^{Utah needs to not be mammoth sausage for a hungry Blackhawk team}

Tonight, Utah travels to Chicago to take on the still rebuilding Blackhawks. While Chicago remains winless, they had two strong showings against Florida and Montreal, losing both 3-2. Additionally, they took the Bruins to extra time, losing 4-3. Chicago is still technically in a rebuild, but their offense has been pretty decent to start the year. Utah needs to tighten up their defensive game, as Chicago has averaged over 2 goals a game now on some tough competition.

This should be a game for Stenlund and company to pad their faceoff stats. Chicago’s faceoff percentage has been bad – not Utah bad, but bad – so it’s a good opportunity to get some improvement on the year.

Sean Durzi out tonight, and for the next 4 weeks with an upper body injury. Looked like a clavicle, and hoping he’s got a quick recovery. Terrible news, considering how great he’s been to start the season. Rest up, Durz.

Key points to secure a victory tonight:
Convert on the Power Play. Chicago has the most penalty minutes in this early season, with 24 penalties taken (7 more than the Kings through the first 3). Expect to be up a man at least three times – and the Chicago PK is running just at 75%.
Faceoffs, like last game, need to be a priority. Chicago is winning only 40% of their faceoffs. This should be a confidence and stat booster. Cooley should be closer to the .500 mark, hopefully, which will allow him to continue to get better.
Vanacek’s performance. Vitek’s last game at the Delta Center went phenomenally for him and the team, but pre-season and regular season are a different beast. We’ve had 2 games of less than 2.00 GAA, so lets see if Vanny can keep that trend going.

Durzi out. Carcone in. Vanacek expected to start in net again tonight.

Expected Lineup:

Game time 6:30 PM local.

TUSKS UP!