Blackhawks Eliminated By Coyotes, Joel Quenneville Provides His Post-Mortem Comments

The Chicago Blackhawks have been eliminated in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs for the second straight season, and after a decisive 4-0 loss to the Phoenix Coyotes there wasn't much left to say. Hawks' head coach Joel Quenneville lamented a lack of punch on special teams, praised the play of Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith, called Raffi Torres' illegal hit on Marian Hossa the turning point in the series and explained that he didn't know much about how long it would take Hossa to recover. There simply isn't much good to expound upon after being bounced from the playoff bracket.

Sam Fels of SB Nation's Blackhawks blog, Second City Hockey didn't complicate matters in his reaction to the end of Chicago's season:

In the end, it was our worst fear. Mike Smith having an answer for every question the Hawks could ask. The 1st period was probably the best period the Hawks played this series, and Smith made sure it wasn't enough. Credit where credit is due, he was simply too good. It's not easy for a goalie to be the main story in a series, it doesn't happen as often as people think. Smith was, and that's that.

The epitaph will have the same concerns, the same major holes a lot of us feared, and that I'd been in denial about for most of the year and certainly for this series. The goaltending and the special teams.

If you want to see Coach Q break down the final loss of the season and discuss a few issues heading into the offseason, here is the post-game interview (via CSN-Chicago):

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 6: Phoenix Eliminates Chicago With 4-0 Win

The Chicago Blackhawks are finished. Chicago trailed just 1-0 heading into the third period in Game 6 against the Phoenix Coyotes in the 2012 NHL playoffs, but an avalanche of goals by the Coyotes in the third put away a 4-0 victory for Phoenix.

What's extra frustrating for Chicago is that they nearly doubled Phoenix's number of shots on goal. Chicago held a 39-20 advantage in shots, but Coyotes goalie Mike Smith -- the No. 1 star of the game -- was up for the challenge, turning away the 'Hawks at every opportunity.

Gilbert Brule made it 2-0 Phoenix just two minutes into the third period. Antoine Vermette scored his fourth goal of the series on a power play 10 minutes later. Kyle Chipchura scored the last goal for the Coyotes.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 6: Phoenix Takes 1-0 Lead Into 3rd Period

The Chicago Blackhawks hold a large advantage in shots on goal after two periods at the United Center, but it's the Phoenix Coyotes who hold a lead heading into the third period of Game 6. Phoenix's Oliver Ekman-Larsson beat Chicago goalie Corey Crawford with seven minutes remaining in the second to give the Coyotes a 1-0 lead at the United Center heading into the final period. A loss tonight would end the Blackhawks' season.

The 'Hawks have outshot Phoenix 28-7 through two periods. The Coyotes hold a 29-20 advantage in hits. Chicago has won 23 faceoffs, compared to 17 for the Coyotes.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Michael Jordan Sports Jonathan Toews Jersey At United Center During Game 6 Of Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 6: 1st Period Ends In Scoreless Tie

The Chicago Blackhawks are facing elimination tonight against the Phoenix Coyotes in Game 6 of their opening round series in the 2012 NHL playoffs. After one period at the United Center, the 'Hawks and Coyotes are stuck in a scoreless tie.

The Blackhawks dominated the action in the first period, but couldn't light the lamp. Chicago finished with a 16-2 advantage in shots on net. The Coyotes hold a 19-10 edge in hits, and a 9-7 advantage in faceoff wins after a period.

There were two penalties in the first period. Phoenix's Kyle Chipchura served two minutes for holding Chicago's Dave Bolland. Duncan Keith of the Blackhawks also was whistled two minutes for delay of game after shooting the puck over the glass.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: Shaw Excited For Return, Hopes To Bring 'Gritty Play'

The dynamic rookie forward, C Andrew Shaw, returns on Monday night in Game 6 of the Chicago Blackhawks-Phoenix Coyotes playoff series. He was suspended three games after hitting G Mike Shaw in Game 2 of the opening playoff series. According to Shaw, the suspension will add caution to his approach, but not spoil his intensity:

"Obviously I’m going to play the same way, maybe stay out of it after the whistles. I have to play between the whistles," Shaw said. "But still have that gritty play."

Team captain C Jonathan Toews echoed Shaw's sentiments, saying the team looked forward to having Shaw's drive back on the ice:

"We want him to keep playing hard, and obviously as a team we have to be smart," Jonathan Toews said. "But the physical play and the energy he brings, don’t want him to temper that at all."

Through his 37 games with the team, Shaw led the Blackhawks with a 16.2 shooting percentage (goals divided by shots on goal) and compiled 23 points with 12 goals.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Marian Hossa Injury: Hossa With Team In Chicago, Out For Game 6

After the hit he took from Raffi Torres in Game 3 of the Chicago Blackhawks first round 2012 playoff series with the Phoenix Coyotes, it's hard to imagine Marian Hossa being back on the ice any time soon. That said, the Blackhawks have been pretty mum on Hossa's injury and recovery, only noting that he will not play in Game 6 on Monday night. But Hossa hasn't disappeared, as Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times reported on Monday that Hossa was out at the United Center and is reportedly feeling better.

