Chicago Blackhawks Morning Links: The Stars Are Dull

The Chicago Blackhawks could not put together a consistent effort Thursday against the Dallas Stars, gaining a point but losing in overtime

Good morning, Chicago Blackhawks fans. Hopefully you’ve already put the sour taste of last night’s 4-3 overtime loss to the Dallas Stars out of your mouths … because I’m about to bring it back with these morning links.

The Blackhawks turned in a pretty lackluster effort for two periods before trying to turn things on late, as they typically do. It almost worked, but Corey Crawford couldn’t bail out his team, as he’s done too many times already this season.

The Blackhawks saw Alex DeBrincat stay scorching hot offensively with another goal, as well as Artem Anisimov continue to star with the puck. But the Blackhawks were absolutely crushed in possession for 40 minutes, leading to a big shot disparity (35-22) and a loss.

The Blackhawks trailed the entire way in this one, overcoming 1-0, 2-1 and 3-2 deficits. They posted hideous Corsi-for numbers of 33.33 and 38.1 in the first and second periods, respectively, at 5-on-5. They also wasted six of seven powerplay opportunities.

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If you look at Chicago’s shot chart at 5-on-5 from this game, it shows no distinct extra presence in any area on the ice. Meanwhile, the doorstep area in front of Crow is about as dark as can be on Dallas’ chart, meaning the Stars were constantly there at even strength.

The Blackhawks had been doing a nice job getting to the net to finish scoring chances. That did not translate in this game. But the good news is, the Blackhawks have a quick chance to fix their errors, as they face the Stars again Saturday (though on the road).

Chicago Blackhawks morning links

— It’s not just us complaining about the defense. Faxes From Uncle Dale

— Big John Studd. The-Rink

— The more traditional wrap. Chicago Sun-Times

— Maybe the SuperSonics will come back, too. The Athletic

— I’m a tomato. Chicago Blackhawks

Next: Blackhawks' Eye On The Enemy: Dallas Stars

Also, tonight was Tracey Myers’ final game as a Blackhawks beat writer for NBC Sports Chicago. She’s taking a position with NHL Network as a Central Division-focused writer, but that’s still a big loss for the Blackhawks fan and blogging community. Blackhawk Up wishes Tracey all the best in her future endeavors.