Blackhawks: Brandon Hagel’s first NHL goal comes in win

The Chicago Blackhawks ground out another big win over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday night.

They were tied at five in overtime and then won in a shootout after a gutsy effort once again. It was fun to watch but they earned the two points that they needed to stay right there in the cramped Central Division. This team works so hard and it was needed on a night like this. Normally, the Blackhawks hit the under every game but this 11 goal affair sure was something.

One of the highlights of the game was the first National Hockey League goal in the career of Brandon Hagel. He has been a treat to watch this season for a variety of reasons but he hasn’t been able to grab that elusive first goal. That all changed during the second period when he finally got one to give the Hawks a 3-2 lead in the hockey game.

Hagel is one of those guys who is just so easy to root for. He isn’t an offensive machine as he only had three assists going into this game but he works so hard and plays the game the right way. He will stick up for his teammates, be hard on pucks, and make the opposition hate him which is exactly what you need in your bottoms six forwards.

The goal scored by Hagel was assisted by Patrick Kane. Number 88 looked like a proud older brother when Hagel finally scored. That was one of four points that Kane had on the night to help this team to a victory. We can’t say enough about how awesome he is offensively and it has been said for over a decade now. What is truly impressive is how much of a leader he has become on and off the ice.

With Jonathan Toews out of the lineup, he is like the captain of the team which shows how far he has come. The Blackhawks are so lucky to have had Kane with them for so long. He has shown as much development with them as any player ever had before. Hopefully, the Hawks or someone else is able to give Kane one more kick at the Stanley Cup before his incredible career is over.

Kevin Lankinen giving up five goals is a rare sight to see. Outside of Kane, he has been the best player on the team this season. The good thing for Lankinen is that he made the saves when they mattered most and helped his team win. His performance in the shootout was awesome against some really talented shooters.

The Hawks and Jackets aren’t done this week. They have another one at the same time in the same building on Thursday night. It is going to be another game where you should expect the unexpected. The only thing that you can predict is that Kane will make a sweet play or two and the Hawks will need to work to win.