Marian Hossa is out tonight but he's at the United Center today. Told he's doing better. #Blackhawks

— Adam Jahns (@adamjahns) April 23, 2012

The Torres hit on Hossa, which threatened to send the Blackhawks/Coyotes series into total chaos, punctuated what has been an especially violent first round across the league.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: Chicago's Flight Home Delayed 6 Hours On Sunday

The Blackhawks' charter flight out of Phoenix was delayed about six hours on Sunday, pushing the team's arrival in Chicago back from early afternoon to 7:41 p.m. CT. The team took the delay in stride, according to Brent Seabrook.

"I don’t know what happened," defenseman Brent Seabrook said. "The guys were all upbeat, hanging out downstairs, having lunch together. It's not a bad thing. It's good to be around the guys this time of year.

Related: VIDEO: Jonathan Toews Overtime Goal Gives Blackhawks 2-1 Win

After getting off the plane, Jonathan Toews said his plan was simply to go home and go to bed.

Chicago hosts Phoenix in Game 6 of their first round series on Monday night.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: Andrew Shaw Will Play In Game 6

Andrew Shaw drew a three-game suspension following a hit on Phoenix Coyotes goaltender Mike Smith in Game 2, and with Chicago's overtime victory in Game 5 on Saturday night, both Shaw's and the Blackhawks' seasons were extended. Shaw is now eligible to return to the ice in Game 6 of the series, which is set for Monday night.

Andrew Shaw will play in Game 6 #Blackhawks #Coyotes

— Adam Jahns (@adamjahns) April 23, 2012

Related: VIDEO: Jonathan Toews Overtime Goal Gives Blackhawks 2-1 Win

Shaw does not have a point in the postseason; in 37 games with the Blackhawks during the regular season, Shaw scored 12 goals to go with 11 assists.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

VIDEO: Jonathan Toews Overtime Goal Gives Blackhawks 2-1 Win

Despite trailing most of the game, the Chicago Blackhawks managed to stave off an aggressive Phoenix Coyotes offense, overcome eight minutes in penalties from LW Viktor Stalberg and score two goals late to guarantee a Game 6 in the 2012 Western Conference Quarterfinals.

Just 2:44 into the overtime period, Blackhawks captain C Jonathan Toews won his face off against C Daymond Langkow, redirecting the puck to Stalberg. The left wing then dished the puck back to Toews, who escaped some heavy traffic along the wall, to find himself free, approaching an unprotected G Mike Smith:

The goal, which delighted the strong contingent of Blackhawks fans at the Jobing.com Arena, elicited some less-euphoric reactions from the beaten Langkow:

And the nonplussed Coyotes upper management:

With the 2-1 overtime win, the Blackhaws will return to Chicago for a Game 6 at the United Center.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes Score Update: Nick Leddy Ties The Game At 1-1

The Chicago Blackhawks, lingering on the brink of elimination, have managed to tie the game with only minutes remaining in the third period. The Blackhawks missed a key opportunity early in the third period as the Phoenix Coyotes spoiled a power play following an C Antoine Vermette penalty.

But D Nick Leddy took advantage of the increased Chicago pace and aggressiveness and fired a long shot past G Mike Smith for a game-tying goal. Here is video of the shot:

Meanwhile, LW Viktor Stalberg has drawn all four of the Blackhawks' penalties -- all minor -- but the team has managed to fend off the Coyotes attack to keep the game locked at one each.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes Score Update: Blackhawks Trail 1-0 After 2 Periods

The Chicago Blackhawks continue to trail the Phoenix Coyotes 1-0 heading into the third and final period.

The Blackhawks have out-shot the Coyotes through the first two periods, firing 22 shots on goal to the Coyotes' 14. But with the Coyotes winning more faceoffs (24-18) and snagging more takeaways (5-2), the Phoenix offense has managed to make many more quality shots on G Corey Crawford and the Blackhawks defense.

RW Michael Frolik (4 SOG), C Dave Bolland (3 SOG) and LW Viktor Stalberg (3 SOG) have all applied pressure to G Mike Smith, but a trio of two-minutes penalties from Stalberg have kept the Blackhawks shorthanded most of the night.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes Score Update: After Scoreless First Period, Phoenix Takes 1-0 Lead

The Chicago Blackhawks, trailing the Phoenix Coyotes 3-1 in the first round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs, have fallen to a 1-0 deficit early in the second period. After neither side was able score in the first period, it appeared the Blackhawks had the statistical advantage, shooting three times as many shots as the home team, but the analysts were not convinced:

We're through one and it's still 0-0. #Blackhawks outshoot Coyotes 12-4, but still don't think a lot of those shots tough 4 Smith.

— Tracey Myers (@TramyersCSN) April 22, 2012

And then, just minutes into the second period, the Phoenix offense broke through for a C Gilbert Brule goal and Coyotes 1-0 lead:

The Blackhawks had a 5-on-3 power play midway through the first period, but the Coyotes defense stymied the Blackhawks offense.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, Game 5: Corey Crawford Will Start In Goal For Chicago

After some speculation, it's been reported that Corey Crawford will again get the nod in net when the Chicago Blackhawks play the Phoenix Coyotes in Game 5 of the teams' opening round series in the 2012 NHL playoffs.

Crawford will start tonight for the #Blackhawks

— Adam Jahns (@adamjahns) April 21, 2012

Crawford has started every game of the series thus far for Chicago. He's played well throughout the series, but let in game-winning goals in overtime during Game 3 and Game 4 that were perceived as "soft". Ray Emery started 27 games for the Blackhaws during the regular season.

