Emery looks to improve already stellar home record

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Ray Emery doesnt have an explanation for his record at home. It is, as the old saying goes, what it is. And right now, the Blackhawks goaltenders home record is very, very good.

Emery is 10-0-2 at the United Center this season, and hell look to better that mark tonight when they faces the St. Louis Blues. For a goalie whos preseason numbers were not very good, Emery has been stellar this regular season. Hes lowered his season goals-against average to 2.66 and in his home games this season that number is a slick 1.70.

Considering his current play, Emerys arguably been the teams most-valuable player recently. But if theres some explanation to his home prowess, Emery doesnt know what it is. And hes not going to dwell on the numbers, either.

Each nights a new night, Emery said. And as soon as you start looking at that stuff, thats when you slip up.

Whatever the reason, the Blackhawks are grateful. For a team thats had its ups and downs the last month or so, Emerys been a relative constant. He deserved a better fate on Sunday, too, when he stopped five straight shootout attempts by the Los Angeles Kings.

Hes been consistent for us, coach Joel Quenneville said. Its unfortunate he stops five in a row in a shootout and we couldnt get him a win, but hes doing what he can. Hes big, hes square, he anticipates well and he has some confidence.

Emery has been what the Blackhawks have needed him to be this season, especially at home. Nobody knows why the home numbers are what they are. They just like the results.

Im a part of the team and its definitely a boost to play at home, but I dont know if you can read too much into it, he said. Each nights a different night. You just have to stay sharp and not get ahead of yourself.

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