OK Blackhawks fans... The NHL trade deadline has come and gone and the Blackhawks didn't pull the trigger for a new goalie.
So, how do you feel knowing it's going to be either Cristobal Huet or Antti Niemi from here out? After Tuesday night's 5-3 drubbing by the lowly Islanders it seemed almost a lock they would make a move for another net minder... maybe for Florida's Tomas Vokoun?
Both goalies had a less than average game against the Isles. Niemi got the start, his fifth in a row, and promptly let in 3 goals in 12 shots before being pulled for Huet. And what did Huet do to prove he should be the undisputed starter? He let in 2 goals on 11 shots.
The Blackhawks have the talent on their roster to be a serious contender for Lord Stanley's Cup. Between the electrifying combination of Kane and Toews, stellar defensemen Keith and Seabrook and a proven winner like Hossa, not to mention some of the best depth in the NHL across all 4 lines, the Blackhawks should be able to take the next step from last season's playoff run and reach, if not win, the Stanley Cup.
However, in the playoffs, you only go as far as your backstop takes you. The Hawks will need Huet and Niemi to step up to the challenge and prove their front office right by not making a deadline deal. They don't need to stand on their head every night, but they both need to start making the routine saves and not let in soft goals every game. They need to reinstill confidence in their teammates that they will make the saves when the puck is on net.
Detroit ran the hot hand of Chris Osgood all the way to the finals last year after a ho-hum regular season. By not making a move the Blackhawks are hoping for the same from whoever feels like stepping up first... and hopefully one of them will sooner than later.
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