When Sharp got hurt, my first reaction was that the season was over. I really hope that's not the case, but I'm just not sure how this team, as it stands, is going to score goals. It's pathetic really. I pretty much despise any forward the Hawks are dressing right now, not named Toews, Hossa, Kruger, or Kane. The defense is solid, even if not contributing goals. They're doing their job, for the most part. The offense just can't finish the fucking job. At some point they have to take the blame for the inability to score goals. Yes, the goalies have been pretty good against them lately, but a lot of the problems are self inflicted. You have to bury the chances you get, because you usually don't get many in the NHL. That's just not happening.
Out of the forwards the Hawks have going into UFA or RFA, I think the only guy you offer a contract to is Kopecky... and not much more than he's making now. Brouwer, Stalberg, Frolik, Pisani, Johnson, Dowell? All of these guys are replaceable. Brouwer, Frolik, and Stalberg are all likely going to require raises, and not a single one of them is worth spending the money on. The Hawks have bottom six players...that you can't trust to kill penalties, or play solid defense. Pretty worthless.
On the Brouwer injury subject, is there even have a forward in Rockford that can step up and play with the big club? Like, seriously? Scott dressing, and more Stalberg in the top six... Fucking awesome. As bad as Brouwer has been, there's just nobody to take his spot.
I really thought the Hawks were a lock for the playoffs this season, but I'm starting to have serious doubts now. These last three games are going to be EXTREMELY tough. St. Louis is playing probably their best hockey of the season right now. Perfect timing. Detroit is always tough, and will be even tougher given the current roster. When you've had the injuries the Hawks have had, with the lack of depth up front, you're in trouble.
**** me.
