Blackhawks routed by Blue Jackets for 5th straight loss

10 observations: Blackhawks routed by Blue Jackets for 5th straight loss originally appeared on
NBC Sports Chicago

The Chicago Blackhawks suffered a 7-3 defeat against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday at Nationwide Arena, marking their fifth consecutive loss.

Here are 10 takeaways from the game:

1. Taylor Hall did not travel with the team and is being evaluated back in Chicago. Corey Perry was also a late scratch for unknown reasons. The Blackhawks had to compete with 11 forwards and seven defensemen, which did not bode well for them.

2. It was a rough start for the Blackhawks, conceding the first goal for the fifth time in six games and facing a 3-0 deficit in the first period against a struggling Blue Jackets team.

3. Connor Bedard and Adam Fantilli, the top picks in the 2023 NHL Draft, clashed for the first time in their NHL careers. Both players displayed their exceptional talents, making significant contributions to the game.

4. Despite the Columbus team’s struggles this season, players like Laine, Johnson, and Boqvist showcased their abilities, indicating that the team is not to be underestimated.

5. Former Blackhawks player Adam Boqvist made his presence felt by registering two assists against his former team, with assistance from defenseman Zach Werenski.

6. Petr Mrazek had a tough night in goal, being pulled in the second period after conceding five goals. Despite this performance, he has otherwise been solid throughout the season.

7. Seth Jones’ cross-checking penalty in the first period led to a goal for the Blue Jackets, but it was a contentious call.

8. Kevin Korchinski’s promotion to the top power-play unit showed promise, providing opportunities for the Blackhawks to capitalize on power plays.

9. Boris Katchouk’s impressive performance in the first period, with multiple shots on goal, was a bright spot for the Blackhawks.

10. After a surprisingly poor performance, the Blackhawks must assess whether to move on quickly from this defeat or let it motivate their future performances.

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