Hawks Only Two Wins Away from the Cup

Written by: EricC on 1st June 2010

The Chicago Blackhawks are now up 2-0 in the Stanley Cup Finals!! While Game 1 was a high scoring match with back and forth leads, this game remained scoreless until the final minutes of the second period. The Blackhawks, who were struggling with home wins at the beginning of the Playoffs, have now taken both games in Chicago, and will try to continue their Playoff Road Streak in Games 3 and 4; they have currently taken their last seven Road Games.

The Blackhawks only allowed three shots in the first period, while taking nine of their own; however, neither team was able to put a goal in. With under three minutes remaining in the second period, Marian Hossa gave Chicago the lead, snagging his third goal of the Playoffs. Despite holding a +11 ranking in the Post Season, he has received criticism about his value in the Post Season. This was his first goal since Game 3 in Vancouver.

Less than 30 seconds after Hossa’s goal, Ben Eager slapped in a nice wrist shot, making it 2-0. This was Eager’s first goal of the Post Season, and only his second point; regardless, it ended up being the Game Winning Goal. Five minutes into the third period, the Flyers capitalized on a Power Play, making it a one goal difference again. Luckily, Chicago held out until the final horn, despite some nerve wrecking plays in the final minutes.

Antti Niemi recorded his 14th Playoff Win, making 32 saves, some of which were absolutely incredible. In this season, this young goalie has gone from a back up who had only played several NHL games previously, to the hottest goalie in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. There should be no doubt that the “Finnish Fortress” has earned his place at the starting goalie.

Game 3 will take place out in Philadelphia this Wednesday, June 2, at 7:00 P.M. CT.