Chicago Blackhawks vs San Jose Sharks - Game 3 Preview
Tonight, the clash of the titans in the west continues, as the Chicago Blackhawks host the San Jose Sharks in Game 3 of this high octane Western Conference Final. The Blackhawks are looking absolutely lethal right now, as they are living up to everyone’s initial expectations. Goaltending has been the only question of this team all season long, but right now Antti Niemi has elevated his performance to where it needs to be against a strong offensive team like the Sharks. As for the Sharks, they are starting to look like the playoff Sharks we remember from the last few years. It looks as though Joe Thornton has lost that emerging intensity we saw from him in the second round, as that top line is starting to look soft again. Clearly, the Sharks are a very talented group with deadly offensive flare, but it seems like there just is not enough grit from this team. Perhaps instead of the Blackhawk’s outing to Alcatraz last week, Mclellan should have sent his squad to spend their nights off on the haunted island and toughen themselves mentally for the upcoming series.
When it comes to goaltending with these two, I would suggest to sports bettors that they leave the over/under totals alone for the duration of this series. It has been hit or miss with these two goalies for most of the season and playoffs. Both of these goalies have fairly decent numbers (Nabokov: .907 SV%, 2.53 GAA, Niemi: .981 SV %, 2.41 GAA) so far these playoffs, however, anyone who has followed these teams know that these numbers do not reflect consistency. They can both steal games for their teams one night, but can also both get lit up the next night. Lately, Niemi has proved to be more reliable than ever, however, with two potentially high scoring teams like these two, it is best not to assume totals. The Hawksdefinitely have momentum in their favor, as they are heading home to the rockin United Centre. I think it will be a very difficult climb for the Sharks from here on in. Unless the Sharks can tighten up (which begins with captain not allowing the kids to dance around him like it were a shinny game), the High Flying Hawks will be unstoppable, and the streets of Chi-Town will be very clean by Sunday evening. Bring out the brooms! Chicago Blackhawks is my pick.
By: Christopher Ong > Find all of the NHL news & articles online from Pro Hockey Fans. |
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