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Winnipeg Jets drop a tight game versus the Chicago Blackhawks

The Winnipeg Jets have been playing better of late, but a trip to Chicago to face the Blackhawks is usually a recipe for pain.

Ten Thoughts:

1. Michael Hutchinson got the start in net for the Winnipeg Jets. Regardless of the outcome, this was the correct call. There is no reason to run Hellebuyck back to back, plus Hutchinson had a history of playing well vs Chicago. It was a good opportunity for Hutch to get his mojo back.

2. Hutch was just okay in the game. He was a little scrambly and let in a soft goal, but he stopped enough to give his team a chance.

3. As has been the case for most of the season, the Winnipeg Jts surrendered the first goal of the game. Marian Hossa was able to out-battle Bryan Little for a loose rebound in front of Hutchinson. He potted it. He is still very good.

4. The first Hawks goal was the second time the team had found twine. Their first goal was called back because it was directed in by a clear kicking motion.

5. Replays have been good to the Jets of late. A replay led to the afformentioned reversal as well as the Jets' first goal.

6. Chris Thorburn batted a great feed from Tobias Enstrom into the netting. The refs missed it and play continued for an extended period. The goal was clear via replay.

7. Through two periods, the game was tied and the Jets were the better team.

8. The Hawks came out with a ton of speed and generated a pile of pressure to start the third. They also scored a goal. It was a sift goal that Hutchinson would definitely like back.

9. Unfortunately for both Hutch and the Jets, this goal was a difference maker. The skaters were unable to muster a second goal despite a number of high quality chances.

10. The Hawks added an empty netter. All in this was a solid game and a strong effort by the Jets, they just need to score more.

Dang.

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