The Real Deal

On Sunday, the Chicago Blackhawks beat the San Jose Sharks 4-2, solidifying a spot in the Stanley Cup Final. With one of the best fan bases in the NHL, the Blackhawks will host the winner of the Eastern Conference finals at United Center. What does this mean? The Blackhawks have given a drought-plagued city a chance at a rare championship. The Cubs haven't won a World Series since 1908, and the Blackhawks haven't won a Stanley Cup since 1961, the longest drought in the NHL. Getting there wasn't an accident either. In my opinion, the Blackhawks are the best team in the NHL this year. Net-minder Antti Niemi has proven to be as outstanding in the postseason as in the regular season. No matter how good the other team is, he is just a little bit better. Meanwhile, in front of opposing goalies stands human wall Dustin Byfuglien. He scored 3 game winners in the series against the Sharks, and has scored 8 this postseason. He acts as a screen to block the vision of opposing goaltenders, allowing stoppable pucks to turn into scores. Also, defenseman Duncan Keith has shown his incredible effort night after night. With the most ice time of anyone, Keith took a puck to the face in Game 4 against the Sharks, knocking out 4 teeth. What did he do? Pick them out and keep playing. If one moment could define the Chicago season, it would be this. As for the Eastern Conference winner, well, good luck.