The Chicago Blackhawks were dealt a crushing blow by the Anaheim Ducks over the weekend, suffering back-to-back losses of six goals or more that sent shockwaves through the NHL.
The most lopsided game came on Sunday, as the Ducks romped to a 7-1 victory. The numbers tell it all – a staggering 50-11 advantage in scoring chances and a 28-3 edge in high-danger chances, with the Ducks' dominance being simply too much for the Blackhawks to handle.
The Blackhawks' goalie, Arvid Soderblom, put up a valiant effort with 46 saves but ultimately couldn't stem the tide. On the other hand, his own goal differential plummeted from plus-seven to minus-five in a matter of two games, leaving the team's season prospects looking precarious.
Coach Jeff Blashill was left to lament what he called "two worst games of the year," adding that they were both inexcusable given the travel distances involved. With another back-to-back on the horizon next weekend, it's clear that the Blackhawks will have to figure out a way to bounce back from these losses if they hope to stay competitive.
Blashill acknowledged that confidence can take a hit after such drubbings, but he emphasized that this is a league where mental toughness matters. "You've got to get out of here and move on," he said. But for now, it seems like the Blackhawks will be left with some tough lessons to learn – particularly if they fail to bounce back from these disastrous weekend outings.
The most lopsided game came on Sunday, as the Ducks romped to a 7-1 victory. The numbers tell it all – a staggering 50-11 advantage in scoring chances and a 28-3 edge in high-danger chances, with the Ducks' dominance being simply too much for the Blackhawks to handle.
The Blackhawks' goalie, Arvid Soderblom, put up a valiant effort with 46 saves but ultimately couldn't stem the tide. On the other hand, his own goal differential plummeted from plus-seven to minus-five in a matter of two games, leaving the team's season prospects looking precarious.
Coach Jeff Blashill was left to lament what he called "two worst games of the year," adding that they were both inexcusable given the travel distances involved. With another back-to-back on the horizon next weekend, it's clear that the Blackhawks will have to figure out a way to bounce back from these losses if they hope to stay competitive.
Blashill acknowledged that confidence can take a hit after such drubbings, but he emphasized that this is a league where mental toughness matters. "You've got to get out of here and move on," he said. But for now, it seems like the Blackhawks will be left with some tough lessons to learn – particularly if they fail to bounce back from these disastrous weekend outings.