Five Thoughts: Chicago Blackhawks Lose 3-2 In OT

The Chicago Blackhawks fell 3-2 in OT in their tilt against the New York Islanders, losing their second straight game in 2019.

The Chicago Blackhawks had themselves a night in Long Island, New York. In a game the Blackhawks had virtually no business competing in, they were held in by the likes of Colin Delia and Patrick Kane. Here are my five thoughts on the Blackhawks loss:

1 – Still Alive But Barely Breathing After First Period

The Chicago Blackhawks may have been listening to The Script after that first period, because they were barely breathing. The ‘Hawks were fortunate enough to score the first goal of the game, but it didn’t last long.

The New York Islanders were able to tie the game with a whimsical goal from Mathew Barzal, which ultimately gave them momentum for the rest of the period. The ‘Hawks left the period down 14-3 in shots, but Colin Delia was able to hold the fort down and keep his team alive in what could’ve been a disastrous period on the scoresheet.

2 – Collin Delia Provides Sensational Effort In Net

If it weren’t for the hot hand of Collin Delia, the Blackhawks wouldn’t have a chance to even compete in this game.

Delia came into tonight with a 3-0-0 record, a 1.67 GAA and a .957 save percentage. As the hot hand, he was able to keep the ‘Hawks in the game no matter how much pressure was put on the team.

They got outshot in each period, yet Delia’s performance and confidence grew with each shot against. He saved 47 of 50 shots against the Islanders and was belted though the first two periods, where 30 of those shots occurred.

Despite the loss, he’s proven that he’s the real De(a)lia.

3 – Brent Seabrook Shows Up Defensively

There has been a lot of talk about Brent Seabrook this year, mentioning low contributions and possible trades to dump his contract. However, it was a night like tonight that shows how well he can contribute if he’s put to the test.

Seabrook was active with the body, piling on 3 hits. This was especially obvious in the second period where he was bodying opponents in front of Delia. Seabrook also used his big body to it’s potential, blocking four shots.

In a game where the Isles had 50 shots on goal, that’s enough for him to get some credit.

4 – Leagues Worst PK Slows Team Down

It doesn’t matter who the Chicago Blackhawks play, but as the leagues worst penalty kill unit taking a penalty is detrimental to their progress.

Almost every shorthanded chance limits this team’s potential. Tonight, it only took one opportunity for Barzel to give the Isles a 2-1 lead in the second period. Luckily, the PK were able to deny the Islanders of a PPG with 3:11 left in the third period tied 2-2, but still, if they were able to kill off the first penalty, this game wouldn’t have needed overtime.

Regardless, taking a penalty in a situation like that creates a swing of momentum. This season, the Chicago Blackhawks are too fragile to handle that.

5 – Patrick Kane Continues Hot Streak

After being shutout in the 2019 Bridgestone Winter Classic, Patrick Kane was destined to get back on the scoresheet, and oh-boy did he. Kane capitalized on the Blackhawk

s’ second power play opportunity in the third period, firing home a knuckle puck to tie the game. The goal would be his sixth in four games, as well as his 23rd of the season. This is why he gets paid the big bucks.

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The Chicago Blackhawks will be back in action Sunday night against the Pittsburgh Penguins, where they look to win their first game of 2019.