[thefoss1957]

As many of you here are aware, if my avatar hadn't given it away, that I am a Blackhawk fan, a fan long enough to have been attending games when their nickname was TWO words.

The 'Hawks are off to a very odd start, setting a record for OT games to start a season, and having a couple of dismal defensive efforts along the way. Yesterday was historically bad defending, for instance, as we had a goaltender give up FIVE goals, yet, still was above 90% in save percentage.

After having missed the playoffs, last season, some fans are already calling for Q's head.

This is a typical post from a Chicago board after yesterday's game:
[From Mr. Caution] "There is a noticeable talent and coaching gap between the Bolts and the Hawks...The key for the kids on this team is to learn from it and grow. I don’t have much hope for our old and tired coach to do the same."

While I was disappointed, to say the least, about yesterday's game, and the recent lack of ability to hold onto late leads, I feel that the problem, in Chicago, at least, lies with Stan Bowman (in future posts to be referred to as, simply, Stan), and would be happy to elaborate on why I blame Stan, if anyone is interested.

But, the fact is, there is a feeling that the heat under Q's seat is increasing, and, looking around the league, Q isn't the only coach that will be feeling the pressure. McLellan better be praying that McJesus doesn't get as much as a hangnail injury, or he is through (although, with this tire fire of a franchise, I think one can look upstairs for the reason of imminent failure.). I can't feel that Blashill or Hakstol will have long leashes. Hines better hope that his hot start is maintained.

I throw it out to my friends here, at CalPuck. NHL coaches, rumors, or real pressure. It is as much a part of the league as the games themselves. Opinions on NHL coaching impressions.