Two of the best teams in the league face off when the Chicago Blackhawks (7-0-2) visit the San Jose Sharks (7-1-1).
After getting off to dominant starts, both teams have played the majority of their recent matches in overtime. The last three Chicago games have been decided in the shootout and their last four have been decided past regulation. More interestingly, five of Chicago's last six have gone to extra time. In their most recent match, the Blackhawks were outplayed by the Calgary Flames but a strong performance from Ray Emery earned them two points.
"That was criminal," Chicago coach Joel Quenneville said. "They've got to call the cops after that performance. (Emery) stole two points. He was spectacular."
The Sharks have played three of their last four games in the shootout. However their most recent loss was a 2-1 regulation defeat to the Anaheim Ducks. The Sharks' top line continued to struggle and has now gone four straight games without a goal. The Sharks have lost two straight including a shootout loss to the Nashville Predators.
Previous meetings: This is the first of three meetings between the two clubs. The teams split the four meetings last season with San Jose earning seven out of eight points.
Predictions: This match could go either way, but Chicago has shown more depth and consistency of late. Look for Chicago to take a 2-1 win.
Start Time: 10: 30 PM EST
TV: NHLN-CA, CSN-CA
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