Hawks Double Up On Kings, Take 2-0 Series Lead

They say you're not in trouble until you lose a game at home in the playoffs. It's going to be a tall order for the Kings though. After a 4-2 loss last night against the surging Blackhawks, the Kings are now left with the unenviable task of winning four of the next five if they want to advance to the Stanley Cup final for a second straight season.

The Hawks scored early and often in game two, getting four goals from four different players before the game was even half over. Andrew Shaw opened the scoring just 1:56 into the first, and Brent Seabrook added another in the final minute of the period on a beautiful three way passing play between him, Marian Hossa and Jonathan Toews. Bryan Bickell would score the eventual game winner on a power play in the second, and Michal Handzus would add another just over two minutes later.

The Handzus goal spelled the end of the night for King's goalie Jonathan Quick. Quick, who many consider to be leading the Conn Smythe Trophy race, was replaced with young Jonathan Bernier, making the first post-season appearance of his career. It was undoubtedly a frustrating night for Quick, who hadn't allowed more than three goals yet these playoffs. He was left out to dry by his defense all night, as Chicago had many grade-A scoring opportunities, and Quick was just off his game enough to get beat on too many of them. Usually known for their staunch defense, the LA defenders made far too many mistakes. By the time they settled down, the game was already over. Benier was excellent in relief, stemming the tide and not allowing a goal. However, there is no doubt in anyone's mind that Quick will start game three at home.

The Kings did mount a small comeback, scoring a goal late in the second and another late in the third to cut the lead in half, but it wasn't enough to beat the Hawks who are now rolling with five straight wins. Game three goes Tuesday at the Staples center, and the Kings are going to have to play their best game of the year if they want to make this a series.

Thanks for reading. Please comment and share if you like the content here at WAAP. I leave you with a gif of one of the more interesting moments in last night's game. There was a scrum in front of the Chicago goal, and Hawks goalie Corey Crawford got involved, prompting this reaction from Bernier. I think he want to go!