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Blackhawks and Senators Clash at the United Center: A Battle for Supremacy

As the Chicago Blackhawks prepare to host the Ottawa Senators at the United Center on February 17, fans are eager to see if their team can continue their recent trend of resilience. The Blackhawks have shown a mixed bag of results in their past few outings, with performances that both raise hopes and cause concern.


Mar 6, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA;  Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Seth Jones (4) scores a goal on Ottawa Senators goaltender Mads Sogaard (40) in the second period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against St. Louis Blues, despite a strong offensive showing with five goals on 20 shots, resulting in an impressive shooting percentage of 25 percent, defensive lapses led to a loss with six goals conceded. The faceoff win rate stood at a mere 40 percent, indicating room for improvement in puck possession from the get-go.


The previous home game saw an opposite scenario unfold against Montreal Canadiens where Chicago's defense was tighter but offense struggled to capitalize on chances – scoring only two goals from 21 shots reflecting a shooting percentage of just 10 percent. However, they were able to maintain better control during faceoffs with a win rate of approximately 43 percent.


Mar 6, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA;  Ottawa Senators forward Brady Tkachuk (7) is held back by linesman Julien Fournier (56) as he shouts at the Chicago Blackhawks in the third period at United Center. Tkachuk was given a 10-minute misconduct penalty. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

A glimmer of hope shone through when they faced off against Colorado Avalanche at home earlier. The Blackhawks secured victory with three goals from just 22 shots (a shooting percentage of around 14 percent) and demonstrated solid goaltending by saving all but two out of thirty-seven shots faced.


These fluctuating performances highlight that consistency is key for Chicago as they approach this upcoming game. Special teams will play a crucial role; powerplay opportunities need conversion while shorthanded situations must be handled effectively.


Mar 6, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA;  Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Alex Stalock (32) follows the puck on a shot from the Ottawa Senators in the third period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

The United Center has been both fortress and folly for the Blackhawks this season; however, fans can expect an energetic atmosphere as always which could provide the extra push needed for victory.


Fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ or NBCS-CHI channel number 665 as these two teams vie for dominance on Saturday night at eight o'clock Eastern Time.

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