The Chicago Blackhawks showcased some strategies as they clashed with the San Jose Sharks on Halloween. Despite both teams residing in the lower tier of the NHL standings, they came into the game on a high note after recent victories. The Blackhawks had just triumphed over the Colorado Avalanche, while the Sharks ended a nine-game losing streak by winning their last two matches.
Regrettably for the Blackhawks, they had previously encountered the Sharks twice this season without 2024 first-overall draft pick Macklin Celebrini (due to a lower-body injury), so fans will have to wait until March to witness a matchup between him and Connor Bedard. Nevertheless, the Blackhawks aimed for their first two-game winning streak of the season but fell short. Here are four observations from Chicago’s 3-2 defeat against the Sharks.
1. Donato Shines Again for the Blackhawks
Ryan Donato’s performance is worth mentioning once more. The Blackhawks struggled to begin with against the Sharks, allowing the first goal to rookie Will Smith (his first NHL goal), which felt like a Halloween horror for Chicago fans. However, Donato stepped up at just the right moment, scoring to tie the game at 1-1 in the first period, followed by Tyler Bertuzzi scoring a minute later to give the Blackhawks a 2-1 lead. Donato continues to contribute significantly, with a three-game scoring streak (four goals in that span) and leading the team with six goals. Connor Bedard trails him with three, making Donato a crucial player when the team needs a goal.
2. Disappointing Second Period
The second period proved disappointing for the Blackhawks, who missed an opportunity to extend their lead. They finished the period trailing 3-2, thanks to Will Smith’s second power-play goal and a goal from Alexander Wennberg. This marked two consecutive games where the second period left the Blackhawks wanting more.
3. Frustrating Outcome for Blackhawks
The 3-2 loss was maddening for two reasons. First, the Blackhawks made a strong third-period push, but the Sharks managed to hold on. Seth Jones recorded five shots on goal in that period, showing the effort was present, even if the puck luck wasn’t in their favor.
Additionally, captain Nick Foligno pointed out before the game that the team should avoid settling for moral victories. Considering they had just defeated the Avalanche and the Edmonton Oilers, this matchup against the Sharks felt like a game they should have won, making the loss even more painful.
4. A Notable Turnaround for Taylor Hall
Sean McIndoe of The Athletic highlighted NHL players who started the season slowly, mentioning Taylor Hall, who entered the game with just three points. Despite being a vital part of the second line and ranking fourth on the team in shots (26), Hall had been scoreless for three games. However, he assisted on Bertuzzi’s goal against San Jose, indicating that his scoring role might soon pick up. The Blackhawks are eager for both Hall and Bertuzzi, who has also had a slow start, to regain their scoring touch.
