One of the favorites to win the 2013 Stanley Cup entering this season, the Chicago Blackhawks have played dominant hockey right from the start.
Entering their Western Conference Playoff series with the Minnesota Wild, the 'Hawks were an obvious favorite and through 4 games, they've held true to form as they currently lead the Wild 3-1.
The puck will drop in Game 5 on Thursday, May 9th at 9:30pm, EDT from the United Center in Chicago. Television coverage will be provided by the NBC Sports Network.
While the Blackhawks were fully capable on closing out the series in 4 games, Minnesota was able to win Game 3 in overtime thanks to a Jason Zucker game-winner. Still leading 2-1 heading into Game 4, the Blackhawks and goalie Corey Crawford pitched a shutout, taking the contest by a score of 3-0 and setting up a chance to end the series at home in Game 5.
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With intense defense and timely scoring, the Blackhawks certainly look capable of winning their first Stanley Cup since claiming the title back in 2010.
Patrick Kane and Patrick Sharp pace an explosive Chicago offense, as they lead the team in points during the playoffs with 5 apiece. Corey Crawford has been phenomenal between the pipes, averaging 29 saves per game in the postseason while only letting 6 pucks slip past him.
Along with their balance on both sides of the ice, the leader of the Blackhawks has been impressed with his team's ability to burn penalty minutes, especially in Game 4.
"I thought the penalty kill was outstanding," 'Hawks coach Joel Quenneville said to NHL.com reporters. "It starts with the goaltender in those situations. Six (penalties) isn't a normal number for us, two or three is usually our quota. Just an outstanding job blocking shots, getting clears. I commend them for doing an outstanding job."
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Firing on all cylinders, the Blackhawks will look to continue their outstanding postseason performance when they host the Wild for Game 5 with a chance to advance to the next round.
The Western Conference Playoff series resumes Thursday, May 9th at 9:30pm, EDT. Fans can watch the contest on the NBC Sports Network.
WATCH HIGHLIGHTS of Chicago's 3-0 Victory over Minnesota in Game 4:
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