Patrick Sharp returns as Blackhawks blank Minnesota Wild

Patrick Sharp was back and on top of his game as the Chicago Blackhawks blanked the Minnesota Wild 1-0 up in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Although he didn’t get on the score sheet, Patrick Sharp tallied the Hawks’ only hit in the 1st period, a big crush on Wild star Zach Parise. What should have fans furious is that Patrick Sharp was the victim of what should have been a boarding call, but of course the from-behind-hit into the boards went unnoticed. Sharpie was slow to get up, but didn’t go to the locker room. Refs missing calls on recently injured players in the NHL is a disgrace, especially when they are dangerous hits. Keep in mind the brutal hit on Marian Hossa last year that went uncalled.

Guest post by Scott King of Hawk Crazy and Class Act Entertainment

The bigger story than the return of Patrick Sharp was Ray Emery’s 3rd shutout in the last 5 games. It’s uncertain if Coach Q started Emery the last 3 games in order to prep him for the playoffs, or is he the new first string goalie? I think through more games this season, Crawford has indeed proved himself to be the number one goalie.

Hossa scored the only goal of the game with a filthy steal in the Wild’s defensive zone. The Blackhawks take on the Red Wings Friday at the United Center.  With Patrick Sharp back, it’s yet another scoring option for the Blackhawks who at 30-5-4 lead the Western Conference by 5 points over Anaheim.

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–Scott King