Rebirth

After a very cold outing to the local minor league baseball game, we returned home to watch the Blackhawks v. Canucks game four.  Once again, the team in the Blackhawks uniforms was not the team I watched for the first series and on and a half games of this series.

Lethargic and tentative in game one and halfway through game 2, this team is aggressive, plays smart and is patient in setting up shots for goals.  This is a team that can go far in the playoffs.  I enjoy watching this team much more.  I have confidence in this team.

In game three Dustin Byfuglien's agressive play led to a hat trick and star of the game status.  In this game, the Captain, Jonathan Toews was not to be outdone.  Not only did he score a hat trick but he picked up two more points with assists to tie a team playoff record.

At the ballpark, the number of people with Blackhawks gear on was very pleasing.  This team has seen an amazing renaissance in this area.  A few short years ago, they were lucky to have a couple thousand people show up at the games.  Now they sellout and, at least last night, people quickly stop what they're doing to get home and watch them play on TV.  And since Rocky Wirtz has taken over the team, they can happily do that with home games, too.

The Hawks are now up three games to one.  They return home for a Mother's Day tilt at the UC.  I know one Mother, and a Mutha, who would find a series wrap up to be a great present.