In a lockout-shortened season, one would not expect to see a team enter the NHL record books with a feat of longevity; but that is exactly what will be on the line Friday night. With their victory over Vancouver on Tuesday, the Chicago Blackhawks tied an NHL record by earning at least a point in 16 consecutive games to start a season. With a game against the San Jose Sharks, the Blackhawks will now have the chance to break it.
The two teams met a mere week ago, with the Hawks besting the Sharks for the second time this season. Perhaps the third time is a charm for the Fins, who would surely love to play spoiler.
“Somebody’s got to stop them eventually,” said Sharks coach Todd McLellan to The Mercury News. “We’re the next team on the list so let’s do it.”
Former Blackhawks goaltender Antti Niemi will be between the pipes for the Sharks. For the Hawks it will be well-traveled backup Ray Emery, who has shined since Corey Crawford went down with injury, posting a 6-0 record on the season.
The Hawks will have another boost to their chances, as the team announced Marian Hossa will be in the lineup after leaving Tuesday’s contest with a concussion. Tough guy Daniel Carcillo will also be in the lineup for the first time since injuring his knee in the season-opener. He may be needed, seeing as last game featured a fight between Joe Thornton and Jonathan Toews, captains of the Sharks and Hawks, respectively.
The puck drops at 7:30 p.m. CST, and can be viewed on the NHL Network.
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