Blackhawks faceoff struggles continue, Moore’s absence certainly doesn’t help

Through 63 games this season, the Chicago Blackhawks sit 30th in the NHL when it comes to faceoff wins (46.5%). With puck possession being such an important aspect of the game, the Blackhawks have suffered in major areas such as shots on goal per game (last in NHL at 24.4 shots per game) as well as shots against per game (23rd in NHL at 29.3 shots against per game). Since the loss of Jason Dickinson and Nick Foligno, the Blackhawks have suffered in the faceoff department even more.

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In the 2 games since the trade deadline, the Blackhawks have won only 31 out of 97 draws (31.96%). This massive dip has caused the Blackhawks to be chasing the puck the majority of games, and made winning games that much harder for the young squad.

However, there may be brighter days ahead. Blackhawks star center Connor Bedard has made great strides in the faceoff department, going from 38.3% in the dot last season, to 45.2% this season. Still under 50%, but trending in the right direction.

The same can be said of the Blackhawks second line center, Frank Nazar. Nazar’s first stint in the NHL was brief, only 3 games, but he took 22 faceoffs, resulting in a 31.8% faceoff win percentage. Last season he improved to 44.6%, and this season he is winning 45.5% of draws.

In last night’s 4-3 OT loss to Dallas, Blackhawks 3rd line center Oliver Moore left the game early with a lower body injury. Moore has been one of the more consistent young Blackhawks on the dot (48.3%). Head Coach Jeff Blashill said Moore will be unavailable for tonight’s game, which hurts an already struggling center core.

With the final stretch of the season being all about player development and learning how to play “winning hockey” (a phrase often used by Jeff Blashill) faceoffs will be an area to keep an eye on.

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