There would be no dramatic comeback this time around. The Blackhawks looked nothing like the rallying team Saturday night or the team that beat Calgary at home on Tuesday. There weren’t any real chances to get in the game as the Hawks were heavily outshot from the start, and seemed listless for long stretches of the game.
Here are a couple thoughts following the Blackhawks 2-0 loss to the Senators.
Blackhawks Giveth and Taketh Away
Just when the Blackhawks seemed to get something going, it would suddenly be neutralized and over before it could actually start. Lukas Reichel chance driving the net? Smothered. Offensive chance in the zone? Snuffed out by a penalty.
Heavy shots at the net? Blocked or wide. For everything that went well against San Jose in that comeback bid, nothing could get going against Ottawa. The Blackhawks may have been outshot by Calgary, but they still were able to stay with their structure as they had their 3-1 victory.
Thursday night saw a Blackhawks team that was its own worst enemy and as a result, they really couldn’t find a way to get anything going.
Petr Mrazek Deserved Better
Another game, another strong performance by Petr Mrazek. But it’s a moot point when goal support isn’t there. One of the toughest aspects for the season is that Mrazek’s has been dynamite all season long–a type of season that does wonders for a playoff bound team. Obviously, that’s not the Blackhawks this season.
It’s fair to wonder then–should the Blackhawks infuse the roster with more scoring talent next season–how that tips the scales for the team’s success. A stellar goalie with the ability to steal games can do wonders for success and team confidence. Early in his career, Mrazek was known for stealing games for a Detroit Red Wings team that was huffing and puffing its way into the playoffs. Mrazek was clutch and it wasn’t until injuries began derailing his efforts that the narrative shifted slightly.
The Mrazek seen this season has been the one from earlier in his career–perhaps even better due to having to carry the Blackhawks even more. If they get similar results next season with what should be an improved roster–it will be interesting to see what could result. Playoffs may be a reach, but more competitive games with a few stolen ones may very well shift the narrative again.
Follow Nate on Twitter
More must-reads: