Two games in and this series has taken more twists and turns than a Bavarian pretzel. You'd think the Hawks were playing the Canucks! You couldn't write a script and have it turn out any more unpredictable. The funny part is how similar both games have unfolded with some common themes:
Act 1: Get out to a fast start and build an early lead.
Act 2: Hurt one of the other teams important players and get him out of the game early.
Act 3: Give up the lead and trail for a good portion of the game.
Act 4: Wait until the dying seconds of the game before tying it.
Act 5: Lay it all on the line in overtime.
This is why I love sports. Unscripted drama played out by athletes playing with passion. And that's what the playoffs are all about.
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Chicago sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
It's "will" over "skill" at this time of year, and that's exactly what is happening on the ice. The Blackhawks upped their "passion play" in Game 2, almost hit as many Coyotes as they had shots on net (which is always a good idea in the playoffs) and put Phoenix on the ropes just prior to Bryan Bickell scoring the biggest goal of his young NHL career. As with any great drama this story has plenty of great subplots, many of which will be reported on in the next couple of days.
The good news for us sports lovers, this thriller isn't even halfway over.