Dave Bolland Archives

With last night's shootout loss to the Los Angeles Kings, the Chicago Blackhawks return home with a successful 9 points gained on the six game trip.  The team is healthier then when it left with the addition of Marian Hossa and the Hawks open December playing 8 out 10 games at the United Center beginning Tuesday night when they host the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Read the Chicago Tribune's Rick Morrissey and you'll be ready to start the playoffs tomorrow.  But, that's just the thing.  The playoffs are over four months away and that's a good thing for the Blackhawks.  This team will not go deep in the playoffs without a second line center.  While I share Morrissey's optimism, I have an issue with one of his statements.

I thought Dave Bolland was going to be a big loss, but the Hawks haven't missed a beat while he has been out with a back injury.

Rick, I respectfully disgree .  While the Hawks played good hockey on the road trip, the offensive shortcomings in the last two games should not be ignored.  Bolland is a huge loss for the Hawks.