What Do You Play For When You Know You Can't Win?

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Stef
March 31, 2022 (5:59 PM)

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To say that tonight is a big night for the Blackhawks is not only stating the blatantly obvious, but it's also a glaring understatement. So let's set aside the celebration for the time being (because I definitely want to end this on a good note) and focus on why this game against the Panthers is important for not only the team, but the entire organization as a whole.

It's not about the losses, themselves. We're used to that, this season. Heck, that's how we started the season; as losers. But then we got a new coach, and some new life, at least for a while. Losing a game after playing your best, making all the right moves, trying to find the right plays, etc - that's disappointing, but not inexcusable.

Vegas, and most importantly Buffalo, were inexcusable. And that's why tonight is such a big game. It's Florida. No one is actually expecting the Hawks to win. But the players need to show some sign that they're willing to fight for what being a Blackhawk means to them.

They have to actually listen to their coach (who I think is doing a pretty darn good job, so far). And after all of the wonderful things they said about their captain, if they're not going to play for themselves, they have to play for him.
Jonathan Toews was drafted in 2006, Round 1, #3 overall by the Chicago Blackhawks. He was named Captain at age 20 the 3rd youngest in the NHL. This is his team. And after everything he went through last year, he fought to come back to this team. He fought for his first goal of this season, and every one since.

He fought through his concussion and his frustration and he is still here, as a Blackhawk, as Captain of the Blackhawks, for his 1000th game. And while his nickname is Captain Serious for several obvious reasons, he is one of the most kind, caring, lovable players out there. He has his traditions, his own cellies, and a quiet leadership that has brought this club 3 Stanley Cups.

It's not going to be the fairest of fights, if you look at the standings. But that's what makes hockey so exciting. Nothing is ever a sure thing. Look at Buffalo. Look at Arizona, for crying out loud. Look at earlier this month when the Hawks scored 8 goals in a single game. We did it once, we can do it again. The Chicago Blackhawks are an Original Six team. Play for that history and the better future that's being built around you.