When the the St.Louis Blues lost to the Minnesota Wild in the previous round, their goaltending became a large part of the losing equation. Subpar at best, much ado about nothing at worst. The Wild's offence took swift, accurate advantage of that.
It would do well if the Chicago Blackhawks were to heed that warning. Afterall, Chicago's netminders -- rookie Scott Darling, who performed well in the beginning in their previous series against the Predators but tapered off, nor their number one Corey Crawford who was a dud, save for the last game of that series -- aren't anything to glow about thus far.
The Wild have the magic man behind the net, Devan Dubnyk, and when he plays well, he plays well. Minnesota sports the best power play of the playoffs, and their offence led not only by Zach Parise, but add Neidereitter and Granlund with contributions from their defence, such as workhorse Gary Suter, can create havoc for opposing goalies. The Wild have excellent ouck possession and once they get going, it's tough to stop this fast-skating, hungry team.
The 'Hawks as anyone will tell you have not been performing too well on all fronts, yet, when they need to get it done, they get it done. Apart from Patrick Kane and Marian Hossa, including the great defensive pair of Seabrook & Keith, the 'Hawks have someone no one else has -- Jonathan Toews. He leads all Chicago forwards in goals and proficiency and there's probably no one else better when it comes to that word called compete.
Chicago had to play a bit of catch-up hockey against the Predators, and they managed to come up with the wins when they had to.
Minnesota made short work of the Blues' weaknesses and they're certainly waiting to do the same against Chicago.
Can't wait to watch!
(Reference) Source: THN
