Blackhawks vs. Predators: Chicago needs their stars for Game 4 in their most desperate hour

It’s hard to imagine a scenario in which the Blackhawks could be eliminated from the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs in back-to-back years. Even more so to imagine it coming in a sweep against the Predators.

That’s the kind of pressure Chicago faces coming into Game 4 in Nashville on Thursday. For a team with an incredible amount of All-Star talent, they’ve managed just two goals over three games. It’s a scenario that’s been dissected every which way for days, but game time is almost here.

Sweeping is one of the hardest things to do in a playoff series. But with the way Nashville has played, they look up to the task.

Chicago’s offense wasn’t enough to save them. Dennis Rasmussen finally got the Blackhawks on the board in Game 3, but instead of pushing the pace with a two-goal lead on Monday, they sat on it. The Predators made them pay with a pair of goals on 13 shots in the third period before winning in overtime. The Blackhawks may have finally gotten some offensive production, but it didn’t mean anything once they sat back defensively.

Pekka Rinne. The Predators’ netminder has been outstanding in this series, allowing just two goals on 97 shots. With Chicago in desperation mode, he’ll need to be on his game as the Blackhawks will likely throw the kitchen sink — and more — at him on Thursday.

Will the Blackhawks’ stars step up? Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, and Duncan Keith each have one point in this series. Artemi Panarin has none. Plain and simple, Chicago’s stars must have an impact in this game if the Blackhawks are to win and keep their playoff hopes alive.

The Predators. Despite furious pressure, Nashville’s defense and Rinne hold against the Blackhawks attack as they complete the incredible sweep.