PREMIUM
The Coach's NHL 3 Game Report
(NHL) Minnesota vs. Chicago,
Money Line: 126.00 Minnesota (Away)
Result: Loss
Money Line: 126.00 Minnesota (Away)
Result: Loss
The Chicago Blackhawks opened this Western Conference semifinals series against the Minnesota Wild with a 4-3 home-win. It was not a convincing one though, and I think the value is on the visitors tonight.
Here are my keys to the game:
1. Chicago's Lack Of Focus - The Blackhawks jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in Game 1 but allowed the Wild to claw back to 3-3 before tallying the winner with a minute left of the second period. If they showed such complacency mid-game they could be in trouble here one game up in the series.
2. The Wild's Power Play - Minnesota converted on one of its three chances on the man advantage Friday and is tied with Anaheim for the most effective power play unit in this years playoffs.
3. X-Factor - Corey Crawford in the Chicago net has posted a 3.81 GAA over four outings so far in the playoffs but can not count on the Blackhawks offense to bail him out time and time again.
Selection: This is a play on the Minnesota Wild (10*)
Here are my keys to the game:
1. Chicago's Lack Of Focus - The Blackhawks jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in Game 1 but allowed the Wild to claw back to 3-3 before tallying the winner with a minute left of the second period. If they showed such complacency mid-game they could be in trouble here one game up in the series.
2. The Wild's Power Play - Minnesota converted on one of its three chances on the man advantage Friday and is tied with Anaheim for the most effective power play unit in this years playoffs.
3. X-Factor - Corey Crawford in the Chicago net has posted a 3.81 GAA over four outings so far in the playoffs but can not count on the Blackhawks offense to bail him out time and time again.
Selection: This is a play on the Minnesota Wild (10*)