Ever since the Blackhawks gained a point in the shootout loss and Detroit lost in regulation Thursday night, all Ive been hearing from Blackhawk fans is that they hope the team loses their season finale. IF they lose, that would leave them in sixth place facing either San Jose, L.A., or Phoenix.
If they win in regulation, they would clinch the fifth seed and face the Predators, with the first two games being played in the music city.
So now the debate begins, who do you want the Blackhawks to face in the first round of the playoffs?
Why fans are afraid of Nashville-
The Preds won the season series 4-1-1, which included back-to-back games before the all-star break and a 6-1 blowout on March 25.
Pekka Rinne saved 90 percent of the shots he faced against the hawks this season while giving up less than three goals per game.
Why fans should want to play Nashville-
The Blackhawks put up five goals on Rinne March 31.
They have also recorded at least a point in 15 of their last 17 games. That means they are playing well, and they have momentum on their side heading into the postseason.
NHL
And, its a nice short 90 minute flight to Nashville.
You really want to head West in the first round? Do you think L.A., San Jose or Phoenix are going to lie down for the Hawks?
Goaltender Jonathan Quick of the Kings has played VERY well against the Hawks this season - 3-1 record, giving up LESS than a goal per game with two shutouts.
This is only the second trip to the playoffs for the Kings in the last nine seasons, and you dont think their fans would be hyped up to host the first two games of the series?
And by the way, its a nice four-hour and 20-minute plane ride to L.A. That wont be fun for the Blackhawks if this series goes seven games resulting in three trips out west.
San Jose?
Did you see the Sharks-Kings game on Thursday night? That was intense. Even though the Blackhawks had the Sharks number in 2010, you cant assume the Hawks would skate into the Shark tank again and take the first two games, and Niemi has looked good of late, winning six of his last eight.
Phoenix?
Mike Smith had a 54-save shutout earlier this week, his third straight. So its safe to say hes trending up as the postseason nears.
Against the Coyotes this season, the Blackhawks have one win in four games.
Be careful what you wish for, Blackhawk fans. The bottom line is you should be rooting for your team to win every game.
You want the Blackhawks to reach the 100 point plateau, you want them to beat a rival and make the Red Wings head West for the first round.
It all makes sense, but if you really are cheering for them to lose tomorrow, turn in your Blackhawks fan card and your jersey because there are plenty of people who will be happy to take that from you and jump on board with the real fans.