Bickell aiming to build off solid Game 2

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Bryan Bickell said hell try to quell the confidence he got off his Game 2 performance, the one in which he potted the opening and, more important, game-winning goals.

After the last game, its a little high, Bickell said with a grin. But I need to ground myself. Its a new day, a new game.

Yes, Game 3 is a new game. But Bickell hopes he brings his Game 2 performance with him. The Blackhawks winger had a strong one on Saturday, tallying two goals and playing nearly 17 minutes. It was Bickells first multi-point game since March 18 against Washington, and it couldnt have come at a better time.

Hes a big body, hes skating well and finishing his checks, Patrick Sharp said. Hes the difference out there and he gets rewarded with a few goals.

Bickells current confidence is a far cry from what he was probably feeling through most of the regular season. Bickell was an on againoff again healthy scratch, and when he did play, he was very inconsistent. He started the season strong, with physical back-to-back games against the Dallas Stars. But that game was missing too often.

I had a rough season early, he said. Q has had confidence in me late, hes matched me against top lines and its been great. If we just keep it simple, get the pucks deep, out of our zone and play D first everything works out.

Indeed, lately, Bickells been playing the type of game the Blackhawks have needed all along: big, tough and very visible.

I thought he got more engaged physically in that game, coach Joel Quenneville said. I didnt mind that line. He had a more physical game, was in the puck areas. Hes got a nice shot; he made a nice quick, play on the tip on the first goal and had a good release on the second. Bicks can get hot. He has a deceptive shot.

If linemate Andrew Shaw is assessed any further games for his hit on Phoenix goaltender Mike Smith in Game 2, Bickells aggressive play and ability to crash the net will be needed that much more. Regardless, the Blackhawks need this Bickell in the postseason, the one who knows how to be physical and use that deceptive wrister.

He was at the right place at the right time, Dave Bolland said. Hes doing a great job out there. Using his body, doing the right things and playing his game.

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