Blackhawks PK Falters Again, This Time Against Nashville's P.K. in 3-2 Loss

The Chicago Blackhawks went on the road for the first time this year as they started a home and home series in Smashville against the Nashville Predators.  For the second straight game, the Blackhawks penalty kill was dismal and cost the Hawks the game as they fell 3-2.  Three power play goals were scored by the Preds.  All of which, Corey Crawford never saw.  That turned out to be the difference in the game.

Ryan Johansen had 3 assists, while Mike Fisher and Roman Josi, both had a goal and an assist for Nashville.  P.K. Subban started his career in the puke yellow sweater with a bang as he scored on his first shot as a Pred.  He also was a presence that could only resemble David Backes.  He hounded both, Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane all night.

Marcus Kruger got the Hawks in front, just 2:39 into the game to give the Hawks an early lead.  Subban then tallied for the first of the three PPGs for Nashville.  Niklas Hjalmarsson, in his first game back from suspension, gave the Hawks a 2-1 lead before the Preds converted on their 2nd power play.  Mid-way through the 2nd period, Fisher gave Nashville their first and only lead of the game which was all they needed.



The Blackhawks will have to make some adjustments on their penalty kill, which they did not do throughout the game tonight.  If they are going to let Crawford fend for himself with a man in front of the net, they are going to have to have their penalty killers out blocking shots.  Ryan Hartman did so tonight, but left the game early with a lower body injury.  Quenneville when asked if Hartman's injury will last weeks: "He'll be out for more than a few games."


Notable mentions: The Blackhawks have given up 8 goals this year.  None of them have come at even strength.  Faceoffs continue to be a problem as they only won 44% of their draws on the night.  They also need to take better shots.  Nashville had 19 blocked shots.  Duncan Keith had 6 of them blocked.  he was credited with 1 shot on goal tonight.  Marian Hossa was active, but is still searching for career goal #500.

 

Next Game: Saturday, October 15th, home versus Nashville Predators, 7:30PM TV:WGN

LET'S GO HAWKS!!!