Scott and Sharpie signings

I went to two Hawks signings recently.  The first one was John Scott.  He was at Binny's in Arlington Heights sponsered by The Score 670am for Bud Light Hockey Night in Chicago on 11/30/11. John Scott arrived early which was nice to see.  Overall, John is a pretty nice outgoing kind of guy.  It ws a first for him to sign a lampshade.  Asked me if I had made the lamp since i showed him a pic of it......I WISH!    Here are a few pics from the event.

This is John when he had arrived.

Scott talking to a fellow Hawks fan

Scott signed a pic that The Score had provided

Scott signature on my lampshade.

Next up was Patrick Sharp.  He was at the PNC bank in Crystal Lake on 12/1/11.  I got there pretty early for this one since I knew it was going to be a madhouse and of course it was.  Sharp arrived and had parked right in front of the bank.  All I gotta say is there are some pretty crazy fans and Im not talkin about funny ones either.  When Sharpie had gotten out of his car he waved to the crowd.  Once he got inside the bank...there were fans that were taking a picture of his car and standing next to it.....REALLY, STALK MUCH!  I mean i can understand if he was actually in car but he wasn't.  I guess everyone is entitled to their own opinion. 

I got Sharp to sign a pic of me and him.  I was surprised that he remembered how long ago the pic was taken...it was from one of the Seabs charity bowling events.  I got him to personalize it and write "YEAH SHARPIE!"  It looks sweet!  Here are some pics from this event and gotta say the last one....HELLO SHARP!!! :)

Hello SHARPIE!

Upcoming signings
-Tony O will be at Navy Pier Winter Wonderland on Thurs 12/29 at 3-4:30
-Dave Bolland will be at Austin Saloon in Libertyville on Tues 1/3 at 7-8:30 for Bud Light Hockey Night in Chicago from 670am The Score
-Daniel Carcillo (paid signing) will be at Dean's Dugout on Monday Jan 16th from 6:30-8:30 and its 25 bucks per auto.

What's new with the Hawks??

Been a while since I wrote one of these....so here is what's going on with the Hawks. They are 19-8-4 with 42 pts. ranking them 1st in the division, 2nd in the conference, and 3rd overall in the league. The Blackhawks began a six-game road trip by improving to an NHL-best 12-4-3. It is their best start since the 1982-83 season. They were 3-3 on their circus trip. In the last 13 games they have been 8-4-1 with Emery getting the nod lately. Here are some stats.



Top Leaders in each category
Goals- 18 Toews
Assists- 23 Kane
Points- 34 Toews
+/- +15 Hossa -11 Brunette
Takeaways- 36 Toews
Hits- 69 Carcillo
Blocked Shots- 81 Hjalmarsson
Giveaways- 19 Keith
FO%- 61.2% Toews
PIM- 60 Carcillo
PPG- 5 Hossa
SHG- 2 Hossa and Bolland
TOI- 26:13 Keith
S%-17.8% Toews
GWG- 4 Sharp and Toews



Overall as a team
Power play- In the last 13 games, the Hawks have scored 13 goals in 45 opportunities have a man-advantage. That gives them a 28.8% on their PP. As of right now they are ranked 8th in the league with a 19.5% for the season.

Penalty kill-In the last 13 games, the Hawks have allowed 8 goals in 40 chances of being short-handed. That gives them a 80% on their PK. Although if you take the last 10 games into consideration they have only allowed 4 goals in 31 opportunites giving them a 87.1%. As of right now they are ranked 27th at 77.9% for the season.

Offense- In the last 13 games, the Hawks have averaged 3.15 goals per game. They are ranked 4th in the league with a 3.19 for the season.

Defense-In the last 13 games, the Hawks have averaged 3.31 goals against. They are ranked 20th with 2.97 goals against for the season.

Goaltending- In the last 13 games, 3 games where both goalies were used so im putting those in the tie area and whoever started get its. Crawford has been 4-2-2 while Emery has been 4-0-1. As of today, Crawford GAA is 3.0....Emery is at 2.70 GAA. Emery is .904% while Crawford is .896% for SV% for the season.

The good -Power play, offense, PK
The okay- goaltending
The bad-defense



Who's Hot
Toews-leads the team with goals, FO%, takeaways, and points
Sharp-scores a back-to-back GWG in overtime (12/8 & 12/11)
Hossa-5G, 9A in the last 13 games

Who's Not
Bickell-has been scratched for the past 5 games before yesterdays game (12/14)
Frolik-last 13games...only 2G, 1A, -3 needs to start picking up his game
Smith-sent down to Rockford 12/12/11




Game stats
Hawks vs. Canucks (11/16/11)
Hawks win 5-1
-Hawks were 2 for 3 on their PP while Canucks had none.
-Hawks 27 SOG, Canucks 29 SOG
-Keith, Hossa, and Hansen were the 3 stars of the game
-Hawks were outhit 27-14
-Hawks blocked 23 shots while Canucks blocked 9 shots
-Montador, Kane, and Toews had 1G, 1A, +2

Hawks vs. Flames (11/18/11)
Flames win 5-2
-Hawks were 1 for 4 on their PP while Flames were 0 for 2
-Hawks had 32 SOG while Flames had 26 SOG
-Hawks were 60% at the dot with Toews/Bolland at 71%
-Flames had 17 blocked shots while Hawks had 10
-Keith with a -4 for the game.....YIKES! although he had a helper(assist)
-Glencross had 2G, 1A +2

Hawks vs. Oilers (11/19/11)
Oilers win 9-2
-Hawks were 2 for 6 while Oilers were 4 for 7 on their power play
-Oilers had 34 SOG, Hawks 36SOG
-Emery was replaced by Crawford although he came back in the 2nd.
-Emery allowed 7G in 27 shots
-Sharp and Bolland were the only ones that scored for the Hawks
-Keith and Montador -4 for the game
-Tyler Hall with a hat trick
-Nugent-Hopkins 5A +3
-Eberle and Gilbert with 1G, 3A

Hawks vs. Sharks (11/23/11)
Sharks win 1-0
-Hawks had 34 SOG, Sharks 21 SOG
-Hawks were 0 for 4 while Sharks were 1 for 4
-Demers was the only scorer for the game
-Sharks giveaways 14, Hawks 10
-Sharks 15 blocked shots, Hawks 10
-Niemi first shutout of the season

Hawks vs. Ducks (11/25/11)
Hawks win 6-5
-Hawks had 42 SOG, Ducks 28 SOG
-Hawks were 2 for 7 while Ducks were 1 for 3 on their power play
-Sharp with the hat trick and Toews with 2G, 3A
-Ducks outhit 29-20
-Ryan with 2G, 4 hits
-Hawks were down 4-2 at the end of the second and wound up scoring 4 in the 3rd
-This was the fourth straight year that the Blackhawks played at Anaheim on the day after Thanksgiving
-Chicago D Brent Seabrook returned to the lineup after missing four games because of an injured left leg. It was the longest stretch he sat out since his 2005-06 rookie season, when he missed 13 straight because of a sprained left knee