The 'Hawks enter Game 5 down 3-1, and need a victory to stave off elimination.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Raffi Torres Suspension: Phoenix Forward Draws Third Longest Suspension In NHL History

NHL dean of discipline Brendan Shanahan finally dolled out his ruling on the vicious hit Phoenix Coyotes forward Raffi Torres laid on Marian Hossa of the Chicago Blackhawks in Game 3 of the teams' opening round series in the 2012 NHL playoffs. It isn't pretty for the Coyotes. Torres has been suspended 25 games, which happens to be the third longest suspension in NHL history.

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Blackhawks RW Will Not Travel To Phoenix

The longest suspension ever was given to Marty McSorley for his infamous cheap shot on Donald Brashear on Feb. 21, 2000. After being convicted of assault with a weapon, McSorley's suspension was extended from the remainder of the 2000 season (which ended up being 23 games) to one full year following the conviction. Chris Simon of the New York Islanders was given a 30-game suspension in 2007 for attempting to injure Jarkko Ruutu of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Simon also received a separate 25-game ban in 2007 for his slash to the face of

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Raffi Torres Suspended 25 Games By NHL For Hit On Marian Hossa

The National Hockey League's Department of Player Safety announced on Saturday that Phoenix Coyotes forward Raffi Torres has been suspended for 25 games for striking Blackhawks forward Marian Hossa in the head during Game 3 of the Western Conference Quarterfinal matchup on Tuesday. The suspension will carry over the 2012-13 regular season, if necessary, and Torres will forfeit $21,341.46 in salary for every regular-season he misses due to the ban.

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Blackhawks RW Will Not Travel To Phoenix

NHL Senior VP Of Player Safety Brendan Shanahan explained the reasoning behind the league's ruling with a video breakdown and point-by-point analysis of Torres' illegal hit. Shanahan pointed out that (1) Torres violated the interference rule because the hit came long after Hossa lost the puck, (2) Torres violated the illegal check and charging rules by targeting Hossa's head and leaving his feet to deliver the check and (3) Torres is a repeat offender on late hits to the head violations. Here is the video:

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks Game 5: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

Game 5 is set for Saturday night in Phoenix.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: Chicago Police Superintendent Calls Raffi Torres Hit 'Borderline Criminal'

Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy attended Game 3 of the Blackhawks-Coyotes series and witnessed the illegal hit Raffi Torres laid on Marian Hossa. When asked his opinion of the hit, he did not mince words, going so far as to say Torres should be banned for life from the NHL.

"It was borderline criminal conduct. Hockey is a tough game that's played rough. But if you play fair, [it's] not dirty."

[snip]

"[Torres] was acting insane. He was cursing the fans and pointing his stick at them. What Torres did could jeopardize two careers and two livelihoods."

"What happened should merit a lifetime band from the National Hockey League."

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Blackhawks RW Will Not Travel To Phoenix

The Coyotes and Blackhawks return to the ice for Game 5 on Saturday night.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Raffi Torres Suspension: Ruling From NHL Will Come On Saturday

Phoenix Coyotes forward Raffi Torres has already missed one playoff game after an illegal hit to Chicago's Marian Hossa -- a hit that sent Hossa to the hospital. On Friday afternoon, Torres met with the NHL to discuss the matter, but the league will not make a ruling until Saturday.

The NHL said Friday that it will not announce it's decision regarding Torres' suspension until Saturday. Torres had an in-person hearing with NHL disciplinarian Brendan Shanahan at noon on Friday at the league's New York offices.

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Blackhawks RW Will Not Travel To Phoenix

Chicago will definitely be without Hossa for Game 5, which is set for 9:00 p.m. CT on Saturday.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Marian Hossa Injury: Blackhawks RW Will Not Travel To Phoenix

The Chicago Blackhawks will be heading to Arizona without RW Marian Hossa, according to Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times:

Marian Hossa is not traveling with the #Blackhawks to Phoenix.

— Adam Jahns (@adamjahns) April 20, 2012

Hossa took a monster hit from LW Raffi Torres in Tuesday's 3-2 overtime loss to the Phoenix Coyotes. The hit landed Hossa on the sidelines with an injury and delivered Torres an indefinite suspension.

Through the regular season, Hossa led the team with 77 points on 29 goals and 48 assists. He missed only 1 game all season, playing a career-high 81, the third time in his NHL career he has accomplished the feet.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: G Cory Crawford May Not Start Game 5

With the Chicago Blackhawks trailing the Phoenix Coyotes 3-1, the Blackhawks are considering making a change at the net. According to coach Quenneville, the team is "talking about" potentially replacing starting goalie Corey Crawford:

Q says "we're talking bout that" re goalie for tomorrow. No annoucement

— Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiHawks) April 20, 2012

So far in the playoffs, Crawford has managed a .900 save percentage with an average of 2.64 goal against per game. During the 2011-12 regular season, Crawford played in 57 games and sported a .903 save percentage and a 2.72 goals against average.

The Blackhawks' backup goalie, Ray Emery, played in 34 games, briefly taking over as the starter, and finished the year with a .900 save percentage and 2.81 goals against average.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: Chicago Loses 3-2 In OT

After a big comeback, the Chicago Blackhawks didn't last long in the overtime period of a 3-2 defeat against the Phoenix Coyotes on Thursday night. The Blackhawks scored twice in the final ten minutes of the game to force overtime, but quickly unraveled defensively to lose the game.

