Blackhawks Game #58: Another Win Against Winnipeg?

The Chicago Blackhawks (15-39-3) play host to the Winnipeg Jets tonight at the United Center. Puck drop is at 7:30pm.

Previously on Blackhawks Hockey:

The Blackhawks fell victim to a similar outcome, not getting the full sixty minutes they sought and falling to the Philadelphia Flyers 3-1 Wednesday.

How to Watch and Listen

TV: NBC Sports Chicago
Radio: WGN 720

Scouting the Opponent & Miscellaneous Musings

It was a similar scene on Wednesday where the Blackhawks had their chances but couldn’t find a way to push through to get the victory. Now, they face Winnipeg who they’ve already faced this season three times and have played tight in all three games–which included a 2-1 overtime win back on December 27th. It was Connor Bedard who potted both goals in that victory.

The Jets, though, are the league’s stingiest team defensively, which for the goal-starved Blackhawks, could prove problematic. Their 128 goals against leads the league by a healthy margin, but Chicago has been able to hang with the Jets in those previous three meetings.

The Jets are headed to the playoffs while the Blackhawks are taking stock of who’s standing out as a number of players are playing on expiring deals. Some do have arbitration rights, others not unrestricted. My case for Colin Blackwell has been made. There are other jockeying for position that will warrant a hard look as Chicago is likely to infuse more of its prospect talent into the lineup next season.

Bedard was held off the scoresheet for the time since his injury–but that’s hardly of concern. His presence alone opens up opportunities for others whether on his line or further down the depth chart. It’s the unqiue value he brings–and it will only become more prominent as talent rises within the roster.

So in the final stretch of the season, losing will likely still outpace the wins. But as stated in an early preview, the fun part will be watching who develops further and ultimately, who stays on the roster for next season.

In what is building up to be a weekend of nostalgia and fun, the Blackhawks have a chance to start the weekend on a winning note.

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