Hawks vs.Kings (11/26/11)
Hawks win 2-1
-Both Kings and Hawks were 0 for 2
-Both teams had 27 SOG
-Kings outhit 27-13
-Stoll with the lone goal for the Kings which was unassisted
-Toews and Brunette scored for the Hawks
-This was the 27th time Chicago has played back-to-back road games against Kings and Ducks, and only the fourth time the Blackhawks have won both. It also happened in March 1994, February 1996, and last November

Hawks vs. Coyotes (11/29/11)
Coyotes win 4-1
-Coyotes were 0 for 2 on their PP while Hawks were 0 for 1
-Hawks with 25 SOG, Yotes with 24 SOG
-Crawford was pulled in the 3rd after allowing 4 goals on 21 shots (wake up call)
-Sharp scores 42.9 seconds left in the game to end Smith shutout for the game
-Whitney with a goal, 2 assist, and 3 takeaways for the game
-Langkow, Doan, and Vrbata each with 1G, 1A
-Yotes +15, Hawks -15
- Chicago came out strong with four shot attempts in the first three minutes, but had only four more over the next period and a half

Hawks vs. Islanders (12/2/11)
Hawks win 5-4 (SO)
-Islanders were 2 for 5 on their PP while Hawks were 1 for 4
-Islanders had 41 SOG, Hawks 36 SOG
-Toews with a SHG and the lone scorer in the shootout
-Hawks were outhit 28-17
-Martin with 7 hits (most) for the game
-Jurcina 1A, 5 hits, and 5 blocked shots
-Seabrook 4 blocked shots, 1 hit, 1A
-Hawks outshot the Islanders 15-2 during the second period


Hawks vs. Blues (12/3/11)
Hawks win 5-2
-Hawks had 36 SOG while Blues had 25 SOG
-Hawks were 2 for 3 on their PP, Blues 0 for 4
-Emery gets the start for the Hawks
-Hossa with 2 goals....one on power play and other short-handed
-Kane and Keith with 2 assists each
-Sharp and Toews with 1 goal and l assist each
-Stewart and Perron were the lone scorers for the Blues
-Jackman with the most hits of the game at 5

Hawks vs. Coyotes (12/5/11)
Coyotes win 4-3 SO
-Hawks had 35 SOG, Yotes 27 SOG
-Hawks were 1 for 3 on their PP while Yotes were 0 for 1
-Toews with 2G, 1A, +2, and 88% at the dot
-Kane 1G, 1A, +2 for the game
-Yandle, Vrbata, and Torres were the scorers for the Yotes
-Hawks were 64% at the dot
-Quenneville and  Tippett were teammates from 1983-90 with the Hartford Whalers

Hawks vs. Islanders (12/8/11)
Hawks win 3-2 OT
-Islanders with 33 SOG while Hawks had 28 SOG
-Hawk were 1 for 3 on their PP while Islanders were 0 for 6
-Islanders had 27 hits for the game, Hawks with 16
-Islanders had 26 takeaways, Hawks 17
-Grabner score in the 3rd to tie up the game.
-Sharp scores in the OT for the GWG.

Hawks vs. Sharks (12/11/11)
Hawks win 3-2 OT
-Sharks had 37 SOG while Hawks had 34 SOG
-Hawks were 0 for 3 on their PP while Sharks were 0 for 2
-Hawks outhit Sharks 34-28
-Brunette score 1:06 left into the game for the Hawks to go into OT
-Sharp again scores the goal in OT. 

Hawks vs. Wild (12/14/11)
Hawks win 4-3 SO
-Hawks had 31 SOG while Wild had 30 SOG
-Hawk were 1 for 2 on their PP while Wild was 0 for 2
-Wild outhit Hawks 18-11
-Wild blocked 16 shots while Hawks 10
-Former Wild LW Andrew Brunette was shown on the scoreboard on the Blackhawks bench during a break in the first-period action. After acknowledgment by the public address announcer, the crowd gave him a loud ovation, and he responded with a wave and a smirk and a deep breath after he sat down


Overall
The team is turning it around a little bit. In the last 6 games the Hawks have been going over regulation time. They have only lost one out of all of those....surprisely winning in the shootout. Emery has gotten the nod again for tommorrow (12/16/11) making that his 4th start in a row. The defense keeps on struggling with no consistent....need a full 60 in front of the goalie. Thank goodness for the skilled guy up front. Special teams seems to be going into the right direction.....which means better chance of winning. I will be missing the game tommorrow so hopefully the Hawks get a W on the board.



Other related news in the NHL
Rink preparations begin at Citizens Bank Park

Flyers unveil 'special' Winter Classic jersey

Sidney Crosby's return a night to remember

Wild sign 51-yr-old goalie

HHOF members highlight Classic Alumni roster

Make-a-Wish Foundation of America honors Red Wings

Thomas, Toews, and Lupul are November's Three Stars

Broudreau latest NHL coach to land on feet quickly

November featured four NHL coaching changes

NHL vetern Grier announces retirement

Senators acquire Rob Klinkhammer from Blackhawks

Bure, Housley among 2012 IIHF Hall of Fame class

Governors adopt radical realignment plan

Radical realignment proved to be best options for multiple teams

Chelios, Suter, Tkachuck, Emrick, and Snider enter US hockey hall

A more dedicated Kane prepares for his closeup




Player appearances

Dave Bolland

Austin's Saloon & Eatery
481 Peterson Rd, Libertyville, IL 60048
Venue Phone: 847-549-1972

Tuesday, Jan. 37:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Join 670 The Score's Jay Zawaski and special guest Dave Bolland at Austin's Saloon in Libertyville for Bud Light Hockey Night in Chicago from 7-8:30pm. Get a behind-the-scenes look at your favorite hockey team, and also enter for your chance to win a pair of tickets to a future Blackhawks game in the Bud Light Legends Lounge! Brought to you by Bud Light - Here We Go!

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Event: NIKLAS HJALMARSSON (BLACKHAWKS) Where: Yorktown Mall - Highland Ave and Butterfield Rd. (Lombard, IL) Time: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM Import this event into your Outlook calendar Hockey Club Autograph Signing Saturday January 7, 2012 Chicago Blackhawk Star Defensemen Nicklas Hjalmarsson 3:00pm to 5:00pm Yorktown Center Butterfield and Highland Ave. Lombard, IL 60148 Use the Lucky Strike Lanes entrance $30.00 ANY ITEM One Free Inscription Photo Ops Available Merchandise will be available for purchase or bring your own item. Ticket Sales 630-627-1975/630-294-4207 http://www.sportsnewsshows.com/ Special for ALL CSAC Members: Free CSAC COA for all your Hjalmarsson items! Non-members may also buy COA's for $5 ea. CSAC will be on hand signing up new and renewing members, so stop by their table for your COA!

Circus road trip begins!

It's time for the circus road trip to begin.  First game will be on today vs. Canucks.  Hopefully the Hawks play much better than their last meeting loosing 6-2.  Bolland and Seabrook are the two that are injuried right now.  Both should be back by the end of the trip.  Hawks are 11-4-3.  They are currently ranked 1st in everything.  WOO HOO!!!  Here's a look back the last 14 games.