Just over two minutes into the overtime period, Phoenix's Mikkel Boedker got an open route to the net against Chicago goaltender Corey Crawford following a scrum on the other it. Racing down the ice, he slid the puck right between Crawford's legs for the game-winning goal, stunning the crowd of over 22,000 at the United Center:

It was the first shot attempt by either team in the overtime period, but that was all that was needed. The Coyotes now have a 3-1 advantage over the Blackhawks in the seven-game series with things going back to Phoenix for Game 5 on Saturday.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks Score Update: Overtime Next After Wild Third Period

The Chicago Blackhawks and Phoenix Coyotes are going to overtime for the fourth consecutive time after a wild third period between the two teams on Thursday night. A frantic Blackhawks comeback culminated late in the third period with the game-tying goal after things seemed dire once Phoenix took a 2-0 lead early in the third period.

Roughly seven minutes into the period, Phoenix's Shane Doan scored his first goal of the postseason to give the Coyotes a 1-0 lead. Less than a minute later, the Coyotes got an insurance goal from Taylor Pratt to take a 2-0 lead.

But roughly midway through the period, the Blackhawks cut the deficit to 2-1 on goal from Brendan Morrison, and then Michael Frolik came through with the big score as time winded down:

With the Blackhawks going with an extra attacker and an empty net, the Blackhawks were able to get enough pressure on Phoenix goalie Mike Smith to get a puck past him. There was just 1:26 left on the clock.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: Chicago, Phoenix Still Tied 0-0 After Two Periods

The Chicago Blackhawks and Phoenix Coyotes are still knotted in a scoreless tie after two periods in Game 4 of the seven-game series between the two teams. The Blackhawks have been able to attack the net with far more ease than the Coyotes tonight, but the goaltending by Phoenix's Mike Smith has been superb so far.

Chicago has 23 shots on goal so far, but Smith has been perfect in keeping the Blackhawks off the scoreboard. The Coyotes have taken ten shots, with Chicago's Corey Crawford saving all of them. One shot nearly did get past Smith in the second period, though, but not until after a quick whistle by the referees that waived off the score:

Chicago's Michael Frolik nearly scored the goal on that play.

Phoenix leads the series 2-1 before the conclusion of tonight's game, with the teams going back to Phoenix for Games 5.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks Score Update: Chicago And Phoenix Tied 0-0 After 1st Period

The Chicago Blackhawks got off to a fast start on Thursday night after some changes -- 19-year-old Brandon Saad was a starter on Jonathan Toews line, for example -- but Phoenix goaltender Mike Smith was up to the task and Coyotes were able to weather that storm. After one period of play, there is no score.

Related: Coyotes at Hawks Game 4 1st Period Thread

Chicago out-shot Phoenix 11-5 in the period, and the Coyotes also blocked eight shots; the Blackhawks had the only power play opportunity of the first 20 minutes.

The teams are tied in the faceoff circle at 6-6, while the Coyotes hold a 13-10 edge in hits.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Joel Quenneville Fined $10,000 For Public Criticism Of Officiating

Chicago Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville publicly voiced his displeasure over the fact that no penalty was called on Raffi Torres for his hit on Marian Hossa in Game 3, and his comments ended up costing him some cash: on Thursday the NHL handed down a $10,000 fine.

After the officials failed to call a penalty on the Coyotes' Raffi Torres after the winger's hit on the Hawks' Marian Hossa that sent Hossa to the hospital during the first period Tuesday night, Quenneville said: "I saw exactly what happened, it was right in front of me and all four (officials) missed it, The refereeing tonight was a disgrace."

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Raffi Torres Suspended For Game 4, Hearing Scheduled For Friday

Torres has been suspended indefinitely by the NHL and has a meeting with league officials set for Friday.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: Hanzel, Korpikoski Out For Phoenix Again

The Chicago Blackhawks and the Phoenix Coyotes square off at 7 p.m. CDT on Thursday night, but both teams will be dealing with a number of key absences. Injuries and suspensions have forced the 'Hawks to scramble their lines, and according to NHL.com, the Coyotes will once again sit C Martin Hanzal and LW Lauri Korpikoski.

The duo are suffering from undisclosed injuries and have not played since Saturday night. Hanzal, who played 64 games during the 2011-12 NHL Regular Season, had the team's lowest shot percentage (5.5%) among the Coyotes' forwards, but he also finished the season with 26 assists, good for 5th most on the team.

Korpikoski ranked 6th in assists with 20 and played in all 82 games for the Coyotes. He finished the year with an 11.6% shooting percentage to go with 37 points overall.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: Chicago Hides Their Lines In Morning Skate

Dealing with the injury to RW Marian Hossa and the suspension of C Andrew Shaw, the Chicago Blackhawks elected to hide their new-look lines on Thursday morning's skate around. According to the Chicago Tribune, the 'Hawks players enjoyed the deception:

"We were watching you guys up there," Patrick Kane said with a gring after the pre-Game 4 workout. "You seemed to be pretty baffled, trying to look at the lines. It was a little comic relief for the players to watch you guys up there trying to figure it out. It was good to get a good laugh out of it."

