Crawford to start in net tonight for Hawks

The Chicago Blackhawks will be giving Corey Crawford a chance after all. The goaltender who was called up on an emergency basis because of Cristobal Huet’s flu will start tonight in net against the Anaheim Ducks. From Chris Kuc of Chicago Breaking Sports -

“I just have to come in and play my game and just be focused and ready for every shot.” Crawford said after Wednesday’s morning skate. “Right now it’s just a one-game thing. That’s how I look at it. It’s kind of nice to get a game. I don’t know what else to think than just to be ready and be focused.”

Crawford hasn’t fared all that well in the NHL, with just one win out of seven appearances at the top level. But the Hawks are giving him a shot to show what he can do, and you have to think they’re running out of options on their end as well when it comes to the goaltending position.

Sure, it’s just one game. Sure, it’s only because Huet has the flu and the Hawks are playing tomorrow night as well. But what if Crawford plays great, and then Niemi throws up a stinkbomb tomorrow? Are the Hawks forced to give Crawford a chance?