Blackhawks Vs. Lightning Game Preview

After topping the Florida Panthers 3-2 in a shootout on Thursday night, the Chicago Blackhawks (8-2-2) move on to the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa for a 6:30 PM CST Friday night matchup against the Lightning (5-5-2). If the Hawks can earn a victory over the Lightning they can sweep their two-game Florida road trip.

The Hawks are now officially red hot, posting a stellar record of 7-1-2 in their last 10 games. Tampa has been more inconsistent on the season, but they have been fairly solid at home, sporting a 3-1 record at the St. Pete Times Forum. Hawks defenders would be wise to keep Marc-Andre Bergeron in their sights, as the Lightning defenseman has produced eight points over the last 10 games. Then again, Corey Crawford has been so good in net that it may not matter anyways.

Although this is the only regular season matchup between the Lightning and the Blackhawks this season, Crawford was very good against the Lightning in two games last season with a 1.93 GAA. Friday night's game will be broadcast in HD on the NHL Network and CSN-Chicago.

Stay tuned to SB Nation Chicago for more information, and for in-depth analysis on the Chicago Blackhawks be sure to visit Second City Hockey. Visit SB Nation NHL for more news and notes around the league.