The Chicago Blackhawks have played four of their first six games away from the United Center. Things don't get any better over the next two weeks, though a 6-0 start does offer a lot in the way of optimism.
The 'Hawks have six straight road games to plow through before returning to home cooking for most of the rest of February. A lengthy seven-game home stand awaits Chicago as it prepares to begin the road set up in Minnesota. Can this club return to the Windy City in control of the Western Conference?
To remain at or near the top, the Blackhawks have to continue to play well in areas that have been a strength in the early stages of the 2013 season. Here's where Chicago needs to continue to excel.
1. The Penalty Kill
It's true that the ability of the 'Hawks power play to take advantage has been a pleasant change from a year ago; the team has been at its best when down a man.
Chicago is currently second in the NHL in PK efficiency, having allowed a single goal in 23 opponent chances. That certainly was evident in the 'Hawks 2-1 win over Detroit when they killed six Red Wing power plays to keep the game close.
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Jon Fromi
Chicago Blackhawks: What Needs to Continue as the Road Games Pile Up
January 29th, 2013 by Jon Fromi Leave a reply »
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