Chicago Blackhawks: Five Thoughts After 3-2 Loss To Bruins

Hossa, third line getting it done

Although they didn’t score, Marian Hossa and his linemates Ryan Hartman and Marcus Kruger posted seven shots, five hits and three blocked shots against Boston. Hossa and Hartman both made our list of this season’s three most surprising Blackhawks, and Hoss is making a big push offensively down the stretch, scoring two goals over the past three games, including the game-winner against Columbus.            

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On the season Hossa and Hartman have combined for 44 goals (11 GWG’s) and 74 points while Krugs has held up his end in the faceoff circle, winning 50 percent of his draws. So the ‘Hawks head to the playoffs with a dangerous checking line that can tilt the ice and win some games.

Bottom-six play a winning role

Tootoo’s second goal of the season came off a nifty feed from John Hayden below the goal line and cut the Bruins’ lead to 3-2 midway through the third period. See it here:
https://www.nhl.com/video/tootoo-finds-the-twine/t-283443692/c-51046803

He’s not going to score much, but Toots has been defensively sound all season and shown some ability to drive chances in the offensive zone. Much the same can be said about other role players like Andrew Desjardins, Dennis Rasmussen and Tanner Kero.

Kero has been fabulous centering the second line with Panarin and Kane while Artem Anisimov recovers from injury. For his part Hayden has posted three points, 20 shots, and 38(!) hits since joining the ‘Hawks on an entry-level contract just ten games ago.