Chicago Blackhawks Force Rinne Out in 7-2 Rout of Predators

The Chicago Blackhawks get their revenge in a 7-2 rout of the Predators.

In arguably their biggest test of the season, the Chicago Blackhawks defeated the Nashville Predators 7-2. This was one of the most impressive performances of the 2019-20 season. The ‘Hawks move to 8-7-4 on the season, marking the first time they are over .500 on the season.

This was a far better performance than the one the Blackhawks put forth a week and a half ago in Nashville. They actually made the Predators pull goaltender Pekka Rinne in the second period.

This was karma at its finest, after Rinne made these remarks after the last time these two teams played. Maybe next time he’ll think twice before he speaks.

The Predators got off to a hot start to this game, but Erik Gustafsson scored a goal on the Chicago Blackhawks’ second shot of the game and they never looked back. The ‘Hawks even had some puck luck on their side when a throw-in by the Preds almost got past Robin Lehner, but Duncan Keith swept the puck off the line.

Dominik Kubalik scored a goal off a great defensive play by Kirby Dach late in the first period. Dach now has points in three straight games for the first time in his career. He continues to look better every game.

The second period is when the ‘Hawks began to take over, with a Brent Seabrook goal off a wonky backhander early in the second period. Patrick Kane got an assist on this goal, extending his season long point streak to eight games.

David Kampf scored a nice goal off a pretty passing play by Olli Maatta and Andrew Shaw. The balance of the lineup has really helped the ‘Hawks these last few games. This was also the goal that knocked Rinne out of the game.

The third period saw the Predators score two goals by Roman Josi early, but the solid play of Robin Lehner didn’t let the Preds get any closer. The Blackhawks then put the heat on and scored three more goals, one by Patrick Kane and two by Alexander Nylander. Both came on beautiful passing plays.

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This was the most complete 60 minute effort we’ve seen from the Chicago Blackhawks this season, and against a very good opponent. Connor Murphy’s return to the lineup really helped, as the defense looked very solid. Duncan Keith also had a great game and looked like prime Keith.

The balance from the lineup was evident, as every line scored a goal. 13 different players had a point in tonight’s game. Whatever new system Jeremy Colliton has employed, it’s working. The Blackhawks have gone 5-1-1 in their last seven games.

The Chicago Blackhawks are now on a three-game winning streak. They will look to extend that streak tomorrow night at the United Center, when they face the Buffalo Sabres.