Khabibulin came back to the United Center last night to take on his former team. Edmonton has been off to a hot start and are looking to be serious playoff contenders in the west. The Oilers have a young crew that people thought would blossom in a year or two, but not this early.
Chicago started the scoring by lighting the lamp twice early on in the first period. Montador and Toews each snapped in two goals while Keith and Carcillo added ones of their own. Chicago converted on 1 of 4 power plays, but they put the pressure on Khabibulin with 34 shots. This Oilers goaltender has rebounded well since his DUI incident. I, like many others thought he was passed his prime but he has been proving doubters wrong. Prior to this Hawks game, Khabibulin had been a league leading goaltender. Ryan Smyth was also all over the ice as he seems to be a rejuvenated Oiler since he has left LA. RNH, Eberle, and Hall are gelling quite well and could piece together a serious playoff run.
Brent Seabrook took quite a beating during last night’s game. Shortly after taking a high stick to the face he crashed into the end boards and left the game in the second period without returning. As of right now he is day-to-day with a lower body injury. This does hurt a bit seeing as how Chicago’s next game is against a Vancouver but not until Wednesday. Chicago continues to dominate as they are leading the league with 25 points and are now 11-4-3.