Kane, the Blackhawks' star winger and one of two Blackhawks members to play in all 82 games, thinks the team should not miss a beat despite changing their lines:

"The lines have changed a lot over the year, the past couple years, everyone has pretty much played with everyone in here," Kane said.

"You get used to a player's tendencies and it's not too much of a change to be honest with you. I'm sure everyone is going to play with everyone anyways with the way things have been going. It's a good thing. It's good to have chemistry with every player in here."

Chicago will get their chance to test the new lines Thursday night at 7 p.m. CDT when they take on the Coyotes.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, Game 4 Preview: Can 19-Year Old Brandon Saad Be A Difference Maker?

The first round series between the No. 3 Phoenix Coyotes and the No. 6 Chicago Blackhawks got ugly in Game 3, and now Andrew Shaw, Raffi Torres and Marian Hossa will all miss what is sure to be an emotionally charged Game 4 on Thursday. Phoenix leads the matchup 2-1, but there is no doubt Chicago fans and players will be fired up after Torres knocked Hossa unconscious with a vicious hit in the middle of the first period, leading to Hossa being carried off the ice on a stretcher before being taken to the hospital.

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Forward Leaves On A Stretcher After Hit By Phoenix's Raffi Torres (Video)

Torres has been suspended indefinitely by the NHL and is still awaiting his formal hearing with the league office, but the Hawks have to move on and try to get a win on Thursday. Sam Fels at Second City Hockey broke down the options in front of head coach Joel Quenneville:

While I wouldn't call it the nuclear option, the Hawks need four lines now. They can't be skating with 10-11 forwards, and that's what they do when Brandon Bollig is around. I know, he's been slightly more effective, I guess, the past two games, but if he can't be trusted with more than six minutes than there just has to be other solutions. I also know that with the level of shenanigans there's going to be a desire for a "cop". But this is the point in a series when all that has to be put aside, and only hockey considerations should come into play.

Which is why I will not be shocked if one Brandon Saad draws in as well. I know most likely it would be ahead of Hayes, which would be unfair to Hayes as he's spent most of the second half of the season with the team only to watch some kid just out of junior vault ahead of him. But we know how fond Q is of Saad already, and Saad comes in playing the best hockey of his life. It's worked before, PK Subban stepped right in the 2010 playoffs and changed the dynamic of the Canadiens in a hurry.

No. 3 Phoenix Coyotes at No. 6 Chicago Blackhawks
7 p.m. CT Thursday -- Game 4, Western Conference Quarterfinals | Coyotes Lead 2-1
National TV: TSN, CNBC, RDS2 | Local TV: Fox Sports Arizona Plus, CSN Chicago

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes Game 4: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Chicago Blackhawks head into Game 4 against the Phoenix Coyotes down 2-1 in their opening round playoff series.

Marian Hossa Injury: Raffi Torres Suspended For Game 4, Hearing Scheduled For Friday

Phoenix Coyotes winger Raffi Torres will be suspended indefinitely by the NHL pending a hearing on Friday regarding his hit on Chicago Blackhawks winger Marian Hossa on Tuesday, according to Sean Gentile of the Sporting News. The Coyotes and Blackhawks play on Thursday, so the suspension will prevent Torres from appearing in Game 4 of the seven-game series.

Torres knocked Hossa unconscious with a vicious hit in the middle of the first period, leading to Hossa being carried off the ice on a stretcher before being taken to the hospital. The Coyote winger, who didn't receive a penalty on the play somehow, has a reputation for being among the dirtiest players in the NHL, so you wonder how the league will put that perception into considering for his punishment.

Given the nature of the hit and his past, though, it seems likely that Torres will be suspended for at least the remainder of the seven-game series between Chicago and Phoenix.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Marian Hossa Injury: NHL Will Have Disciplinary Hearing For Raffi Torres "ASAP"

Head disciplinarian Brendan Shanahan has levied a number of suspensions in the first round of what has become a contentious, violent 2012 NHL Playoffs, but his handling of Phoenix Coyotes winger Rafi Torres' hit on the Chicago Blackhawks' Marian Hossa will be his highest profile decision of the postseason yet. With fervor over the hit threatening to dominate every storyline regarding the series, Shanahan and the NHL will reportedly hold a disciplinary hearing "ASAP" in order to decide the length of Torres' suspension, if one is handed out.

Marian Hossa Injury: Joel Quenneville, Jonathan Toews Rip Referees

The NHL has not yet said if, or for how long, it will suspend the Phoenix Coyotes' Raffi Torres for his first period hit on Marian Hossa that resulted in the Chicago Blackhawks star being taken off the ice in a stretcher. Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville and captain Jonathan Toews, though, didn't waste any time laying into last night's referees after Chicago's 3-2 loss.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3 Final Score: Phoenix Prevails In Overtime

The Phoenix Coyotes took a 2-1 series lead by winning Game 3 of their opening round series in the 2012 NHL playoffs against the Chicago Blackhawks in overtime on Tuesday night. Phoenix's Mikkel Boedker beat Chicago goalie Corey Crawford with seven minutes remaining in the overtime session to give the Coyotes the win.

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Forward Leaves On A Stretcher After Hit By Phoenix's Raffi Torres (Video)

Game 3 will be remembered for two things: Raffi Torres' vicious hit on 'Hawks star Marian Hossa in the first period that caused Hossa to be taken to the hospital on a stretcher, and a wild third period that saw the teams exchange three minutes in less than a 1:30.

