BLACKHAWKS BANTER 2

As hopeful fans piled into a sold out United Center on Tuesday the night, The Blackhawks welcomed nearly 20,000 people back with a 1-4 loss to the New York Islanders.  The 532 consecutive sellout game was set to begin with a pre-game show at seven, where all players and coaches were introduced.  Fan favorites included the leadership squad; Connor Murphy, Alex DeBrincat, and Patrick Kane.  When number nineteen was introduced, a standing ovation overtook the announcer’s voice, as captain Jonathan Toews took the ice for the first time since March 2020.  Toews took last season off to focus on his health, although he never disclosed what was going on the Blackhawks family stayed hopeful for his return.  As a three time Stanley Cup champion, 19 is a big presence in the center for the Chicago team and was a missing piece in last season’s lineup.  Nicknamed “Captain Serious” Toews is a highly respected player in the league, and has won over the Blackhawk’s fanbase.  On the other hand only several minutes earlier booing filled the stadium when head coach Jeremy Colliton was introduced.  He didn’t seem to be surprised by the reaction of the home crowd, and even admitted to being prepared for it “Hey, we’ve all got pride. We play for Chicago, we play for the fans and the organization.  We want to win.  I understand people care.  We’re just going to dig in.” Colliton’s words sound promising for a bright continuation following a rocky start, to the 2021 campaign.  The Hawks are back in action at home on October 21 against the Vancouver Cannucks.