When the Chicago Blackhawks struggled in 2017-18 and missed the playoffs entirely, many pointed to the absence of starting goaltender Corey Crawford as a big reason why. Crawford had suffered a concussion in December and even through an attempted return never was quite himself until earlier this season, when he was back on the ice in October. Now, unfortunately for both the outlook of the season and Crawford’s career, the Blackhawks goaltender has suffered another concussion and is out indefinitely.
While speculating about brain injuries is never prudent, one has to wonder if this could cost Crawford the rest of another season and perhaps his career. The 33-year old goaltender suffered such long-term effects last time around that putting him back in the net during what looks like a lost season for the Blackhawks would likely be against his best interests. There obviously could be a potential for recovery, but given Chicago’s 10-19-6 record there doesn’t seem to be much point.
If this is the end of the year for Crawford, it would be the worst statistical season of his career. In 23 games he has registered a .902 save percentage and 3.28 goals against average, both low marks since becoming the full-time starter for Chicago in 2010-11. The team in front of him doesn’t help, but obviously all the time off due to his last concussion also played a part. There were times when Crawford looked every bit as good as his Stanley Cup-winning seasons, but others where he failed to find any real consistency on the ice.
New head coach Jeremy Colliton told reporters that the organization was “concerned” about the new concussion, and will now have to deal with a goaltending situation that is far from certain. The team currently has Cam Ward in the NHL and Anton Forsberg buried in the minor leagues, but will recall Collin Delia under emergency conditions and give him a chance at the highest level. For now, the team can only hope that Crawford’s long-term health is unaffected and he can get back to playing hockey in the future if he wishes.
Way to go strome, might have ended his career.
E. Kane drove Strome into Couture and Crawford. Did you watch the game?
Just the replay. Nothing wrong with what Kane did. Strome didn’t see Kane on his right side, he high sticked Couture in the face for whatever reason and when he tried turning right to avoid Crawford Kane is there, just poor awareness.
Not saying E. Kane was in the wrong, and the high stick was bad, but Kane was the driving force of the play. Bad play all around but a hockey play.
E. Kane plowed into everybody like a runaway truck. Crawford was the fourth domino, the goal post the fifth.
We will trade one Darling, Scott
no thanks. he was never that good. just a flash in the pan.