Andrew Brunette and Michael Frolik tallied goals in the game for Chicago.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: 'Hawks And Coyotes Headed To Overtime

For the third straight game, the Chicago Blackhawks and Phoenix Coyotes are headed to overtime after a wild third period at the United Center. Chicago took a 1-0 lead into the third, but the teams head to overtime tied 3-3 after a back-and-forth period characterized by quick scoring.

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Forward Leaves On A Stretcher After Hit By Phoenix's Raffi Torres (Video)

The third period saw all three goals scored in under 1:30. Phoenix's Rostislav Klesla finally got the Coyotes on the board by scoring his first goal of the playoffs off assists from teammates Mikkel Boedker and Boyd Gordon. The Blackhawks would immediately respond when Michael Frolik beat Phoenix goalie Mike Smith to give the 'Hawks the lead again. Just :30 seconds later, Ray Whitney tied the game once again.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: Chicago Takes 1-0 Lead Into 3rd Period

After two periods at the United Center, the Chicago Blackhawks lead the Phoenix Coyotes 1-0 in Game 3 of the first round of the 2012 NHL playoffs. The second period was scoreless, but heated: the two teams scraped at the end of the second with goalies Corey Crawford and Mike Smith staring each other down before exiting the ice.

Patrick Kane's goal at the end of the first period remains the only score of the night.

Related: Marian Hossa Injury: Forward Leaves On A Stretcher After Hit By Phoenix's Raffi Torres (Video)

Four penalties were handed out in the second, three on Phoenix. Of note was Raffi Torres who whistled for two minutes for tripped Chicago's Viktor Stalberg. Torres laid out Marian Hossa of the Blackhawks in the first period. He should soon be hearing from the same league officers that suspended Chicago's Andrew Shaw for three games for his Game 2 hit on Smith.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Marian Hossa Injury: Forward Leaves On A Stretcher After Hit By Phoenix's Raffi Torres (Video)

Chicago Blackhawks star forward Marian Hossa exited on a stretcher during the first period of the Blackhawks' Game 3 matchup against the Phoenix Coyotes. Hossa was leveled by Phoenix's Raffi Torres, who left his feet to label Hossa on a seemingly dirty hit.

Here's the video:

Here's the hit in .gif form:

Torres was not given a penalty for the hit. During the first intermission, Blackhawks announcer Eddie Olczyk, a respected voice in the hockey community, said Torres should be given a 10 game suspension for the hit.

Before today's game, Blackhawks center Andrew Shaw was suspended three games for his hit on Phoenix goalie Mike Smith. It'll be interesting to see how disciplinary chief Brendan Shanahan deals with Torres.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: Chicago Leads 1-0 After 1st Period

The Chicago Blackhawks and Phoenix Coyotes seemed destined to head into the second period of Game 3 of their opening round series in the 2012 NHL playoffs in a scoreless tie, but Chicago's Patrick Kane had other ideas. Kane lit the lamp with :29 seconds remaining to give the 'Hawks a 1-0 lead after the first period at the United Center on Tuesday night.

Kane's goal was his first of the postseason. The assists were credited to Nick Leddy and Marcus Kruger.

There were only three penalties in the first period of Game 3, all three committed by Chicago's Brandon Bollig. Bollig was whistled for two minutes for roughing Phoenix's Kyle Chipchura three minutes into the game. Halfway through the first period, Bollig was called for roughing on star Raffi Torres and was given a 10 minute misconduct penalty.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Andrew Shaw Ruling: Blackhawks Center Suspended 3 Games For Hit On Coyotes Goalie

The Chicago Blackhawks will be without their young and dynamic center in Tuesday night's game against the Phoenix Coyotes. According to Bob McKenzie of TSN, C Andrew Shaw's three-game suspension is being upheld by the NHL league office:

CHI's Andrew Shaw suspended three games for hitting PHX goalie Mike Smith.

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) April 17, 2012

The reactions to Shaw's suspension, which comes as a result of potentially an unintentional hit, have stirred some early controversy among local sportswriters:

#shawfact Star on Star crime in NHL = $2,500 fine.. Role player on Star crime ='s 3 game suspension #nhldisciplineisajoke

— Pat Boyle (@CSNBoyle) April 17, 2012

Shaw will miss Tuesday night's game against the Coyotes as well as Thursday's and Saturday's game.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Andrew Shaw Ruling: Blackhawks Center Waiting To Hear From NHL

The Chicago Blackhawks continue to wait on the NHL's ruling on the three-game suspension for C Andrew Shaw. The 20-year-old rookie hit Phoenix Coyotes G Mike Smith in Sunday night's game, drawing a penalty and an ejection at the time. Shaw maintains that the hit was accidental, but the league will ultimately make the final decision on whether or not he can play in Tuesday night's Game 3.

Shaw participated in the morning skate, according to The Chicago Tribune, but still does not have any indication on whether or not the league will suspend him:

"It's a long process," Shaw said Tuesday. "They don't want to make the wrong decision. They take their time with it and they'll let me know when they know."

The young center played in 37 games for the Blackhawks in the 2011-12 season and scored 12 goals on 74 shots to lead the team in shot percentage (16.2%).

