The Chicago Blackhawks did not miss a beat as they took on the Washington Capitals during their home opener last night. After a moving Stanley Cup ceremony and banner raising, the Blackhawks got right back into it as if no time had lapsed during the off season. This game had the Capitals on their heels from early on in the first period and they only managed to hold a lead for a short period of time during the third period.
Crawford’s glove hand remains a weak spot but he made 28 saves, contributing to killing off the 5- on -3 power play with a couple huge stops. Holtby made 29 saves and several mistakes; a stop he would have liked to have, was on a fluttering shot by Oduya that went off Holtby’s glove on its way into the net.
“It just completely fooled me,” Holtby said. “I had a clean look at the shot, it was just one of those sinkers. It happened. It was one I would love to have, but I think there are a couple of others in the game that I should have done a better job on, more than that one.”
The Blackhawks look as strong as last season and are going for a Stanley Cup repeat. The Capitals have every possibility to be contenders, their turnovers gave the Blackhawks momentum and a strong finish. Patrick Kane and associates started the season off strong, reminding the NHL how they won their title last season. The target on the back of the Chicago Blackhawks only got bigger, they are the team to beat. The Washington Capitals and the Chicago Blackhawks will not face off again until April.
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