Blackhawks – Bruins Game #7: Onward and Upward

The Chicago Blackhawks (2-4) host the Boston Bruins for the final meeting between the two teams this season. Chicago heads into the game on a two-game losing streak while the Bruins try to extend their winning streak to six games.

Previously on Blackhawks Hockey:

The Blackhawks hung tough with Vegas until 13 seconds into the third, when the Golden Knights flew down the ice to take a 3-2 lead. They’d build it to 5-2 before Corey Perry netted one with just 13 seconds left in the game. The loss was the second consecutive against an undefeated team, revealing again just how tough the schedule has been. It spoiled Connor Bedard’s first goal in Chicago which came on the power play during the first period.

Blackhawks – Bruins Look Back

The Bruins took the first meeting 3-1, another Bedard moment when he tallied the only goal of the game for Chicago. It was the Bruins season opener and they’ve reeled off four wins since then.

Roster Notes

• Taylor Hall heads to the IR while Philipp Kurashev makes his season debut
• Nick Foligno heads onward and upward to the top line beside Connor Bedard
• The Kevin Korchinski watch begins as his entry-level deal nears that ever important ninth game which determines whether or not the year slides if he heads back to the WHL (don’t count on it).

How to Watch and Listen

TV: ESPN

Radio: WGN 720

What to Watch For In 75 Words Or Less

The Blackhawks have endured a very challenging first six games and they’ve done admirably well, keeping their goal differential close (-4) while also staying in all but one game (Colorado). Can they play a full 60 minutes against the undefeated Bruins?

Best Case/Worst Case/Final Answer

Best Case – The Hawks upset the Bruins, spoiling the opportunity at a sixth consecutive victory

Worst Case – The Bruins jump out quick and play the Blackhawks more like the Colorado game and less like the Vegas one.

Final Answer: Hall on the top line seemed to provide some stability–after all–he had the assist on Bedard’s power play goal and there seemed to be some chemistry forming there. Now, things shift again with Hall headed to the IR and Foligno filtering up.

Keep an eye on Lukas Reichel, too. He’s certainly due, and has yet to get on the scoresheet–though he’s been awfully close.