They're hitting hard and hitting early, as Ryane Clowe drew a boarding penalty in the first minute of play and the San Jose Sharks had to fight off a big power play for the Chicago Blackhawks. A couple great Antti Niemi saves later and the Sharks were out of the power play, which saw plenty of chances for Chicago as San Jose failed to clear it on numerous attempts.
Both teams are commiting turnovers, but it's not so much to sloppy play as it is stellar defensive play for both units, limiting the chances of one another. Following the power play, it was more of the same: hard hitting, turnovers and overall a fast-paced game. The Blackhawks have done a fantastic job of keeping the puck in the Sharks' zone and are out-shooting San Jose thus far 9-5.
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