Top Leaders in each category
Goals-9 Toews
Assists-13 Kane
Points-19 Kane
+/- +13 Hossa -6 Bickell
Takeaways- 22 Toews
Hits- 39 Carcillo
Blocked shots-47 Seabrook
Giveaways-12 Hjalmarsson
FO%- 61% Toews
PIM- 32 Carcillo
PPG-3 Brunette
SHG-2 Bolland (1st in the league)
TOI-25:04 Keith


Overall as a team
Power play- Out of 68 oppportunities....Hawks have only scored 9 goals giving them an overall 13.2%.  They are ranked 24th in the league. 

Penalty Kill- Hawks have been shorthanded 55 times and have allowed 13 goals giving them an overall 76.4%.  They are ranked 25th in the league.

Goaltending-
Corey Crawford  8-4-2     GAA 2.77     SV% .905%
Ray Emery          3-0-1     GAA 2.70     SV% .905%

Offense- Hawks average 3.33 goals per game.....ranking them 4th in the league

Defense-Hawks allow 2.78 goals per game....ranking them 20th in the league

The good- The goals they score per game, goaltending
The bad-special teams....YIKES! Defense



Who's Hot
Patrick Kane-been playing really well this season.  Has 19 pts in 18 games.
Jamal Mayers-steps up when needed (5 major, 1 minor), 21 hits, 58.1% at the dot, 2G, 2A
Brent Seabrook-Leads in B/S, 33 hits, 1G, 6A, playing well so far this season
Nick Leddy-Def stepped up his game.  Knows where to position himself. 2G, 10A

Who's Not
Bryan Bickell-Great start but hasn't been playing that well of late...got scratched on 11/8
Sean O'Donnell-Hasn't played the last four games with Scott taking his place



Game stats
Hawks vs. Yotes (10/18/11)
Hawks win 5-2
-Hawks outshot the Yotes 35-16
-Hawks were 1 for 5 on their PP Yotes were 0 for 3
-Paul Bissonnette had the most hits for the game at 7
-Duncan Keith with +3 for the game 2A, and 2 B/S

Hawks vs. Avalanche (10/20/11)
Hawks win 3-1
-Avs won at the dot with an overall 57% to Hawks 43%
-Hawks were outhit 16-11
-Hawks had 20 B/S for the game with Seabrook leading with 6
-Toews with 1G, 1A, +3, 3 Takeaways
-O'Byrne with 1G, +1, 2 hits, and 5 blocked shots

Hawks vs. Avs. (10/22/11)
Avs win 5-4 (SO)
-Hawks outshot the Avs 38-24
-Hawks were 1 for 3 on their PP
-Avs outhit the Hawks 42-26
-Landeskog 2G, 6 hits
-Hossa 1G, 3 hits, 2 TK, 1 B/S

Hawks vs. Ducks (10/25/11)
Hawks win 3-2 SO
-Ducks 1 for 6 while Hawks 0 for 3 on PP
-Hawks won 54% at the dot
-Getzlaf 1G, 5 hits, 1 B/S, 1 TK, 50% at the dot
-Hossa 1G, 3 hits, 2 TK
-Kane and Toews score in the SO while Selanne scores for Ducks

Hawks vs. Hurricanes (10/28/11)
Canes win 3-0
-Canes giveaways 9 to Hawks 3
-Hawks blocked 15 shots while Canes blocked 20
-Cam Ward is the reason why the Canes won.....30 shots on goal, 1st shutout this season
-Sutter 1G, +2, 3 B/S

Hawks vs. Blue Jackets (10/29/11)
Hawks win 5-2
-Hawks were outhit 41-13
-Both teams didnt cash in on their PP (0 for 5)
-Hawks 55% at the dot
-Emery in goal for Hawks....Bolland with a shortie
-Mackenzie 1G, +2, 7hits (most in game), 1 takeaway
-Stalberg 2G, +2, 4 hits

Hawks vs. Predators (10/31/11)
Hawks win 5-4 OT
-Hawks 0 for 7 on their PP Preds 1 for 3
-Hawks 35 SOG, Preds 28 SOG
-Preds blocked 18 shots, Hawks 5
-Hawks were outhit 24-17
-Hawks were 62% at the dot
-Hornqvist 2G, 2 takeaways
-Kane 2G, 1A, +3, 1 hit

Hawks vs. Panthers (11/3/11)
Hawks win 3-2 SO
-Panthers outshot the Hawks 43-33
-Panthers gaveaway 10 to Hawks 3
-Hawks were outhit 20-14
-Toews 1G, 1 hit, 2 B/S, 59% at the dot
-Jovanowski 1G, +2, 3 hits, 1 B/S
-Kane is the lone scorer in the shootout

Hawks vs. Lightning (11/4/11)
Ligtning win 5-4 OT
-Hawks 1 for 2 on PP, Lightning 1 for 1
-Hawks were outhit 26-18
-Lightning blocked 21 shots, Hawks 13
-Sharp 2G, +1
-Stamkos 3G, +1, 2 hits

Hawks vs. Canucks (11/6/11)
Canucks win 6-2
-Canucks score 5PPG out of 6 chances, Hawks were 0 for 5
-Hawks blocked 18 shots, Canucks 8
-Hawks were outhit 26-20
-Henrik Sedin 1G, 3A
-Kruger 1G, +2, 1 blocked shot, 80% at the dot

Hawks vs. Blues (11/8/11)
Blues win 3-0
-Hawks outshot Blues 29-23
-Blues were 1 for 2 on their PP while Hawks were 0 for 4
-Halak with the shutout
-Oshie 1G, 1A, +2

Hawks vs. Blue Jackets (11/10/11)
Hawks win 6-3
-Hawks were 2 for 3 on their PP, BJ were 2 for 5
-Hawks outshot 36-30
-Hawks were outhit 37-16
-BJ were 57% at the dot
-Toews 2G, 1A, +3, 1 hit, 1 B/S, 1 Tkay
-Clitsome 2G, +1, 1 hit, 1 B/S

Hawks vs. Flames (11/11/11)
Hawks win 4-1
-Hawks outshot 31-25
-Hawks were 1 for 4 on their PP while Flames were 0 for 1
-Hawks were outhit 36-17
-Hawks had 10 Tkay to Flames 3
-Keith 1G, +2, 2 Tkay, 3 B/S
-Jokinen 1G, 2 hits

Hawks vs. Oilers (11/13/11)
Hawks win 6-3
-Hawks outshot the Oilers 35-25
-Hawks were 1 for 4 on their PP while Oilers were 1 for 3
-Eberle 1G, 1A, 1 hit, 1 Tkay
-7 Hawks players had 2pt games
-2 goals for Montador and Toews


Overall
The team is doing well despite their special teams.  Their PK was great at the beginning of the season but now it has taken a turn for the worst.  The PP has been horrible all season but of late...have scored a few PPG so hopefully that's the direction they keep on going.  Emery looked sharp in net vs. Flames.....that's the goaltender I know!  The other games he was kinda shaky but hopefully Razor is here whenever hes between the pipes.  Crawford didn't look on his game during the 3 game loosing streak.....but looked better vs. Oilers.....maybe he just needed the rest.  Certain players have started to step it up despite not a great start which is nice to see. The team has pretty much been outhit in all their games....time to start get physical Hawks.  Next game is versus Canucks....i'll prob miss the 1st but will be able to watch the rest. Should be a good game. 



