Opinion
3 min read

Blackhawks Aim to Dethrone Kings in Windy City Showdown

As the Chicago Blackhawks prepare to host the Los Angeles Kings at the United Center, fans are eager for a glimpse of redemption after a string of challenging games. The upcoming match on March 15th promises to be an intense battle, with CHI looking to turn their fortunes around.


Jan 22, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Ian Mitchell (51) celebrates his goal against the Los Angeles Kings during the third period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The Blackhawks' recent performance has been less than stellar, as evidenced by their shutout loss against the Colorado Avalanche on March 4th. Despite putting up 37 shots and blocking 18 attempts, they failed to capitalize on any of their four powerplay opportunities. Their goaltending was solid with a save percentage of 100 percent, but it wasn't enough as they allowed five goals against them.


In contrast, during their game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on March 2nd at home, CHI showed signs of life. They managed two goals from 28 shots and had a faceoff win percentage of 53 percent. However, defensive lapses led to conceding five goals – one being an empty-netter – resulting in another loss.


Jan 22, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Ian Mitchell (51) celebrates his goal against the Los Angeles Kings during the third period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The Blackhawks have demonstrated resilience despite these setbacks. Their ability to generate shots is commendable; however, converting those opportunities into goals will be crucial against LA. The Kings are not an opponent that can be taken lightly; they come into this game with their own set of strengths and strategies that CHI must counteract effectively.


One key area for improvement for CHI is powerplay execution. With zero powerplay goals in recent games despite multiple chances, it's clear that special teams need a spark if they hope to overcome LA's defenses.


Jan 22, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Ian Mitchell (51) celebrates his goal against the Los Angeles Kings during the third period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

On defense, Chicago must tighten up and reduce high-quality scoring chances for LA while capitalizing on takeaways and minimizing giveaways – areas where they've shown competence before but need consistency.


For Los Angeles Kings fans watching this matchup unfold at United Center or tuning in from afar will witness two teams eager for victory but facing different battles: one fighting for pride and progress while the other seeks dominance over its conference rival.


As we look ahead towards puck drop scheduled at United Center on March 15th at 7:30 PM CT (8:30 PM ET), fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ via internet streaming or through local broadcasts NBCS-CHI and BSW for television viewership. This game presents an opportunity for Chicago Blackhawks not just to win but also regain confidence - something much needed as we approach season's end.

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