As the new year began, the Chicago Blackhawks were able to kick off the new year by sweeping Dallas in two consecutive games over the course of the weekend.
An 8-1 loss at American Airlines Center on Sunday was all but a predetermined conclusion following a three-goal first period and a two-goal second period. This is in contrast to the roller coaster ride that was Friday’s loss to the Stars, which was decided with eight seconds left in overtime.
When the Hawks went into the rematch, they were aware of what they were looking for: odd-man rushes.
They accomplished the majority of their damage from below the blue line, which was the problem. The Stars hardly ever exited the offensive zone.
At the beginning of the game, Craig Smith deflected Sam Steel’s snipe, which resulted in the first goal.
