is working because the Blackhawks lost their cool in Game 2, and made the foolish decision to try and do bodily harm to Blues players even if it meant blowing a one-goal lead … which they did.

That's why it's essential for the Blues to maintain their approach, and keep a lid on the extra mustard. I fully expect the Blackhawks to recollect themselves and play a more intelligent, controlled game Monday night at UC. The shift of the series to Chicago's ice gives the Blackhawks a chance to reopen the series, and play the game more on their terms. And when the Blackhawks play on their terms – and do what they do best – they're formidable.

Frankly, I'm stunned that the Blues have been able to unnerve theshould be better tonight. Obviously it's a bad break to have Backes out – especially with how it went down. happened. But the Blues have enough horsepower to play the system and put themselves in position to win.

* Seabrook's three-game suspension leaves a hole. He's an excellent player who served as a mainstay on Team Canada's gold-medal Olympic squad. Seabrook averaged 30 minutes of ice time in the first two games. He's an important piece in all three components: even strength, power play, penalty kill. Averaging 22 minutes per game, he had seven goals and 34 assists during the regular season. And in the postseason he's given Chicago 11 goals and 24 assists during his career.

* The Blackhawks know that Sobotka's knee was softened up by Bickell's leg