The Chicago Blackhawks did just about everything necessary tonight to pad their sixth place playoff spot lead with another two points, while narrowing the gap between themselves and their division rivals, the Nashville Predators, who sit just two points ahead in the Western Conference race.
The Blackhawks played a consistent and focused hockey game en route to their 5-2 win over the struggling Washington Capitals, who have Buffalo and Winnipeg right on their heals for possession of the eighth and final eastern conference playoff spot.
Rookie Andrew Shaw scored twice, Viktor Stalberg scored his 18th goal of the season, and Patrick Kane potted his 19th goal of the year just before Bryan Bickell sealed the win with his empty netter.
Click here to read my full game recap from tonight's Blackhawks win over the Capitals -
http://thecheckingline.co...kell-lift-hawks-over-caps
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