That level of success has created high expectations in the minds of players and fans. Back-to-back losses to the Minnesota Wild and Nashville Predators this week has caused a certain amount of confusion and consternation in fans and players alike.
“I don’t get it,” said Hawks forward Patrick Kane. “We did everything we usually do last night. We skated hard, moved the puck. But then at the end they told us we lost.”
The Blackhawks led the Predators 3-1 going into the final period of play, before giving up four unanswered goals to lose 5 -3. Goaltender Cristobal Huet was having a solid outing before being victimized in the third period, including two power-play goals.
“It’s confusing. I don’t think people understand the pressure of a winning streak, particularly when you’re starting from scratch,” said Huet. “I mean, we were up by two goals and beginning to think about rattling off another five or six victories. Then out of nowhere we’re back to square one. Winning streaks are hard.”
Quote of the game:
“Boys, there are three periods in a hockey game. Now get your heads out of your rears.” — Blackhawks Coach Joel Quenneville
