John Gibson outstanding: Quick hits from Blackhawks-Ducks

ANAHEIM, Calif. – The Blackhawks had a few of their top guys sit out Thursday’s game against the Anaheim Ducks. Considering where they are in the standings and this being Game No. 81, that was expected. Considering these Ducks-Blackhawks games can get physical to downright nasty – and this one did – it was probably best some of the top guys were out.

Anyway, the regular season is almost over. Before we head to No. 82, let’s look at the notables from No. 81, a 4-0 loss to the Anaheim Ducks.

What Worked: The Ducks’ opportunism. Anaheim had a lot more to play for on Thursday and when they had a scoring opportunity, especially with the Blackhawks missing three of their top defensemen, they took advantage of it. Corey Perry’s power-play goal was ultimately enough to win it, and he was wide open when he scored it.

What Didn’t Work: Finding the rebounds. They were there to be had for the Blackhawks, no doubt. But whether it was the Blackhawks not being there for them or the Ducks keeping them from them, the Blackhawks couldn’t corral any of those potential second opportunities. You could also include the Blackhawks’ power play, which went 0-for-3 (including a three-minute power play in the third), in this category.

Star of the game: John Gibson. The Blackhawks had some quality opportunities on Thursday night and the Ducks goaltender was up to stopping them all. He was especially good midway through the third period, when the Blackhawks were on a three-minute power play and came up empty.

He Said It: “We’re coming back on Saturday with one more game, so let’s try to do the right things and get ready. We still have to play one more game, that’s the focus. In the past we’ve been in this situation before. Playing for keeps is what our team likes to do but let’s not look past [Los Angeles.]” Coach Joel Quenneville on the Blackhawks wrapping up the regular season on Saturday.

By the Numbers: