The Chicago Blackhawks could be one of the biggest surprises this season, aside from the total collapse occurring in Philadelphia. While most, including myslef, expected very little from this franchise, even after several big trades that saw them acquire Martin Havlat from Ottawa, and Michal Handzus from Philly, Chicago has weathered some early adversity and appears to be making a push for the post season.

While a large part of their ressurgence has been because of forward Martin Havlat, who while only playing in 12 of the Blackhawks 32 games, leads the team with 11 goals, and has 21 points on the season. Havlat is also an impressive +13 rating and is obviously relishing the role of being the goto player on the team. The other big reason why the Blackhawks are turning it around. Goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin. Khabibulin has rediscovered his game that made him one of the most dominating netminders in the NHL, and helped bring the first ever Stanley Cup Championship title to the Tampa Bay Lightning franchise. Khabibulin has won 11 of his 19 starts for the Blackhawks including last night's 28 save performance that helped his team defeat the Colorado Avalanche 2-1. The Chicago Blackhawks now have 33 points and are just 2 points out of playoff spot in the Western Conference.

Quick Shave:
The New York Rangers have completed quite possibly the worst back to back performances in 10 years this weekend. Surrendering 14 goals in the outings. Last night they were completely outclassed by the New Jersey Devils who routed them for the second straight evening 6-1. Let's get it together blueshirts! The Nashville Predators edged the St. Louis Blues last night 2-1 in OT on a goal by Kimmo Timonen. The loss was St. Louis' 11th row, and it is not a question of if, but when they will start unloading their high priced veteran talent for draft picks and prospects.

Game of the Night:
Detroit at Columbus 7:00 PM
Calgary at Anaheim 10:00 PM

Both of these matchups look pretty interesting. Columbus came back down to earth after their winning streak, and will look to test themselves against the always formidable Red Wings, and Anaheim will be looking to rebound against the Calgary Flames after a tight loss to the San Jose Sharks. I don't really think we'll witness any HTC action tonight, but I'll take my chances on Lidstrom. Enjoy the games!

Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh