The Chicago Blackhawks have certainly made the United Center a home-ice advantage, but a big test for this team was taking that energy and transferring it to the road as well. Chicago has answered that call quickly, winning 3 games in 4 nights against Canadien teams.
The circus trip has been no problem for the Hawks, and they are now on a 7-game win streak. The first two games of the trip were against Calgary and Edmonton, and the Hawks erupted for 12 goals combined in the two games. Things were a bit different on Sunday with Vancouver's defensive style of play combined with goalie Roberto Luongo making life difficult for Chicago.
Yet one early third-period goal was the difference because Antti Niemi, playing his first game in several weeks, made 30 saves. Young Hawk player Brian Bickell, of all people, put a rebound passed Luongo for the game's only goal. Many different Chicago players step up each game, and it was good to win a close game like this.
A team that can put up 3 goals every night sometimes cannot steal away 1-0 games. Chicago did just that on the road and can continue the momentum into California. Chicago has three more tests on this trip including Wednesday's potential thriller against conference-leading San Jose. The Sharks (16-5-4) lead the Hawks (15-5-2) by 4 points atop the Western Conference.
A win on Wednesday would be Chicago's eighth straight, second win over San Jose this season, and be the first home loss for the Sharks in 10 games. It should be a fun atmosphere, and after winning three in Canada, the Hawks are ready to take over the three California teams as well.
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