Chicago Blackhawks: Despite Glaring Issues, 'Hawks Show They Can Man Up

The Chicago Blackhawks still have the same issues taken into their United Center showdown with the Western Conference-leading St. Louis Blues Tuesday night.

The 'Hawks have problems keeping the puck out of their net. They struggle to create solid opportunities while up a man. There are still key players missing from the lineup with no concrete timetable for a return.

Chicago was down 3-1 and reeling entering the second period of play Tuesday, fighting off a penalty with a new goalie in net. The Blues, along with Dallas, have been among the hottest teams in the league. With a two goal deficit, the going through the neutral zone was going to be anything but a picnic.

A few hours later, the Blackhawks were celebrating a 4-3 shootout triumph. Chicago proved at least one thing as we quickly approach single-digit games remaining on the 2011-12 schedule.

Yes, this team has flaws. This team also has some guts.

Corey Crawford came in to relieve starting goalie Ray Emery and put the clamps down for the remaining two periods. Crawford stopped just 18 shots on the night, but denied all three shootout combatants to pick up a big extra point for the 'Hawks.

Brandon Bollig's bout with Ryan Reeves (haven't we been here before?) in the closing seconds of the opening period drew an instigator penalty that had to be killed off to start the second. Nevertheless, from that point of the game on, the Blackhawks seemed to be a team on a mission.

In one of the season's more entertaining contests, Chicago chipped away and tied the game in the eighth minute of the third on a power play goal by Brent Seabrook. What could have been a demoralizing home ice loss to St. Louis results in a hope-inspiring show of fortitude. The 'Hawks can do no worse than split the season series with the Blues.

The result doesn't make Chicago's problems disappear. Niklas Hjalmarsson missed the third period and his status is uncertain for Friday night's game in Dallas. Toews return is still only a matter of discussion at this point.

Joel Quenneville rode the hot hand of Emery for a couple of weeks, but it's safe to say that the door is still open for change in net. I suspect we'll continue to see the 'Hawks coach employ a similar strategy.

Beating the Blues wasn't a cure-all for what has ailed the Blackhawks for large stretches of the season. However, it's nice to see a flash of heart as the playoffs approach.