The Chicago Blackhawks needed a big effort from their defensive unit with Duncan Keith under suspension for Game 4 of the Western Conference finals. Led by Niklas Hjalmarsson, the Blackhawks got such an effort.
Chicago bested the Kings 3-2 Thursday night to take a 3-1 series lead coming back to the United Center Saturday. Bryan Bickell provided the muscle up front and Marian Hossa contributed a clutch third-period goal. However, props have to be given to the blue line, who stepped up on a night that absolutely required it.
Coach Joel Quenneville leaned heavily on four skaters on the back end. Sheldon Brookbank was used sparingly, as was Nick Leddy. Brookbank hadn't logged minutes in the postseason and it showed. He did look comfortable when he had the puck in the Chicago zone, though.
The pairing of Johnny Oduya and Michal Rozsival just may have been the difference in the contest for the 'Hawks. The two veterans played 22:54 and 25:28, respectively, and withstood the pressure in their own zone all evening long.
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Article written by Jon Fromi