Duncan Keith on the Team's New Direction

By Ken Payne
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(front) Defesiveman Duncan Keith (Photo by Ken Payne)

Suddenly, without much warning, there seems to be a newfound fight in the Blackhawk's recent play. There also seems to be a new head coach. Coincidence? Don't bet on it. Since Dennis Savard has taken over head coaching duties for Trent Yawney the team has gone 4-3, which isn't great but does head in a better direction that the 7-9 record when Yawney was given the heave ho. With the change comes a new optimism amongst Blackhawk players as well as with the fans. Playoffs? Defenseman Duncan Keith thinks so. Here's what Duncan had to say about the new coach and team status after the Blackhawk's 3-1 win over Edmonton Sunday night.

Buzz S&E - What has been the biggest difference now that Dennis Savard runs the team?

Duncan Keith - Well, I think that now we are more of a pressure team. We're keeping the puck in the other team's zone because of that and we're creating chances. I think the team's enjoying playing this style. We're supporting one another out there and skating hard. We're making mistakes, but we're not dwelling on them.

Buzz - Is there a big difference in the Blackhawk's practice routine as opposed to Trent Yawney's?

Duncan - I think that they both give great practices and they're both great coaches. I think they have two systems that are a little bit different - this is more focused on building a foundation on defense. And that seems to have served us well so far. It's more of an up tempo speed game, concentrating on forechecking, putting pressure on the puck ALL the time, trying to control the play, and holding onto the puck - not give it to them.

Buzz - Putting pressure on the puck was the name of the game when you jumped out with two quick goals tonight.

Duncan - Forecheck gets guys into the game and creates pressure on their team's defense and causes them to turn the puck over. We did a good job of capitalizing on our chances.

Buzz - You've had some big players return from injuries as of late. Do you feel that this team is running close to 100% now?

Duncan - I think so. Our team's starting to take shape. We did a good job without those guys. Now, with them, it just makes us that much better. Obviously you can't replace players of that caliber. When they're in your lineup, it will definitely help your team.

Buzz - Big question. Is this team capable of making a run at the playoffs and making some noise if you get there?

Duncan - For sure. That was our goal in the beginning and now we are definitely in the race. We know we can do it, we've just got to keep believing.