Blackhawks Blown Out Again in Final Game Before Winter Classic
The Last Straw
The Blackhawks were blown out for the second time in three days Sunday after suffering that fate only once in their first 35 games.
The ejection of forward Tyler Bertuzzi in the second period permanently shifted the momentum in the Hawks’ 5-1 loss to the Stars, who took the lead 12 seconds into the ensuing five-minute power play and never looked back.
A Tough Streak
The Hawks have been outscored 11-3 in their last two games — they lost to the Sabres 6-2 on Friday — and will head into the Winter Classic on Tuesday in ugly form. Before the holiday break, a 6-3 loss Oct. 22 to the Canucks had been the only game in which they weren’t in striking distance in the third period.
Player Reactions
‘‘It’s been tough after the break,’’ forward Teuvo Teravainen said. ‘‘A couple of really bad games. Pretty disappointing.’’
Fans were bewildered to see Seth Jones and T.J. Brodie on the top defensive pair, and their struggles continued. Jones was a minus-three and Brodie a minus-two. Interim coach Anders Sorensen later admitted the two ‘‘could be better.’’
Bertuzzi’s Surge
Aside from his ejection, Bertuzzi has been a bright spot recently, arguably benefiting more than any Hawk from the coaching change and all it has brought. The extra offensive-zone possession time gives him more opportunities to get set up in the crease.
Bertuzzi has nine points — including six goals — in 11 games under Sorensen after notching an assist on Connor Bedard’s goal in the first period.
Winter Classic Anticipation
The Hawks will head outside Monday to practice on the completed Wrigley Field rink, acclimating to the surface before the Winter Classic on Tuesday.
Because Arvid Soderblom started in goal Sunday, Petr Mrazek likely will start Tuesday against the Blues, who lost to the Sabres 4-2 in their final game before the big event. As we’ve known all along, it won’t exactly be an impressive on-ice matchup.
Conclusion
The Blackhawks will look to bounce back and put an end to their recent slump in the Winter Classic. With a tough schedule ahead, it’s crucial for the team to regroup and find their footing.
FAQs
Q: What was the outcome of the Blackhawks’ last two games?
A: The Blackhawks were outscored 11-3 and lost to the Sabres 6-2 on Friday, and then lost to the Stars 5-1 on Sunday.
Q: Who started in goal for the Blackhawks on Sunday?
A: Arvid Soderblom started in goal for the Blackhawks on Sunday.
Q: Who is expected to start in goal for the Blackhawks in the Winter Classic?
A: Petr Mrazek is expected to start in goal for the Blackhawks in the Winter Classic.
Q: What is the weather forecast for the Winter Classic?
A: As of late Sunday, the Weather Channel was forecasting rain in the morning and clouds in the afternoon, which would work fine for the 4 p.m. game. The 40-degree high won’t be nearly as problematic as rain would be.