In other related news around the league
Kessel, Lehtonen, Khabibulin are October's stars

Leafs to honor Sundin's No. 13

Statues for Mikita, Hull unveiled at United Center

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tzwfwp6xwIY&feature=player_profilepage
Patrick Kane Discover commericial

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=08bAl2bqb0w
Tim Thomas Discover commericial

Blue Jackets and Blues swap defenseman
Blues aquire Kris Russell from the Blue Jackets in exhange Nikita Nikitin

NHL announces 2012 All-Star Fan Balloting Sharp, Kane, Toews, Keith, Seabrook, and Hossa are your fellow Hawks on the All-Star Ballot

Blues fire Payne, hire Hitchcock
Only after 13 games.....YIKES!

NHL broadens international televison reach

Predators ink Rinne to seven-yr deal

Solider surprise puck drop
Pretty amazing what the Bruins did for a fellow soldier. 




Player Appearance



Viktor Stalberg
Cooking with the Blackhawks featuring Viktor Stalberg
Wed., Nov. 30, 4-6 p.m.
Meijer - 2253 N Richmond Rd, McHenry

Join us Wed., Nov. 30, at Meijer in McHenry for “Cooking with the Blackhawks” from 4-6 p.m. Blackhawks forward Viktor Stalberg will cook with Meijer Healthy Living Advisor, Maribel Alchin, from 4-4:30 and sign autographs from 4:30-6.

The first 200 people in line will receive a priority wristband that will ensure one autograph. Wristbands will be handed out starting at 2:00 p.m. One autograph per person. No posed photos please. Chicago Blackhawks player, date and time subject to change.


Stan Mikita
Stan Mikita "Forever a Blackhawk" Signing
Meet Blackhawks Ambassador Stan Mikita and pick up a signed copy of his new autobiography, "Forever a Blackhawk"!

• Sat., Nov. 12, 1 p.m. – Barbara's Bookstore (810 Village Center Dr., Burr Ridge)
• Thu., Nov. 17, 6:30 p.m. – Barnes & Noble (590 E. Golf Rd., Schaumburg)
• Sat., Nov. 19, 1 p.m. – Costco (9915 W. 159th St., Orland Park)
• Tue., Nov. 22, 6:30 p.m. – Bookstall (811 Elm St., Winnetka)
• Fri., Dec. 2 vs. NYI – United Center (Pregame, 1st and 2nd intermissions)
• Sun., Dec. 11 vs. SJ – United Center (Pregame, 1st and 2nd intermissions)

Dates and times are subject to change. No other items will be autographed during the signings.

Monday, Nov. 287:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Dave Bolland

Murhpy's Bleachers

3655 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60613Venue Phone: 773-281-5356

JOIN 670 THE SCORE'S JAY ZAWASKI and Dave Bolland.  GET A BEHIND-THE-SCENES LOOK AT YOUR FAVORITE HOCKEY TEAM, AND ALSO ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A PAIR OF TICKETS TO A FUTURE BLACKHAWKS GAME!  BROUGHT TO YOU BY ATLANTIS LIMOUSINE AND BUD LIGHT-HERE WE GO!          

John Scott

Wednesday, Nov. 30 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Binny's Beverage Depot          

69 Rand Road, Arlington Heights, IL

COME OUT TO MEET CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS DEFENSEMEN, JOHN SCOTT,  get his  AUTOGRAPH AND WHILE YOU'RE THERE ENTER FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A SPECIAL BLACKHAWKS PRIZE PACK WHICH INCLUDES A PAIR OF TICKETS TO AN UPCOMING CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS GAME, DINNER AT A DOWNTOWN RESTAURANT AND LIMO SERVICE TO AND FROM THE GAME PROVIDED BY CELEBRATION LIMO! BROUGHT TO YOU BY BUDLIGHT HERE WE GO!         

The first 4 games of the season 11'-12'

Hello Blackhawks fan....been a long off-season!  The Hawks have played four games so far and they are 2-1-1.  A couple of guys were missing from the line-up due to injuries but looks like all of them are back. Sharp played the first game of the season.  Stalberg came back last game and Benny got sent down to Rockford.  Do not worry.....Benny will be back!  Hossa (upper body) is the only one who is questionable for the next game but he did make the trip so he's going to play either against the Yotes and/or the Avs. 


Top Leader is each category
Goals- 3 Bolland
Assists-4 Kane
Points- 6 Kane
+/-  +3 Hossa, Montador, and Kane -3 Brunette
Takeaways- 8 Kane
Hits-15 Bickell
PIM-16 Sharp
FO%- 56.5 Kane (won 26 out of 46)
TOI- 25:50 Keith
Blocked shots 9 Seabrook & Hjalmarsson
Giveaways- 4 O'Donnell
PPG- 2 Brunette


Overall as a team
Power play- Hawks have only scored 2 goals out of 17 chances......YIKES!  They are 11.8% on their power play. 

Penalty Kill- Hawks penalty kill is  91.7%.  They have only given up 1 goal while being short-handed 12 times.  Pretty good!

Goaltending- In the four games the Hawks have played... Crawford has been good in 3 games with a 1.98 GAA and .934 SV% while Emery played one...he is 3.00 GAA and .900 SV%.  Emery needs some work and hopefully he will improve but don't have any complaints towards Crawford.

Offense- In the last four games,  the Hawks have averaged out 3.0 goals per game.

Defense-In the last four games, Hawks goals against is averaged of letting in 2.25 goals per game.


The good-PK, scoring, and goaltending
The bad-Power play and defense


Who's Hot
Patrick Kane-leads with points, assists, takeaways, and fairly well on the dot.
3rd line-Frolik, Bolland, and Bickell- great chemistry especially Bickell using the body

Who's Not
Patrick Sharp- I know you were hurt and was out for pre-season but you seem a step behind... What's up with the 16 penalty minutes already?!????
Jonathan Toews- well doesn't surprise me cause every season you start out slow


Game recaps
Hawks vs. Stars (10/7/11)
Stars win 2-1
There was no score after the 1st.  Goligoski opened the scoring at 59 seconds of the second period on a one-timer from the high slot.  Benn scored 3:58 left in the 2nd off a rebound.  The Hawks outshot the Stars 22-12 in the second period with 3 power plays but were not able to cash in on any.  Nick Leddy score the lone goal for the Hawks 13.6 seconds left in the game with six attackers but that was not enough to win the game.
-Hawks were outhit 37-19
-Hawks were -3 while Dall was +4 overall as a team
-Kane, Mayers, and Sharp were above 65% at the dot

Hawks vs. Stars (10/8/11)
Hawks win 5-2
Brunette scored the 1st Hawks goal on a rebound during a power play in the 1st period.  In the second,  Bolland scored a goal after he took a shot and got hit.  Toews who just came out of the box, had a breakaway, and scored to make it 3-0.  A little after a minute Fiddler scored a goal for the Stars with a very sharp angle lifting it over Crawford's shoulder.  Then in the 3rd, Sharp scored on a 2-on-1 breakaway during a delayed penalty.  Ott scored  a power-play goal midway through the third that cut it to 4-2 when Sheldon Souray's shot deflected in off him. Bolland had a empty-net goal to seal the win for the Hawks.
-Stars were 1 for 5 on their power play while Hawks were 1 for 7
-Sharp had 2 minor and 1 game misconduct giving him 14 penalty mintues
-Hawks were outhit again with 32-17
-Hawks were +15 overall and Stars were -16 overall
-Hawks won at the dot 58 to 42
-Former Hawks Jake Dowell and Jamal Mayers had a fight

