The NHL playoffs will drop the puck starting Wednesday and with the new playoff format the seedings mean little to nothing concerning the match ups. Let us dig into the matchup between the No. 3 St. Louis Blues and the No. 5 Chicago Blackhawks
Breakdown: This game would have been a marquee matchup not too long ago, but both teams limp into the playoffs and hope to muster enough to advance to round two. The Blackhawks may be without both Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews who have been sidelined with injury. Chicago assures everyone they will be ready, but time will tell. The Blues lost their last six games before the playoffs and haven't faired much better with the injury bug.
Blackhawk to Watch: Injured players
The Blackhawks are always dangerous come playoff time, but this year is tough due to the loss of Towes and Kane. Both players are key to the teams success and hold the keys to the franchises next Stanley Cup. The Blackhawks might have enough to get past the Blues, but past that, Kane and Toews are much needed.
Blue to Watch: Jaden Schwartz
In his second full year in the NHL, Schwartz has come on to be a integral piece to what the Blues want to do on offense. His skill set is interesting due to the level of offense he brings to the table in such a limited role. He had 25 goals in the regular season and he could be called on to score in a tight spot as a reserve.
Prediction: Blackhawks in 6
All the series can’t got to seven games, right? I expect the Hawks to be able to handle the slumping Blues without their injured stars, but I expect them back in time to play a role in this series.
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