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Mike Smith Injury Update: Coyotes Goalie A Game Time Decision Against Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks got some unexpected news on Tuesday afternoon. Phoenix Coyotes G Mike Smith, who sustained a massive hit on Sunday's game, may not be available for the Tuesday night's Game 3:

Tippett said Smith is gametime decision. But reiterated he was fine to finish game

— Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiHawks) April 17, 2012

The Blackhawks and Coyotes are tied 1-1 in the opening playoffs series after the Blackhawks completing a stunning 4-3 win in overtime. Smith finished Sunday's game despite the hit, and C Andrew Shaw, who delivered the hit, was ejected and is currently battling a suspension decision from the NHL league office.

Smith led the NHL in goalie point shares and was third in the league with a .930 save percentage.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes Game 3: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The Blackhawks-Coyotes series shifts to Chicago on Tuesday night.

Andrew Shaw Hit: Ruling From NHL Won't Come Until Tuesday

ESPN Chicago's Jesse Rogers updated the Andrew Shaw situation on Monday evening; the Chicago Blackhawks forward isn't going to hear the league's ruling on his hit until Tuesday. Rogers speculates that it could be tied to Mike Smith's status for Tuesday night's game.

I just confirm decision on shaw is tomorrow...has to come before game time...dont know why not today...could be smith health?

— Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiHawks) April 16, 2012

Related: Do The Dramatic - Blackhawks 4, Coyotes 3

Rogers guesses that either both will play, or both won't.

Shaw met with officials in the NHL's Department of Player Safety on Monday, and most expected a decision from the league later in the day.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: Chicago Recalls 6 Players To The Playoff Roster

The Chicago Blackhawks added six minor leaguers to the playoff roster on Monday -- five from their AHL team in Rockford and one from their OHL team in Saginaw.

The Blackhawks recalled six players to the playoff roster Monday, five from AHL Rockford and then also [Brandon] Saad from the Ontario Hockey League's Saginaw Spirit.

The players brought in from Rockford: forwards Jeremy Morin and Brandon Pirri, defensemen Joe Lavin and Ryan Stanton and goaltender Carter Hutton.

Related: Do The Dramatic - Blackhawks 4, Coyotes 3

Saad appeared in a couple of regular season games with Chicago this season.

The Blackhawks are back at home on Tuesday night for Game 3 of their opening round series against the Coyotes.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Andrew Shaw Hit: Blackhawks Rookie Unsure About Suspension Decision

The Chicago Blackhawks are still waiting to hear back from the NHL league office concerning the C Andrew Shaw suspension, but the 20-year-old rookie feels confident the league has already decided on the matter:

"I’ve thought about [what I’m going to say], but they’ve probably made their decision by now," Shaw said Monday after practice at Johnny’s IceHouse West. "I’ll respect the outcome. It’s their decision. They know what’s appropriate."

Shaw hit Phoenix Coyotes G Mike Smith in the second period, but contests the collision was an accident and not worth a suspension:

"I’m upset I made contact. I didn’t try to," Shaw said. "I tried getting out of the way. It’s just that last-minute [instance] of his head coming forward kind of looked bad...

"No [I did note reach out to Smith], but I saw his [quotes]," Shaw said. "He said he was 100 percent OK. I’m glad. You never try to go out there and try to hurt somebody deliberately. An accidental collision like that, I’m just glad he’s OK."

The Blackhawks resume their playoff series against the Coyotes on Tuesday night at 8:00 p.m. CT.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Andrew Shaw Hit: Blackhawks Forward Has Hearing With NHL Dept. Of Player Safety On Monday

On Saturday night, Chicago Blackhawks Andrew Shaw dealt a blow to the head to Phoenix goaltender Mike Smith, which resulted in his ejection from the game. The NHL is reviewing the matter, and on Monday Shaw will meet with the league's Department of Player Safety, and he could be facing a multi-game suspension.

The Blackhawks' feisty rookie winger has a Monday hearing with the NHL's discipline honchos regarding the second-period, shoulder-to-head collision that had Smith writhing on the ice for a few minutes in a Game 2 Hawks' victory Saturday.

Related: GIF: Mike Smith Popped, Niklas Hjalmarsson Crushed

After the game was over, Shaw said the incident was an accident.

The Blackhawks defeated the Coyotes 4-3 in overtime on Saturday to even their series 1-1.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: Andrew Shaw Could Face Further Discipline For Hit On Mike Smith

After getting a misconduct penalty and being ejected from Saturday's game, Chicago Blackhawks forward Andrew Shaw could face further discipline for hitting Phoenix Coyotes goalie Mike Smith in the second period of Game 2, as Jesse Rogers of ESPN Chicago reports.

At the 7:11 mark in the second period, Smith was behind the goal trying to corral the puck when Shaw slammed his shoulder into the goalie's head. Smith immediately grabbed his head while falling to the ground, where he laid for minutes while being attended to by trainers.

Shaw commented on the play after the game:

He went to play the puck. His stick came up towards my face and so I tried to get away from it and unfortunately I made a little contact. I'm glad he's OK.

Shaw was given a five-minute misconduct penalty for the hit in addition to being ejected. There's an automatic $200 fine levied on Shaw for the penalty, and the play is still under further review by the NHL. Considering the league's apparent efforts to improve dealing with head injuries, you'd expect it to take plays like this seriously.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes Final Score: Bryan Bickell Scores Game-Winning Goal In OT

The Chicago Blackhawks, after having chased the Phoenix Coyotes almost the entire game, managed not only a last-second, game-tying goal at the end of the third period, but somehow managed to cap the comeback with a win when LW Viktor Stalberg intercepted a Coyotes pass and slid the puck to LW Bryan Bickell.

