On paper, there’s very little reason to think the Chicago Blackhawks will lose on Friday night when they host the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Hawks are playing well, have a powerful offense, and their defense has been outstanding. Toronto, meanwhile, has been outscored by more than one goal per game so far, doesn’t play much defense, and has trouble scoring.
Friday night should be a layup for the Hawks—which is why it’s a dangerous trap game that could cost the Hawks points if they take Toronto for granted.
Sunday night, which is also Jeremy Roenick Heritage Night at the United Center, the Hawks host the top team in the Western Conference, the San Jose Sharks. That game will serve as a good benchmark to close the first quarter of the season, letting the Hawks know how they stack up against the leaders in the conference.
Toronto comes to Chicago playing as well as they have all year, having won two of their last three. Granted, one was at a Carolina team that might be one of the worst teams in recent memory, but beating the Detroit Red Wings is nothing to be ashamed of.
Allowing five goals to Minnesota on Tuesday is ...
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Article written by TAB BAMFORD
Chicago Blackhawks Cannot Afford to Take the Leafs For Granted
November 13th, 2009 by TAB BAMFORD Leave a reply »
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