Hawks vs. Jets (10/13/11)
Hawks win 4-3
Emery got the start for the Hawks.  Slater scored two goals early in the 1st to give the Jets a 2-0 lead.  Both goals were deflected and switched directions mid-air.  Brunette scored a power play goal off a rebound.  Then Kane scored on a one-timer from the right circle with a nice pass from Hossa.  In the second, Hossa scored 33 seconds into the period and Bolland tallied too.  Wellwood made up for his mis-hap on his breakaway by scoring 6 in a half let in the second.  The Hawks were able to hold off the Jets in the third and win the game. 
-Jets were 0 for 2 and Hawks were 1 for 3 on their power play
-Kane had a good game with 1G, 2A, 1 hit, 3 Tk, +2, and was 71% at the dot
-Hossa 1G, 1A, +2
-Carcillo first game since he was suspended from last season 1A, +2, 4 hits, 1 BS, and won his faceoff.
-At the dot Hawks were 59%
-Jets outhit the Hawks 34 to 20


Hawks vs Bruins (10/15/11)
Bruins win 3-2 SO
Bickell scored an unassisted goal late in the 1st.  The Bruins scored a short-handed goal just 1:33 in the second by Kelly.  Just 27 seconds after Horton's penalty expired, Kane scored a wrister past Thomas at 2:51 of the second.  In the third, Horton scored to tie up the game.  The game went into overtime and neither team score.  In the shootout, Toews, Kane, and Sharp did not score on Thomas but Seguin beat Crawford thru the five-hole. 
-Campbell and Mayers fought.
-Carcillo with the highest number of hits for the game at 8
-Thomas faced 37 SOG while Crawford faced 29 SOG
-Hjalmarsson had 4 blocked shots
-Both teams were 0 for 3 on their PP



Conclusion
The Hawks are okay.  They def need to work on some stuff.  Emery was shakey at times vs. Jets but he did his job and won the game.  Hopefully the power play can improve.... the Hawks need to cash in those opportunities more often.   Just wanting certain players to step it up cause you can tell by their game....they need to do something.  Coach Q needs to find some lines that will work cause the only one I've seen that has worked well together is the 3rd line besides Kane and Hossa.  The top two pairs on D need to be fixed.  Im not digging the defense showing up here and there and letting your goalie bail you out.  Time to play the full 60 and take advantage of the special teams. 

Can't wait for next game.  GO HAWKS!

Here's a video I took last season at Johnny's.

Toews with Mikey Haviland

LOVE IT!!

Dave Bolland...Hockey Night in Chicago

Recently, I went to a Dave Bolland appearance.  He was with Jay Zawaski from The Score 670am for the Bud Light Hockey Night in Chicago at Kenny's Irish Pub.  My friends and I arrived around 5ish eventhough the event didn't start til 7pm.  We got to sit up pretty close cause there was only another table taken and ordered some food/drinks.  Bolland arrived about 15 minutes before he was scheduled which was pretty sweet.  I like the guys who are early.....cause then they start early. 

Jay started the Q/A and encouraged fans to come on up and ask a question.   His favorite player watching when he was growing up was Brendan Shanahan.  It's a tough league to get in.  Line juggling will probably keep on happening as long as Coach Q does it (I don't really think he has a say in it).  Would like to get the Selke one day in the future.  Eventually, my shy self went up there.

Here's me asking a question to Bolly

I asked him about how come you chose to be a center....although I don't think it came out that way.  He's been playing center for a long time....he tried wing but really wasn't his thing.  He didn't like waiting so went back to center.  He's on the third line as a checking role so he will keep on doing what he's doing.  Another question I had asked was any goals this season or something you want to work on.  He said a whole bunch of goals, penalty minutes, assists, and maybe Selke.  It was pretty funny how he answered it.   Just try to play every game as best as he can. 

Here's a t-shirt I got for asking a ?

So once the Q/A was done....the fans could line up and get an autograph.  I got Bolly to sign my puck from last season playoffs and got a free pic of him.

Overall...I had a lot of fun.  I got another pic with Bolland, hung out with cool people, ate some food, and have a few drinks.  Hopefully I'll be able to attend another one of these with a different player.  As always....GO HAWKS!

Back-up goalie and Hawks players appearance in Oct. 2011

Well its only a couple of days til the actual hockey season starts....Woot Woot!  Lets drop the puck! 

So the big news yesterday was the signing of Ray Emery who signed a one year $600,000 (one way) contract and assigned Salak (G) to Rockford.  Ive been rooting for Emery ever since he was given a tryout for the Hawks.  I will admit he didnt have that great of a camp...according to Tim Sassone...Emery was 4.54 GAA and .813 SV% in 119 minutes while Salak was 1.91 GAA and .929 SV% in 124 minutes of play. You would think Salak would be the back-up but I did find it interesting that they didnt announce it after the game yesterday which had me thinking they were in talks with Emery.  Im glad for Ray.  Remember people...hes a back-up so that means hes only going to play 20-25 games this season.  He will be a great presence for Crawford especially with being a veteran and knowing what it takes to win games in the playoffs going to the SCF a few seasons back.  Plus Salak needs the experience out in Rockford.  He would be playing close to what Crawford is going to play instead of sitting.  He will take the Icehogs far this season especially with all the guys that Ive seen in the pre-season.  Even if things dont work out with Ray Emery, they can always call up Alexander Salak.                                                                 

Latest news from today!
-Patrick Sharp will be playing on Friday!  WOO HOO! YEAH SHARPY! 
-Stan Bowman recieved an extension through 2016
-Brandon Saad signs a 3-yr entry level deal
-Stalberg wiil start on IR
-Ben Smith was back on the ice but with no contact
-Bolland is day to day with an upper body injury
-Morin was sent down to Rockford today

Here are some upcoming signings that are happening.

Dave Bolland            

Join 670 The Score Jay Zawaski and Dave Bolland at Cubby Bear North in Lincolnshire for Bud Light Hockey Night in Chicago on Tues Oct 4th

From 7-8:30pm

Location 21661 N. Milwaukee Ave

Lincolnshire, IL 60069

847-541-4700      

Stan Mikita
Will be doing a book signing "Forever a Blackhawk"  at Andersons Bookshop in Downers Grove on Thurs Oct 6th.

From 6:30-8:00 pm
Location 5112 Main St
Downers Grove, IL
630-963-2665
Here is more information about the signing.



Brent Seabrook
I posted this at the last blog but here's a reminder Brent Seabrook ICE celebrity Bowl on Sun Oct 16th. 
http://www.innercityeducation.org/brent-seabrook-celebrity-ice-bowl.aspx

Another signing that he is doing is PNC bank on Tues Nov 1st.  I haven't been able to find anything online but one of you guys could probably call the place and confirm it. 

