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Niemi Shuts Out Canucks, Giving Blackhawks Seven Game Winning Streak

Written by: EricC on 23rd November 2009

The Chicago Blackhawks are on a roll! After defeating the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday, Chicago has increased their winning streak to seven games, giving them a flawless first half to their Circus Trip. Vancouver really put up a fight, holding the team to only 17 shots all game; the lowest amount of shots they’ve had all season! However, the Canucks were not short on shots, taking 30 on Anitti Niemi. Niemi saved them all to help the Blackhawks continue adding wins.

This game went two fulls periods without any goals. Both teams had many opportunities, but neither could get it past the opposing goalie. Finally, in the opening minutes of the third period, Bryan Bickell put a goal in as him and Jonathan Toews fought for it in front of the Canuck net. This was only Bickell’s 13th game with the Blackhawks, acquired in the second round of the 2007 Draft.

Bickell ended up having the goal that won it for the Blackhawks, but a ton of credit for that win is due to Niemi. Cristobal Huet had the night off after helping the Hawks win their last six games, including the win the night before against the Edmonton Oilers. Coach Q needs him to rest up before taking on the San Jose Sharks, which will be a tough game. Niemi, who has only played six games this season, has four wins and one loss on his record, along with a 92.1% Save Percentage.

The Blackhawks get a couple of days of rest before continuing the Circus Trip in San Jose against the Sharks. That game will take place Wednesday, November 25 at 9:30 P.M. CT. The Sharks currently lead the NHL with 36 points, and are one of two teams still undefeated at Home.