Chicago Blackhawks: 5 Takeaways From This Weekend

Dec 5, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews (19) celebrates with right wing Kris Versteeg (23), right wing Patrick Kane (88), and center Brad Richards (91) after scoring a goal during the third period at the United Center. The Blackhawks won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

3.  The Showtime Line. You know who I’m talking about, but I’ll explain it anyway.  Last season Patrick Kane was dubbed Mr. Showtime when he came up with some great clutch goals during the playoffs.  It seems only fitting to name Kane and his 2 sidekicks “The Showtime Line”.  I know this trio has been quiet the last two games, although Kane, Versteeg, and Richards all recorded assists during the Canadiens game.  But I wanted to share their new nickname.  To take words out of Coach Q’s mouth, this line is dangerous and always a threat.  They’re not done yet.

2.  Stellar Broadcasting. On Friday night, the Chicago Blackhawks honored broadcaster Pat Foley, who was recently inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.  They made a special tribute to him during the first period, and it was Pat Foley bobble head night at the United Center.  It’s easy to take for granted the excitement and enthusiasm he brings to Blackhawks games.

You also have to hand it to Steve Konroyd.  Some people think he’s too monotone and boring, but I disagree.  When I first started to analyze and try to better understand this great game of hockey, Steve Konroyd is the one who made the most sense to me.  He’s keeps it simple and tells it like it is, with a great air professionalism every night (even with the WGN broadcasters).

And of course we can’t forget the great Eddie Olczyk.  I never get enough (and neither does he) of his “all you young hockey fans out there” and “keep your stick on the ice”!  He makes a great “partner” to Pat Foley.  Thank you to all three of these guys for making our Blackhawks experience that much more enjoyable.

1.  Keep it coming. It’s a great ride right now for the Chicago Blackhawks.  I was predicting a win and a loss this weekend (Now I’m really happy to be wrong).  The Hawks have handled top notch teams in Anaheim, LA, St. Louis, Montreal, and Nashville over the past week.   They’ve won 6 games in a row and currently lead the Central Division with 37 points.  But fellow division teams St. Louis and Nashville are right on their heels with 36 points.  The Anaheim Ducks (also Western Conference) and Tampa Bay Lightning have 39 points, and the Pittsburgh Penguins have 38 points.  This is no time to let off the gas.  Every point counts and the Blackhawks need to continue to ride their momentum.  Keep it coming, Hawks!

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