Jets 3, Blackhawks 1

By Kevin Schroeder
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Updated: December 28, 2016

The Blackhawks played twenty good minutes of hockey sandwiched between forty minutes of meh. They struggled mightily out of the gate not only were they not getting scoring chances, they had difficulty getting the puck at all. Winnipeg would take a 1-0 lead just under eight-and-a-half minutes in on a goal by Blake Wheeler. Mark Scheifele would make it 2-0 a little over six minutes later. In the second, the Hawks got going and started creating some scoring opportunities. Artem Anisimov finished off a great play a little over seven-and-a-half minutes into the period for the Hawks’ only goal in the period. They had plenty more chances, but were unable to cash in on them. However, they at least swung the momentum to their side. Drew Stafford scored on a breakaway just under two-and-a-half minutes into the third and things didn’t get a whole lot better from there for the Blackhawks. That would be the Jets’ only goal in the period, but the Hawks again struggles to create scoring opportunities and were unable to cut into the deficit.

A few things

Corey Crawford did not have a particularly great game. Gustav Forsling was rather bad. I’m not expecting to see the latter in the lineup Thursday.
Vinnie Hinostroza had entirely too many biffs for someone playing on the top line. When he’s on, he’s an exciting player to watch. When he’s not – oof. I’d like to see his spot given to Tyler Motte for a while to see what he can do. Once everyone’s healthy, I’d try Motte – Toews – Hossa / Panarin – Anisimov – Kane / Hartman – Hinostroza – Desjardins / Rasmussen – Kruger – Panik.
Artem Anisimov was activated off of IR and Marian Hossa was placed on IR, retroactive to December 20. Hoss may be able to play in the Winter Classic.

My picks for 3 stars

★★★ Blake Wheeler, RW, WPG (1 G)

★★ Patrick Kane, RW, CHI (1 A)

★ Jacob Trouba, D, WPG (2 A)

Twitter: @KSchroeder_312

E-mail: schroeder.giig@gmail.com