
Obviously, training camp and preseason games are all about practice and preparation for the regular season. But there is some added intrigue this year. The Chicago Blackhawks have 3-5 open forward positions for the taking. This means there are a lot of youngsters (and veterans) who will be fighting for a roster spot.
This next week, we’re going to see and hear a lot about young guns like Ryan Hartman, Mark McNeill, Nick Schmaltz, Vincent Hinostroza, Tanner Kero, Tyler Motte and Kyle Baun. Brandon Mashinter and Dennis Rasmussen were on the team last year, but they certainly don’t have a guaranteed spot this season. Newly acquired Jordin Tootoo is in the same boat.
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At least a few of these names could be future stars for the Chicago Blackhawks. It’s always intriguing to watch and see who will come out on top. And of course it’s human nature to pick favorites. It’s only natural to find yourself rooting for certain players.
In other preseason news, defenseman Duncan Keith has been at training camp from the onset, after sitting out the World Cup to continue to rehab his right knee. Assistant coaches Mike Kitchen and Kevin Dineen want Keith to ease into things, just to be safe. But he appears to be having a hard time with that.
Duncan Keith practiced today and his knee felt well enough that he asked to participate in the second practice. He didn’t.#Blackhawks
— Chris Kuc (@ChrisKuc) September 25, 2016
The coaches seem to be getting their way, because it was announced yesterday Keith would not participate in the first four preseason games. He has not been ruled out for the final two games, however. And everyone has their fingers crossed that he will be able to start the regular season.
Despite the early absence of Keith, new defensemen Brian Campbell and Michal Kempny should be participating this preseason. I’m sure they’re anxious to get used to their new teammates and surroundings, as well as get comfortable with the new systems.
Let’s see. What other reasons are there to watch the Chicago Blackhawks’ preseason? Patrick Kane will likely be back with one or both of his old linemates, Panarin and/or Anisimov. With Crawford at the World Cup, we’ll get to see a little more of netminder Scott Darling. Will Richard Panik really earn himself a spot on the first line? It will be nice to see Brent Seabrook again. How will the defensive pairings play out? The list goes on and on.
So, grab your popcorn and beverage of choice and find a comfy spot on the couch. As a Chicago Blackhawks fan, this week promises to be interesting and entertaining. Whether the World Cup or preseason action is your thing, you’re guaranteed a dose of at least one or the other over the next six days! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the fact that “hockey is here.” And remember, there’s only 15 more days until opening night!
Let’s Go ’Hawks!!!
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