Blackhawks Split the Weekend / Look Ahead

The Blackhawks entered a pivotal weekend in need of "at least" 2 points in my opinion and that's exactly what transpired over 2 matchups at the United Center. The Florida Panthers came in redhot going 3-0-1 over their last 4 and the Hawks came out very strong. With a dominant 3-0 lead after the 1st period the Hawks would add a Connor Bedard "snipe" to pad the lead and eventually come away with a 5-2 victory.

The next day, a short handed New Jersey Devils club came in and put forth an onslaught of attacks in the 2nd period to wear down the home squad and win 4-2 (with an empty net goal with 0.04 remaining albeit). It was nice to see Arvid Soderblom come back and make tough stops after the game in Arizona (an 8-1 loss).

Overall the 2 games collectively netted a result that I was expecting; 2 points. At 4-7 now on the early season, expectations are likely on point for most in-depth fans. How will the Blackhawks fare coming up? Let's take a quick look ahead.

Chicago will now go on their state of Florida trip as they play against Brandon Hagel and the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday before moving south to have a rematch against the Panthers on Sunday. Make it a trio of Florida matchups then as the Hawks come home as they welcome in the Lightning on Thursday the 16th.

So a few days off here as the club looks to reset and get on the road to what looks like a jump of 25-30 degree weather (Chicago vs Tampa Bay) that hopefully gets the blood boiling for some wins.