After the Chicago Blackhawks stunning and epic 4-3 overtime victory over the Vancouver Canucks I had to check myself into the nearest hospital for suffering multiple heart attacks. Not really, but that’s exactly I felt after Sunday night’s game.
The situation was always clear for the ‘Hawks. Win and you get a chance to continue on to the second round. Lose and you’re set home for good.
The ‘Hawks choose the former, but it wasn’t easy. Time after time the ‘Hawks found themselves behind and in the need for just one more goal. In fact the ‘Hawks never had the lead- only adding to the stress level.
Ben Smith scored the overtime goal, his third of the series. Smith, a rookie, has opened eyes around the league with his determined playing style. He has certaintly earned a free dinner from his teammates.
Despite all the excitement over game six, there is still a game seven to be played.
Vancouver goaltedner,Corey Schneider, was replaced by Roberto Luongo in the third period after he hurt himself doing the splits while trying to stop a Michael Frolik penalty shot. Frolik scored, tying the game at three.
The Vancouver coaches have a dilemma on hand. Early reports on Schneider’s status indicate that he will be healthy to start in game seven on Tuesday.
So who do the Canucks start in game seven then? Do they stick with Schneider or do they return to Luongo?
I can’t tell you the answer to that, but what I can tell you is that the Canucks are scared sh**less. They’ve blown a 3-0 series lead. What’s worse is you can make an argument that they played better than the ‘Hawks in game six, yet somehow fell short. In fact, Vancouver controlled the puck for the majority of the 15 minutes of overtime, and were consistently threatening.
The big question is “Can the ‘Hawks finish with a win?” Only seven teams have forced a game seven after being down 3-0, and of that group three have won the series. Let’s hope the Blackahawks can become number four.
Game seven is on Tuesday at 9pm cdt.
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