When Tues Nov 1st from 6-8pm
Where PNC bank
19 W Golf Rd
Arlington Heights, IL 60005
(847) 981-4300



Dan Carcillo
When: Sunday, October 23, from 4:30 - 6:00 pm
Where: At Cubby Bear North located at 21661 N. Milwaukee Ave in Lincolnshire
Cost: Only $30 per autograph, or two (2) signatures for $50. You can bring your own items to be signed, and merchandise will be available for purchase at the event for signing.

In addition, there are VIP tickets available for a Question/Answer session with Dan Carcillo prior to the public signing. For only $75 per VIP ticket you and your guest (1) will be part of a small group Q&A session with Carcillo starting at 4:00 pm prior to the public signing. Your VIP ticket also entitles you to an appetizer buffet, one (1) signature and you will be part of the first group in line for the public signing. Your guest may also purchase signature tickets and join you in the first signing group. This is your chance to ask what it's like to play against the Blackhawks, and for the Blackhawks. And what is it like to play with stars like Kane and Toews?

***VIP tickets are limited and can only be purchased in advance. Public signing tickets are also available in advance, and all advance tickets are numbered and guarantee a signature. To purchase in advance call Auction Merchandise Source (AMS) at 847-913-0177 or email AMShelspeople@gmail.com. Dropoffs are also available.

Proceeds benefit the Lexi Kazian Foundation, a non-profit foundation dedicated to improving the comfort and quality of life for children with special needs http://www.helpingfromheaven.org

Open practices Here's a link to the schedule
DATES AND TIMES SUBJECT TO CHANGE ON SHORT NOTICE Open practices at Johnny's IceHouse West (2550 W. Madison) usually start at 11 a.m.

Sun., Oct. 16

Sun., Oct. 23

Mon., Oct. 24

Thu., Oct. 27

That is all that I know of.  I'll probably hit the Seabrook one if he has it and possibly Carcillo cause he is not on my lampshade....but who knows.  I may not go to any.  Can't wait for the season to start on Thurs and for the Hawks to play on Friday.  Let's go HAWKS! 

Training camp, lineup for tonights game, and etc.

This past Saturday was the Blackhawks Training Camp Fest. They offered 5k run, 10k roller race, 3-on-3 street hockey tournament, and bags. My friends and I ended up getting their super early so that we could get a Patrick Sharp bobblehead. Here is what it looks like

Doesn't exactly look like him but it's Sharpie!!!! Patrick Sharp did show up for the event in his street clothes and Edzo did interview him with some questions. Here's a couple pics!

Throughout the event....Pat Foley and Eddie had interviewed different players. I was excited to see all the players but especially Andrew Brunette.....luv him! The Hawks signed him as a free agent this off-season. Here's a few pics of him!

All in all was good the see players that will make the team and others headed to Rockford.   Here's a blog that has more detail from the Training Camp Festival   He knows what he's talking about with his analysis!  



So tonight will be the first pre-season game for the Blackhawks against the Edmonton Oilers. It will be streamed on http://www.chicagoblackhawks.com/   I will be missing the game but the players that will be playing tonight will be

Forwards
Beach, Danault, Jimmy Hayes, Kruger, Mayers, McNeill, Olesz, Saad, Smith, Stalberg, and both Toews

Defensemen
Fahey, Lavin, Leddy, Lepisto, Motador, Scott, and Stanton

Goalies
Ray Emery and Alexander Salak

Everyone is wondering who is going to be the backup goalie between Emery and Salak.  I'm pulling for Emery.  He's a lil crazy but he does has the experience and last season came back after a hip surgery.  But if Salak gets it...hope the best for him! 

The following Hawks have already been cut from the roster F Mirko Hoefflin & Ludvig Rensfeldt and G Macmillan Carruth, Johan Mattson, & Kent Simpson. 



In other related news for the Hawks
Hawks will have open practices for the public at Johnny's Icehouse West (2550 W. Madison) before the season begins.  Dates and times are subject to change on short notice.

Tues Sept 27th 11:00 am
Sun Oct 2nd 9:00 am
Mon Oct 3rd 11:00 am
Tues Oct 4th 11:00 am
Wed Oct 5th 11:00 am

If I were you I would take full advantage of this cause the Bulls might not have a season so looks like it less and less practices at Johnny's. 



Brent Seabrook and Inner-City Education have teamed up again for the 4th Annual Celebrity Ice Bowl.  There is a new location this year which is at Lucky Strike by Navy Pier.  The prices are anywhere between $100 and $1,000 per person depending on what experience you would like.  Here is more details!


Lastly if anyone has NHL network, you can watch a whole bunch of pre-season games...including the Hawks vs. Peguins on Thursday.  Here are more dates!


The pre-season starts today for the Blackhawks.  WOO HOO!  Let's go HAWKS!

A tribute to all the hockey players that passed away this off-season. You all will be missed!

The NHL had a very hard off-season with a bunch of hockey players passing away. Derek Boogaard, Wade Belak, Ryan Rypien, and the plane crash of the KHL team Locomotiv. One player and one crew member had survied the crash...unfortunely Alexander Galimov (the lone hockey player) had passed away on Sept 12 while Alexander Sizov (crew member) had been transfered out of the ICU and will make a full recovery. Here are a few videos that pay tribute to those that have been lost. Here's a video that was made by GalilGade's Channel All of the hockey players will not be forgotten and may they rest in peace!

Long off-season

Not much has happened since the last time I wrote a blog for the Blackhawks.


Carcillo and Brunette had a press conference.  Here are the videos! 








The TV national schedule came out with the Blackhawks having 12 exclusive appearance.

Jordan Hendry was given a training camp tryout for the Minnesota Wild.  Wish him the best of luck! 

Blackhawks sign Brandon Segal to a one-yr contract.

Ryan Johnson was given a training camp tryout with the Detroit Red Wings. 

In other news in the NHL
Unfortunetly there were two more NHL players that passed away this off-season.  Rick Rypien who was only 27 and Wade Belak at 35 who just recently retired.  Here are a few statements from their respected teams. Canucks statement, Jets statement, and Nashville statement.  Here is also what Former teammates and foes remember of Rick Rypien and Former teammates remember Wade Belak.  Just a tradegy of unforturne news.  Just remember that its not because they are enforcers but each person has demons that they have to battle every day.  Don't even suggest of getting rid of the fighting because if you do then looks like more dirty hits will come!  Here's a link to understanding more of the role as enforcer according to Cam Janssen

Former Rangers caption Chris Drury retires from the NHL.

San Jose Logan Couture agrees to 2yr, 5.75 mil extenstion

Former Hawks player Dustin Byfuglien gets arrested for BWI.  I gotta admit....this is HILARIOUS!  I can't believe how much Buff has gained.....if you know me I'm pretty sensitive when it comes to weight but when it's part of your job to be fit.....YIKES!  286.....WOWZERS!  Hopefully he'll go into training camp being ready to play hockey. 

Today the Winnepeg Jets revealed their new jerseys for the upcoming season

Tommorrow Sidney Crosby will be holding a news conference at 12:30 ET....OH JOY....you see me excited about that.....NOT!
 
I will be attending the Blackhawks Training Camp on the 17th so if you are there....let me know!  Til next time!

