The Chicago Blackhawks (41-23-6) aren't in much danger of missing the postseason, but after three straight losses, the prospects for defending their Stanley Cup championship don't look quite as rosy. Chicago will try to get back on track Wednesday (8 PM ET, NBCSN) against the visiting Philadelphia Flyers, who have won six of their last eight games to improve to 32-23-12, moving within shouting distance of a playoff berth in the East.
The Flyers will be playing on zero days of rest after hosting the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday. Philadelphia is expected to start Steve Mason (.915 save percentage) in both games, as Michal Neuvirth (.925 SV%) is battling a virus and hasn't played since March 3. Right wing Jakub Voracek (10 goals, 38 assists) won't play against Detroit because of a foot injury and might not play against Philadelphia, either.
Corey Crawford (.927 SV%) is projected to start in goal for the Hawks. He's working through his roughest patch of the season, losing seven of his last 11 appearances, including Monday's 5-0 defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Kings (+120 away). Fourth-line centre Marcus Kruger (zero goals, one assist) is the lone man on Chicago's injured list.
NHL : Flyers-Hawks on Wednesday Night Rivalry
The Chicago Blackhawks (41-23-6) and Philadelphia Flyers (32-23-12) have been through some battles since they were lumped together in the old West Division back in 1970. They'll meet again this Wednesday night at 8 PM ET on NBCSN.
The Blackhawks have lost three games in a row by a combined score of 13-4, while the Flyers have won six of their last eight to move back into playoff contention in the East. This will be their first matchup since October 14; Philadelphia won that game 3-0 as a +140 home dog.
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