HAWKS RUN OUT OF GAS VS. ROCKIES 

If you were only able to watch the first period of the Blackhawks game vs. Colorado on Sunday evening, then you are in for some disappointing news. Despite them taking it to the defending champs and leading 4-1 at first intermission, Chicago was not able to hold on for the victory. And it was not even close. The experienced Rockies displayed composure, resolve and incredible skill in a 9-5 comeback win.

"We almost had 'em," joked forward Bill Guerin after the game, "But no lead is safe against a team like that. If only there was a rule in place to crack down on all that depth. We just have to do even more next time."

Nobody in Chicago should complain about Guerin's effort in this game. The 2nd year star scored 3 goals and added 1 assist in 21 minutes of ice time. He teamed up with rookies Bryan Smolinski and Petr Nedved for 9 points and a plus 7 rating to limit Colorado's top line. It didn't matter in the end as 2nd liners Igor Larionov (3G, 2A) and Russ Courtnall (2G, 3A) carried the visitors to go on an 8-1 run during the final 40 minutes.

The Blackhawks, now 1-11-1, weren't given a chance in this game, so the fact that they put up 5 goals shows a little progress after they only scored 7 in four losses to the Rockies last season. Or it may just have been a sleepy night for backup goalie Murray Bannerman, but we are trying to stay positive here. Either way, things get much easier for the Blackhawks over the next 6 games vs. the Ducks, Islanders, Sharks, Leafs, Nordiques and Sabres. Hopefully they can get a few wins during this stretch.

ESPN Radio Chicago