April 20--Goaltender Corey Crawford had started every Blackhawks playoff game since 2011, a 58-game streak that ended Sunday when Scott Darling earned a 4-2 victory in Game 3 against the Predators.
Darling's performance was good enough for coach Joel Quenneville to give him another start Tuesday in Game 4, while Crawford took part in an optional skate Monday trying to hone his game.
Crawford projected positive vibes in his comments while saying the situation has been tough.
"Not going to lie, it was pretty frustrating at first," Crawford said. "I want to be in the net and I want to play ... but that's not my job right now. Right now my job is to battle hard in practice, be positive in the room and encourage the guys."
It's easy to do that when the Hawks win, and Crawford said he's happy for Darling's success on his path back to the NHL. The two have a good relationship, both said, and that has not changed when Crawford has gone to the bench in this series.
"Scott's an awesome guy," Crawford said. "He's gone through a lot to get here and he's been playing awesome. How can you not feel good for him? He's been great, and I'm just (going to) keep pushing him to be at his best."
Darling said Crawford has been a great mentor this season.
"He's teaching me tons," Darling said. "He's had tons of experience at this level and I've had very limited. I can't thank him enough for little life lessons and goalie lessons he's shared with me."
Crawford said he was "off" in Games 1 and 2, in which he allowed a combined nine goals, and has worked on seeing the puck better during practice.
During games, Crawford will go over what Darling is seeing on the ice and offer tips on how to attack certain players or advice on certain situations. Crawford's attitude and approach won't change in Game 4, even if it is tough to be sitting and watching.
"The only thing I can do now is be ready in case I have to go back in," Crawford said. "Other than that, encourage the guys, stay positive and make sure body language is good and everything is positive around here. There's a nice feel around the room and nothing negative."
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