Chicago Blackhawks Roundtable: Upcoming Enemies And All-Star Bids

Greg Bradshaw

Question 1: The last two meetings between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Winnipeg Jets have resulted in Jets’ victories. Dec 27 will be the third matchup this season between the two Central Division foes, and I’m anxious to see if the ‘Hawks will be able to pull off a victory.

Question 2: I’m going to go with Artemi Panarin here. While I expect many to answer the same with this question, it’s just a fact that the young Russian deserves his first All-Star appearance here.

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Currently riding a five-game point streak, with 4 goals and 7 assists over that time, the Breadman is proving game after game that he’s the real deal.

George Clifford

Question 1: The Ottawa Senators (Tuesday). The Senators have struggled a bit lately, but they beat the Islanders on Sunday night to remain in second place in the Atlantic Division with 39 points. Timely scoring and excellent goaltending make them a real contender and a major test for the Blackhawks.

Question 2: Marian Hossa. Hossa leads the team with 16 goals and the NHL with three overtime game-winning goals. His resurgence this year is a major factor in the Blackhawks’ rise to the top of the Western Conference and league.

Aaron Goldschmidt

Question 1: None of the games remaining in the calendar year intrigue me, so I’m most excited to see the Penguins come to town on March 1.

They’re the reigning Stanley Cup Champions, and I think Sidney Crosby and Jonathan Toews have a friendly rivalry going.  Crosby has been on a tear so far this season, so it will make for a heck of a game.

Minnesota has been playing really great hockey lately, so I’m also anticipating several great games with them.

Question 2: I don’t think this team would be where they are in the standings if it wasn’t for Marian Hossa. His late-game scoring has given them the edge lately in several close games even with key contributors out from injury.

I also think Artemi Panarin should get some votes. What’s a sophomore slump anyway? He’s on pace for another 30 goal season. The Blackhawks need to re-sign this guy.