Up to date news

Sorry, haven't been on here a while.  Don't have a computer so it's hard to write these up now.  I'm just going to give a brief overview. 

The Hawks acquired defenseman Steve Montador from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for a seventh round draft pick in either the 2012 or 2013 National Hockey League Entry Draft.

When July 1st hit, Hawks agreed to terms with forwards Andrew Brunette, Jamal Mayers, Brett McLean, Dan Carcillo, and defenseman Sean O’Donnell on one-year contracts.

Viktor Stalberg signed a 2yr contract before hitting the arbitration hearing.

The Hawks have extended the contracts of radio broadcasters John Wiedeman and Troy Murray through the conclusion of the 2014-15 season on WGN Radio 720.

Frolik signed a 3yr contract before his arbitration date and Sami Lepisto signed a 1yr contract. 

Hawks let Campoli walk away.

Kane goes under successful wrist surgery after injuring it during the off-season training in Buffalo.

Hawks agree a 5yr extention on Patrick Sharp.  WOO HOO!!!

Other news
-Shea Weber (Preds) was awarded $7.5 million thru an arbitrator meeting for the upcoming season.....YIKES!

-Ray Emery is given a tryout for the Hawks come training camp time

-USA hockey Hockey Hall of Fame honorees are defensemen Chris Chelios and Gary Suter, forward Keith Tkachuk, Philadelphia Flyers founder and owner Ed Snider and broadcaster Mike "Doc" Emrick.

-Former Edmonton Oilers coach Craig MacTavish was hired Monday as coach of the Chicago Wolves.

-Zach Parise signs a 1 yr contract with the New Jersey Devils to avoid his arbitration hearing.

-Kris Draper, Patrick Lalime, Chris Osgood retire.




I probably forgot a lot more but oh well.....hopefully I'll have more time to write another one of these and maybe a computer.  Peace out hockey fans!

Whatcha goin do....come July 1st?!?!

The 2011 NHL draft was on Friday June 24^th (just 1^st round) and Saturday June 25^th.  The Hawks had the 18^th pick of the draft which they selected Mark McNeil (C) from Prince Albert Raiders (WHL).  He had 30A and 50 pts. in 45 games.  Here’s more info on the Hawks first pick of the draft. 

Then it was announced that Hawks had acquired the 26^th overall pick from Washington in exchange for Troy Brouwer.  The Hawks selected Phillip Danault (C) from Victoriaville Tigres (QMJHL).  He had 20G and 37A in 53 games.  He brings passion to every shift.

Brouwer’s cap hit was 1.025 mil.  He will be a RFA come July 1^st and is due a raise.  He only registered 36 points this season but did lead the team with 262 hits.  I know a few of my friends aren’t going to like this blog but here it is Troy Brouwer is excited to join Washington Capitals

Later on that night, it was announced that Brian Campbell (D) was going to the Florida Panthers and Hawks acquired forward Rostislav Olesz.  Campbell waived his no trade clause to reunite with his former Chicago GM Dale Tallon.  Back in 2008, Dale had wooed Campbell to sign a hefty contract to the Hawks with a 7.142 mil cap hit over 8yrs.  Now Dale worked his magic again and Campbell has followed.  Here's a great article of how GM Tallon sells Campbell on joining Panthers

On the second day of the Draft, Hawks had 9 picks in rounds 2 thru 7.  In the second round, Hawks selected Adam Clendening (D) from Boston University who was 36^th overall.  He had 26 pts in 39 games.  For the 2^nd pick in round 2 Hawks selected Brandon Saad (LW) from Saginaw Spirit (OHL) who was 43^rd overall.  He had 27G, 28A in 59 games.  In the 3^rd round...Hawks once again had 2 picks.   The 1^st pick was Michael Paliotta (D) from USNTDP U-18 who was 70^th overall.  He had12 assists and 71 PIM for 47 games.  The second pick was Klas Dahlbeck (D) from Linkoping (Swedish Elite League) who was 79^th overall.  In the 4^th round, Hawks picked Maxim Shalunov (RW) from Chelyabinsk (Russian Minor Hockey League) who was 109^th overall.  He had 22G, 14A, 42PIM in 39 games.  In the 5^th round, Hawks picked Andrew Shaw (C) from Owen Sound Attack (OHL) who was 139^th overall.  He had 22G, 32A, +17, and 135 PIM in 66 games.  In the 6^th round, Hawks picked Sam Jardine (D) from Camrose Kodiaks (AJHL) who was 169^th overall.  The last round (7^th) Hawks had two picks again.  In the 1^st pick they selected Alex Broadhurst (C) from Green Bay Gamblers (USHL) who was 199^th overall.  He had 13G, 20A, +15, in 55 games.  The second pick was Johan Mattsson (G), Sodertalje who was 211^th overall.  He played in 29 games with a .930 save percentage and 2.62 GAA. 

-Those are your Hawks Draft picks for this year. 

On Monday 6/27/10, Tomas Kopecky was traded to the Florida Panthers for a 7^th round draft pick.  Rumor has it that, according to Tim Sassone of the DH, Kopecky wanted double of what he was making (1.2 mil) after a career high 15 goals and 42 points....REALLY?!  I hate to say this but to be really honest, Kopecky you are nothing special without Hossa.  Let’s see how well you do in Florida....but then again he might do great....who knows but I do know this.....having the worse minus rating and one of the highest minor penalties (which could have been avoided) this past season are a few thing you should work on next season. 

So now comes the question of what will happen once July 1^st hits....who will Stan Bowman sign??  I think the 1^st thing you need to do is find a great D-man....then everything else should fall into place. Next would be the depth 3^rd and 4^th lines.

So the NHL raised the salary cap to 64.3 million this coming 2011-2012 season.  Right now according to Capgeek we have 16 players signed with about 14 million to spare.  The players that will become free agents if they don’t sign by July 1^st will be Frolik, Stalberg, Dowell, Pisani, Johnson, Campoli, Hendry, and Turco.  All of the players that need to re-sign are all replaceable.  Turco and Hendry....are def O-U-T.  Turco was just here for one season and now we have Alexander Salak who signed a two yr deal that will be the back-up for Crawford.  Hendry....I know coach didn’t like you but you were injured at the end of Feb so more in likely you are out.  Pisani....I don’t see you coming back either.  You didn’t impress me last season so im okay with you not here.  I would like to see Johnson back....has the veteran experience and can take face-offs.  Dowell you were the only player that didn’t get a qualifying offer that’s restricted so looks like you’re gone too eventhough I like you!  Stalberg....you have the speed and size.....just need the confidence.  Campoli and Frolik will depend on how much money they want. 

Now onto Brouwer and Campbell.  Troy...i like you....you have the size and the offensive ability although I think the Hawks were lookin’ for more in you this past season. Lead the Hawks with hits so hopefully you can bring that to the Caps.  You were someone I wanted re-signed but looks like Bickell or Benny will take your spot. 

