The Chicago Blackhawks’ Frozen Frenzy was a disappointing evening, resulting in a 6-3 defeat against the Vancouver Canucks at home. This loss marked yet another missed chance for the Hawks, who struggled with a slow start and ended the night empty-handed.
Since the season began, Blackhawks captain Nick Foligno has been striving to lead by example. He was even elevated to the team’s top line, joining Connor Bedard and Teuvo Teravainen. Following the loss, Foligno took responsibility for the team’s poor performance, which included an early goal by Danton Heinen just 21 seconds into the game. “Especially our line, we pride ourselves on starting on time, and we didn’t get the job done on the first shift,” Foligno remarked. “It’s disappointing, both for myself and the team, as it sets the tone for much of the game. After that goal, I felt we lacked any emotion, and their quick transition to their game was frustrating because we need to improve in that area.”
Addressing the need to start strong is crucial for the Hawks moving forward. With a record of 2-4-1 after seven games, the statistics are telling: in the three games where they’ve scored first, they hold a 2-0-1 record, but they’re 0-4-0 when the opponent scores first. “It seems that in games where we start slowly, we struggle and can’t recover,” Foligno explained. “It’s about understanding that if we find ourselves in that situation, we must have the mental strength to rebound and do what’s necessary.”
This isn’t a new issue for the Blackhawks. Last season, they had a record of 14-16-4 when they scored first, but a dismal 9-37-2 when their opponents scored first. The Blackhawks resembled last year’s team in this game, despite a more experienced roster that was expected to compete consistently. As the newly appointed captain, Foligno emphasized the need to avoid falling into old habits, especially for the newcomers still adjusting to the team.
Head Coach Luke Richardson has stressed the importance of starting strong since the opening game in Utah. Now, after seven games, he noted the “same old story.” “The start was unfortunate; when you get scored on in the first shift, you tend to play on your heels,” Richardson said. “It looked like they sensed that and did a great job causing confusion in our offensive zone.”
Richardson acknowledged that while the team regrouped and found themselves in the game, it’s vital not to fall behind, especially at home. “We want to control that aspect, and we simply can’t get scored on during the first shift.”
In tonight’s game, Blackhawks forward Taylor Hall also achieved a milestone, notching his 700th NHL point with a quick goal off a loose puck in the offensive zone. “I liked that goal; it was swift,” Richardson commented. “Hopefully, that boosts his confidence. He’s still working on finding his rhythm as his body adjusts back to game form after being out for nine months.”
