Opinion
3 min read

Blackhawks Set to Battle Penguins at United Center in Mid-February Showdown

As the Chicago Blackhawks prepare to host the Pittsburgh Penguins at the United Center, fans are eager for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The Blackhawks have been showing signs of brilliance and resilience, despite recent challenges that have tested their mettle.


Oct 10, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Marcus Pettersson (28) and right wing Bryan Rust (17) congratulate center Sidney Crosby (87) after Crosby scored a goal against the Chicago Blackhawks during the second period at the PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at their last game on December 24 against the St. Louis Blues, the Blackhawks demonstrated an offensive prowess by netting 5 goals on just 20 shots, boasting an impressive shooting percentage of 25 percent. However, they were outplayed in faceoffs with only a 40 percent win rate and ended up with a negative plus-minus of -7. Even though they showed strength in even situations and managed to score once during powerplay opportunities, it wasn't enough as they ultimately lost with a final score of 5-7.


In contrast, when facing off against Montreal Canadiens on December 23, Chicago's performance was less than stellar. They scored only twice from 21 shots which translates into a meager shooting percentage of just under 10 percent. Their faceoff win rate was slightly better at around 43 percent but still not enough to dominate possession. The team also suffered from giveaways and penalties that led them astray.


Oct 10, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Jason Dickinson (16) celebrates with the Chicago bench after scoring the game winning goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the third period at the PPG Paints Arena. Chicago won 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

However, it's important not to overlook their victory over Colorado Avalanche on December 20 where they capitalized efficiently during powerplays scoring once out of six opportunities while maintaining control over hits and takeaways which contributed significantly towards their narrow win margin.


The upcoming game against Pittsburgh presents an opportunity for redemption and showcasing true Blackhawks hockey – one that capitalizes on opponent mistakes while minimizing their own vulnerabilities particularly in special teams play where they've shown potential but lacked consistency.


Oct 10, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) moves in on goal ahead of Chicago Blackhawks center Cole Guttman (70) during the first period at the PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Penguins come into this game as formidable opponents; however, if Chicago can harness the same energy and execution displayed against Colorado while tightening up defensively especially during penalty kills – there is no doubt that fans could witness an exhilarating victory for the home side.


With all eyes set on February 16th at United Center in Chicago IL (zip code:60612), fans should mark their calendars for this late-night spectacle scheduled to start at precisely 8:30 PM ET. Those unable to attend can catch all the action live through various broadcast networks including ESPN+ online or locally via NBCS-CHI channel number:665 or SportsNet PT channel number:659 for away team supporters.

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