I got to say so far since the Draft, the Campbell trade was a surprise to me.  I usually don’t get surprised that much but WOW!  I will say that Campbell is the biggest lost for the Hawks for next season (2011-2012).  I know everyone hates his contract with the 7.1 cap hit for the next 5 season but take that contract away and look at the actual player.  He’s a very skilled D-man.  He knows how to move the puck, get involve with the plays, great on the power play, puts up the numbers, and very consistent.  When Campbell was injured....you could tell that the D wasn’t as good.  Remember when he came back sooner when the Hawks were on their way to win the Cup. It’s kinda funny how it’s deja vu all over again with him going to Florida.  Going to one of the worst teams in the league with a horrible power play and Tallon hoping that other players in the league will want to go to the Panthers .  I wish him the best of luck with his new team.  Thank you Campbell for helping the Hawks bring the Cup back to Chicago.  You will not be forgotten. 

So let’s talk about the D for a second.  As of right now we have Keith and Seabrook on the top line......which hopefully they improve cause last season was a HOT MESS for both of them.  Then you have Hjalmarsson and Leddy for the 2^nd pair....right?!  Niklas doesn’t play as well without Campbell so this will be his true test come this season.  Leddy is a youngin....hopefully he gets better.  Then all we have left is John Scott.  That doesn’t give us that much depth on the blue line.  When it comes to the forwards....same problem.....so it goes back to the whole Stan....whatcha goin do come July 1^st?? 

In other related news....here’s a few things that has happen around the league. 

-Winnipeg named their team Jets.

-The Flyers have gone a lil crazy....hopefully it benefits them in the long run.  The Flyers traded their caption Mike Richards to the Kings in exchange for Wayne Simmonds, Brayden Schenn, and a draft pick.  Then they traded Jeff Carter to Blue Jackets in exchange for Jakub Voracek and two 2011 draft picks.  That would be like the Hawks trading Toews and Kane.  Those two guys are the face of the Flyers....well i guess no more.  Then get this they sign goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov to a 9yr, 51 million contract.  Who signs a goaltender for that long?!  What if he sucks in three years??

-Devin Setoguchi signed a 3yr, 9 million contract with the Sharks.  The very next day...he’s traded to the Minnesota Wild.  Wilson (GM for Sharks)....you got issues!

That is all for right now!  Peace out Hawks fans!

Report card for the Hawks season (10'-11') excluding the playoffs

Alrighty, well finally got to write a report card for the Hawks. Im not including the post-season.....that will be next blog. It’s been a crazy month and keeps on getting crazy so hopefully things will turn around.  I did it differently by putting it in categories.  You will see that in the disappointing season....i kinda went a lil crazy but HEY....it’s the truth!  Some may agree....some might not but this is what I believe how each player has played this past season (10-11’)

Great season

Patrick Sharp-What can I say....u had a great post-season last year and you brought it to this season with your 34 goals(1^st) and 37 assists.

Corey Crawford-Wow....this is your first season in the NHL.  I can only imagine what you bring the next three seasons.  You are the reason why we won half the games this season.

Brian Campbell-The most consistent D-man this season with your +28.

Jonathan Toews-Although you did have a slow start... you def picked it up towards the middle of season.  Lead the Hawks in point with 76, takeaways, and faceoffs.

Nice surprise

Nick Leddy-This was his first season in a Hawks uniform and only played 46 games after being recalled from Rockford.  Sure he made rookie mistakes but he’ll only get better. 

Troy Brouwer-Finally it is nice to see ya use your body....LOL....262 hits for the season.  Time for the Hawks to resign you!

Bryan Bickell-This was Bickell’s first full season as a Hawk....17 goals and 20 assists.  3^rd on the team with 178 hits. 

Ryan Johnson-Averaged 63.1 at the dot for only 34 games.  The end.

Tomas Kopecky-This was his best season.

Not bad

Marian Hossa-Eventhough you were injured....not bad for the season with being 4^th in total points.  Interesting stat.....Hossa only did 4 faceoffs and won 3 of them.

Niklas Hjalmarrson-Def had a slow start...but picked it up!  Lead the team with 166 blocked shots.

Dave Bolland-I know that you probably don’t like ur nickname but you def know how to get under hockey players skin.....I LIKE IT!

Jake Dowell-Eventhough coach don’t like you.....I DO!  You do the little things that don’t get recognition.....i appreciate you!

Jordan Hendry-Ur another guy that coach doesn’t like.  Such a bummer that you got a torn ACL and ur up for contract...but you had a decent short season.

Marty Turco-I don’t care how many people hate you.....i like you.  Sure you lost the #1 position but i did enjoy you moving the puck....too bad you never had a team in front of you.

Alright

Fernando Pisani

John Scott- You did your job.....got to say this was a GREAT FIGHT!

Chris Campoli-Came in right at the trade deadline...like him but would like to see more.

Michael Frolik-Well you had a slow start coming from Florida (Feb) but def picked it up

Disappointing season

Most of you might not like it cause I will be very harsh but whatever...I expect more from these players. The next three guys you see....you have to compare them from the previous season to understand where I’m coming from.  Oh....who do I pick first??  I’ll go with Duncan....cause at least he admit to it.  I don’t know about the other two. 

Duncan Keith-What can I say....VERY disappointing season and you’re one of my favorites on the team.  Every game I was waiting for Mr. Norris Trophy winner to show up but all i got see was turnover, turnover, turnover (83 takeaways....most on the team)!  Sure you got 38 assists but you only got 7 goals.  What happen to shooting the puck....oh wait....that was probably blocked!  What about having your man covered.....as Edzo would say D on F....F on D....that was a missing piece too!  Your plus/minus rating was -1.....the previous three seasons you were +21, +33, and +30.  I could go on and on but Duncan...you better get your shit together!

Patrick Kane-I know he shouldn’t be in this category but he is.  He averaged a point per game but man what happen??  It was like he appeared for a few games and then disappear.  Lots of time, I wondered where he was.  I know he got hurt but even after that Im like where’s the guy that would be able to plow thru a player or two???  You were more stronger last season.  I will say this though.....for all the Kane haters out there.....GET OVER IT!  You are stupid to even consider trading him....he’s got the best vision on the ice for the Hawks and is a threat to every team when it comes to shooting the puck!

Brent Seabrook-I got to say once again....what happen???  You were pretty consistent the beginning of the season and then you fell apart.  I mean you were something special last season hence the best pair in the league....this season I was like WTF!  Where’s the long passes you make that no one else does consistently....oh wait the other team got it!  What about using the body...sure you got 227 hits...it must have been the games that I wasn’t able to watch!  I mean where was the coverage??  I will say this though.....it was nice to see you get involved with the play offensively! 

Viktor Stalberg-You are nice to look at and that’s about it!  Oppsy...did i say that out loud.  You got the speed but need some work.  This is your first full season in the NHL so hopefully you can get more experience and be able to shoot the puck more and create plays with some checks. 

Jack Skille-Peace out!  You got traded to Florida to reunite with the former GM that drafted you but you didn’t do much here.  I’ve always liked you but a word of advice...you might want to keep your mouth shut.  Your roll was 4^th line.

Jassen Cullimore-Played for the Hawks for a bit before going back down to Rockford

Nick Boynton-Went on waivers and was picked up by Philly

N/A

Marcus Kruger

Ben Smith

So that’s it.  I’m going to write a blog about the post-season and who on the Hawks will be a free agent.  Not sure if I will combine them or do it separtely.....anyways....til next time!  Oh BTW......GO BRUINS!