Preparing For St. Louis

Hawks have decided to have "offensive" threats on every line. With Toews and Kane returning near or at 100%, the team is near fully rested. Coach Q has decided on an unusual line pairing for the first game. Saad- Toews- Versteeg No matter whom you pair up with Tazer he'll be fine. Stegger and Saad have been playing well off each other, and both show grit. This line is an unusual pairing, but it can work. Sharp- Handzus- Hossa This line isn't so far fetched. In fact, we've seen this line match-up throughout the year. Bickell- Shaw- Kane Putting Kaner on the third line to spark up what could be a REALLY interesting line up, is the most intriguing line configuration of all. I think this line could be REALLY dangerous. We shall see. Bollig- Kruger- Smith the 4th line that has been the 4th line for most of the year is a stable line that produces scorers from all three guys. The "shut down line". Morin will sit, but trust me, if Versteeg or Saad don't hold up their end of the bargain, or if Handzus rests with Smith taking that center spot, expect to Morin play in this first round. This is what the Hawks play for. Let's see what they can do in 2014.