Blackhawks vs. Predators Game 6 preview: Chicago determined to close out series at home

Scott Darling will be in net as the Chicago Blackhawks look finish off their series against Nashville Predators on Saturday night at the United Center. Despite giving up four goals in Game 5, three of which came during a short, sloppy two and a half minute stretch to begin the third period, the backup goaltender has gotten the nod from coach Joel Quenneville in hopes of finishing off the Predators on home ice in Game 6.

The Hawks have squandered 11 straight power play chances, several times going without a single shot on the man advantage since their come from behind victory in Game 1. The penalty kill has also been weak, allowing the Predators to score on power plays in all but one game, leaving much room for improvement on special teams on Saturday night.

The Hawks will need to play smart, controlled hockey in order to close out a desperate Nashville team. The Blackhawks have history on their side once again with a record of 8-0 in Game 6 clinchers.

Based on the morning lines, it doesn't look like we're getting a shakeup:

Saad-Toews-Hossa

Versteeg-Richards-Kane

Bickell-Vermette-Sharp

Desjardins-Kruger-Shaw

The defensive pairings will likely remain the same as well.

Likely scratches: Carcillo, Cumiskey, Rundblad, Paliotta, Nordstrom, Teravainen and Raanta.

Opponent Breakdown: Nashville Predators

Predators announced on Friday that defenseman and captain Shea Weber will not return to play this series after suffering a lower-body injury in Game 2. In his absence, Roman Josi and Seth Jones have stepped up and made significant defensive contributions, though they lack the physical presence and prowess of Weber.

Colin Wilson continued his stellar play on Thursday night, netting his fourth power play goal and fifth goal overall in the series, the most of any player in the playoffs to date. Additionally, the trio of Filip Forsberg, Mike Ribeiro and James Neal combined for six points on the night and demonstrated just how dangerous they can be.

Nashville lines in morning skate:

Forsberg-Ribeiro-Smith

Bourque-Fisher-Arvidsson

Cullen-Jarnkrok-Santorelli

Stalberg-Gaustad-Beck

Craig Smith and Colin Wilson did not participate.

Injury report

Chicago: None

Nashville: Shea Weber (lower-body, out for series) and Eric Nystrom (lower-body, day-to-day)

Game Information

When: 7 p.m. CT

Where: United Center

TV: NBC

Radio: WGN-720