Blackhawks Can’t Keep Leaving Their Goalies Out To Dry

The Hockey News argues that the Chicago Blackhawks must improve their defensive support after leaving their goaltenders vulnerable during an 0-3-0 season-opening road trip. A Saturday night loss to the Buffalo Sabres concluded the winless stretch before the team's home debut at the United Center. Despite the poor record, head coach Jeff Blashill emphasized focusing on the overall team process rather than panicking over early results.

Vinnie Parise notes that Blackhawks goaltenders Spencer Knight and Arvid Soderblom have faced heavy workloads, conceding at least 32 shots in each matchup. Meanwhile, Chicago managed only 15 shots in their second and third games. The writer asserts that the team must improve shot suppression and backchecking to give their netminders a realistic chance to win games.