Bickell, who had scored the game's opening goal, quickly shot the puck for a stunning 4-3 overtime win:

Just as the weather had turned to lighting, thunder and rain in Chicago, an exhausted Blackhawks team was mounting an overtime comeback against the Coyotes.

Elite G Mike Smith fended off 46 of the 50 shots on goal, but his .920 save percentage proved insufficient as the Blackhawks fought furiously to tied the game late. The series now moves to Chicago's United Center as the Blackhawks look to build a 2-1 advantage.

Other notable performances include the work from D Brent Seabrook and D Duncan Keith -- both of whom played in excess of 30 minutes on the ice, helping to hold the Coyotes to only 30 shots on goal. In addition to Bickell's two key goals, RW Patrick Sharp and LW Brandon Bollig both added goals of their own.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes Score Update: Patrick Sharp Forces OT With Last Second Goal

The Chicago Blackhawks, trailing the Phoenix Coyotes 3-2 in the final period, came within inches of tying the game when the 'Hawks fired laser beam attempt through the defenders but into the snaring glove of G Mike Smith:

But the Blackhawks, scrambling to fire a shot in the fading seconds of the period, managed to dish the puck to Patrick Sharp for a key, game-tying goal:

For Blackhawks fans, the sight of elite goalie Mike Smith as he smashes his stick into the unbending ice may seem the most sweet of images.

For those fans, here is a GIF of that very moment:

The Blackhawks enter their second straight overtime game hoping for better results than their Thursday loss.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

GIF: Mike Smith Popped, Niklas Hjalmarsson Crushed

With the Chicago Blackhawks trailing the Phoenix Coyotes 3-2 heading into the third period, the second game of the Chicago-Phoenix playoff series has taken a physical turn.

Midway through the second period, G Mike Smith found himself behind the net, trying dish the puck out, but C Andrew Shaw came speeding around the back and collided with Smith. The collision drew a misconduct penalty has was ejected for the hit:

The hard hits continued as Niklas Hjalmarsson took a harsh blow later in the period:

The Blackhawks fell behind 3-2 after the Shaw penalty led to a power play goal. Chicago enters the final period trailing 3 goals to 2 and 1 game to 0.

Keep up to date on the game at the Blackhawks-Coyotes storystream.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

VIDEO: Brandon Bollig Scores On 39-Foot Shot, Vermette Responds With 2nd Goal

Trailing the Phoenix Coyotes 2-1, Brandon Bollig managed to gain an edge on the Phoenix defense and fire a long-distance shot for a 39-foot goal and 2-2 game.

Here is video of the impressive shot, courtesy of Comcast Sportsnet:

The Chicago Blackhawks could not maintain the tie, however, as Antoine Vermette responded less than 2:00 minutes later with his second goal of the game. On a power play following an Andrew Shaw penalty, the Coyotes crowded the Chicago defense, slipping the puck past G Corey Crawford:

With the second period drawing to a close, the Blackhawks will look for some quick scoring and staunch defense to keep from a 2-0 deficit.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes Score Update: Phoenix Takes 2-1 Heading Into 2nd Period

After taking a quick 1-0 lead in the first period, the Chicago Blackhawks find themselves trailing the Phoenix Coyotes 2-1 in Game 2 of the 2012 NHL Playoffs opening series.

After a slashing penalty on LW Antoine Vermette gave the Blackhawks a power play, LW Bryan Bickell managed to sneak a 12-foot backhand shot through for the game's first goal. But the Coyotes fought back and managed three shots within 30 seconds with the fourth shot landing for a LW Raffi Torres goal and 1-1 game.

The Coyotes took the lead late when C Jonathan Toews drew an interference call against G Mike Smith, and Vermette turned the ensuing power play into a goal and 2-1 Coyotes lead.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks Game 2: Radim Vrbata Set To Play

After falling in game one of their series against the Phoenix Coyotes, the Chicago Blackhawks know how important it is to avoid a 2-0 hole. However, avoiding that deficit will be even more difficult tonight, as Brian Hamilton of the Chicago Tribute reports that Radim Vrbata will return to the lineup after playing only a couple shifts in the first game of the series:

Radim Vrbata will play in Game 2 on Saturday night after skating just two shifts of a series-opening victory two nights earlier, Coyotes coach Dave Tippett announced after the team's morning skate in Scottsdale, Ariz.

"He's going to play," Tippett told reporters.

Vrbata took a first-period hit from the Hawks' Andrew Shaw and did not return to Game 1 on Thursday night. The former Hawk castoff amassed a career-high 35 goals this season -- basically responsible for one of every six Coyotes' tallies.

Vrbata spent two season in Chicago and amassed just 27 goals over the two season. However, since joining Phoenix for the 2009/2010 season, Vrbata has emerged as a steady goal-scoring threat.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago. For more in-depth coverage of this series, visit Blackhawks blog Second City Hockey and Coyotes blog Five For Howling. For more NHL Playoffs coverage, head over to SB Nation's NHL news hub.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks Game 2: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

Game 2 between the Blackhawks and Coyotes is set for Saturday night.