Blackhawks' Point Streak Is About More Than A Record

By Rob Winn in News on Feb 19, 2013 5:30PM

Tonight the Blackhawks look to earn at least a point in their first 16 games of the season, which would tie the record set by the Anaheim Ducks during the 2006-07 season. The Hawks have already tied the points streak of 15 set by the 1984-85 Edmonton Oilers and surpassed the streak of 14 set by the 1943-44 Montreal Canadians. Other than the Hawks, what do all these teams have in common? They all ended the season as Stanley Cup champions.

The start to the Hawks' season is more than just a prolonged hot streak. They have won in every way possible, from back-up goalie Ray Emery stealing a game in Calgary to the offense scoring six goals against Phoenix. They are getting contributions from everyone on the roster, the third and fourth lines have already scored 11 goals and—surprisingly—goalies Ray Emery and Corey Crawford have combined for a .933 save percentage. The play they are getting from their top six forwards has been stellar. Patrick Kane leads the team with seven goals. Jonathan Toews and Marian Hossa aren't far behind with seven and six goals each.

This streak has continued even though parts of the Hawks' game sputtered. The power play has struggled at times. They went 2-for-23 on the power play during their recent six game road trip. However, their power play numbers are bolstered by a hot start to the season and several 5-on-3 goals, leaving them in the middle of the pack in the NHL. But no team is perfect, especially in the salary-cap era.

Tying the record set by the Ducks doesn't guarantee a championship or even a long run in the playoffs. As the Hawks have seen recently, star players can carry a team for a while, but it takes an entire team to become real contenders. The depth on the roster and steady play from the goalie position bodes well for an extended playoff run. Even the '84-'85 Oilers, who had some guy named Wayne Gretzky leading the way with 73 goals, were bolstered by the contributions of lesser known players like Jari Kurri with 71 goals and Paul Coffey with 121 points and a Norris Trophy. The Hawks' will need to keep finding different ways to win as the season continues and the playoffs start. But judging from the way this year has begun, the future looks bright.

Stats provided by hockey-reference.com