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Blackhawks turn to Scott Darling in goal for Game 3 vs. Predators

Photo by Michael Martin/NHLI via Getty Images

Scott Darling was one reasons the Chicago Blackhawks came from behind and won Game 1 of their series against the Nashville Predators. He wasn’t rewarded for being the savior and was in his familiar position as backup in Friday's Game 2. But Corey Crawford faltered again and head coach Joel Quenneville decided to make a change.

“Scotty is coming off a spectacular outing,’’ Quenneville said ahead of Sunday’s Game 3, via the Sun Times. “I think his play is deserving of getting the start here at home.’’

Darling relieved Crawford after the first period in Game 1 and stopped all 42 shots he faced during Chicago’s 4-3 overtime win. Crawford allowed three goals in the opening period of Game 1 and all six in Game 2. This is either a change to wake up the guys playing in front of Darling and Crawford, a potential changing of the guard, or both.

But is it too early to turn to Darling? The series is only 1-1 and Game 2 was a one-goal game in the third period until a disastrous 2:19 span for the Blackhawks when Nashville scored three times.

The Committed Indian is in Crawford’s corner:

If Corey Crawford has proved anything, it’s that he deserves the benefit of the doubt. We can literally go down the list of times he’s bounced back from stinkbombs if that would make any one feel better.  But I really don’t think this warrants that.

All that being said, knowing how negative the energy might be at the United Center on Sunday with the mob looking to turn on Crawford at the first sign of distress, I can’t really blame Quenneville if he decides to give Darling another shot.

But let’s not kid ourselves if it does go down that route. Darling left a ton of rebounds for Nashville in Game 1 and on their second look at him, you may want to stick the “hot hand” down a garbage disposal. And then what?

Going back to Crawford in Game 4 should Darling be shaky on Sunday could depend on the result. Shaky, but victorious, ride with Darling. Shaky, but go down 2-1 in the series, well, hope that the guy you brought to the dance as your No. 1 still has his confidence.

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