Blackhawks Enjoying Most Explosive Offensive Season Ever!
The red hot Blackhawks currently boast the league's top scorer in rookie Maxime Lacroix who has been nothing short of sensational. Scoring highlight reel goals night in, night out, this maybe the franchise player the Blackhawks have been waiting for. Maxime is not only scoring goals but has proven to be quite the playmaker. Playing on a line with free agent acquistion Jeremy Roenick and last years sniper extraordinare, Colby Armstrong, Lacroix is getting a chance to show how well he can read the play on the ice.
"Playing with these guys is amazing really. JR will always find a way to get us the puck and you know that Colbs will find someway to slide it in there".
In fact the Hawks currently have the leading scorer in all 3 forward position categories.
The Kids Are Alright!
Last years first round pick and Calder trophy winner is also enjoying another fine season so far and has been a great help in getting Lacroix accustomed to the TFHL.
Building from within is something new to the Hawks who in years past were quick to trade away draft picks for proven talent. The last two first round selections have so far been outstanding and will be crucial if the Hawks are to have any real success in the postseason. Coach Denis Savard is greatful that GM Rick Arich has finally stopped that annoying trend. "We were getting guys in here that were groomed all over the league and alot of times they just weren't fitting into our systems and style of play. Its nice to have these kids who can come up through the system and both parties know what they can expect from one another.
What Goes Up....Must Come Down
Not all is coming up roses for the Hawks so far this season though. A serious injury to #1 defenceman Ryan O'Byrne has crippled the defensive corps and the coaching staff are hoping they can hang in there until his return much later this season. Jason Smith was quick to reiterate the consequences of the situation come Day 43 when the Owls visit the Blackhawks.
"The boys are still pretty choked at Thornton for that cheap shot. He better keep his head up when they come to town".
Shortly after that comment, Jason Smith was suspended 5 games for a questionable hit on Jaroslav Svoboda of the Blades. It looks like Svoboda will miss much of the season much like O'Byrne.
Prognosis Positive
So nearly a quarter of the way into the season the Blackhawks have shattered some early expectations and shut many of their critics up but its still early and just like last year.....hot streaks end and things can change in a heartbeat. Lets hope they can just keep putting more rubber in the net than the other team. At the very least we can all expect some exciting Hawk hockey for the next little while I'm sure!
The Blackhawk Reporter --- April 18,2007
No comments:
Post a Comment