NHL Countdown
The excitement is building as we're just a day away from the NHL's return to action. Tomorrow night promises a thrilling lineup with eight games on the schedule, leading up to the Chicago Blackhawks' face-off against the Nashville Predators on Thursday. Let's dive into the latest buzz, from Olympic injury updates to trade whispers in the Pacific Northwest.
Blackhawks Buzz
The Blackhawks hit the ice for an extended practice session yesterday, clocking in at about an hour and 20 minutes. The team focused on 3-on-3 and 6-on-5 scenarios, crucial yet often overlooked aspects during the regular season grind. They're taking a break today before ramping up for a standard practice tomorrow, then it's off to Nashville to kickstart their season on Thursday.
Coach Jeff Blashill shared some good news about Wyatt Kaiser. The young defenseman is expected back on the ice soon and might join the team on their upcoming road trip. His injury, fortunately, coincided with the Olympic break, minimizing his time away from the game.
In other updates, Connor Bedard's response to Team Canada's narrow miss for gold has fans curious, especially after he watched the action from Chicago.
Last night, discussions in the Second Balcony covered a range of topics: Team USA's gold medal wins, Gavin Hayes' impressive season, and the Blackhawks' trade deadline strategies.
Despite some fan disappointment over reports that the Blackhawks aren't eyeing Gavin McKenna, improvements in his game haven't gone unnoticed by the team. However, it's uncertain if he'll be available when they make their pick.
Blackhawks Historical Highlights
- 1968: Stan Mikita netted his 250th goal against the Los Angeles Kings, becoming the third player in team history to reach this milestone.
- 1972: Eric Nesterenko played his 1,000th game for the Blackhawks, marking the occasion with an assist in a tough 5-3 loss to the Buffalo Sabres.
- 1988: Denis Savard hit two milestones in a 6-4 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, playing his 600th NHL game and setting a franchise record with his seventh shorthanded goal of the season.
- 2013: Andrew Shaw's lone goal secured a 1-0 shutout against the Blue Jackets, extending the Blackhawks' record point streak to 18 games.
- 2015: Patrick Kane's season was disrupted by a left clavicle injury, but it allowed the Blackhawks to make strategic moves at the trade deadline, leading to Kane's early return for the playoffs.
NHL News and Notes
The Dallas Stars have placed Mikko Rantanen on injured reserve following a lower-body injury at the Olympics. While he's doubtful for their first game back, there's optimism for a return by February 27.
The Winnipeg Jets are facing a setback with Josh Morrissey expected to miss significant time due to an upper-body injury. Though details are scarce, there's hope he might join the team on their road trip.
In Vancouver, the Canucks are navigating turbulent waters. After last year's locker room drama and trading Quinn Hughes, they're now considering using their cap space to acquire assets, a strategy similar to the Blackhawks' 2022 move with the Maple Leafs.
The Buffalo Sabres' rise from the bottom of the Eastern Conference to a playoff spot is a story of resilience. They're set to welcome back key players Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen and Josh Norris as they return to action.
NHL Birthday Roll Call - Feb. 24
Celebrating today are Mike Vernon, Brian Savage, Alex Kovalev, Wojtek Wolski, Jordan Spence, Zakhar Bardakov, and Zachary Bolduc. Happy Birthday to these hockey greats!