Seattle Kraken v Chicago Blackhawks - Source: Getty — Nick Foligno on Chicago Blackhawks' development under Luke Richardson's replacement (Credits: Getty)

Nick Foligno makes his feelings extremely clear about Chicago Blackhawks' development under Luke Richardson's replacement

Modified Dec 20, 2024 10:41 GMT

Chicago Blackhawks' captain Nick Foligno shared thoughts about the team's development under interim head coach Anders Sorensen after the Chicago 3-1 win against the Seattle Kraken on Thursday. Sorensen took over as interim coach after Luke Richardson was fired on Dec. 5.

The win over Seattle marked the Blackhawks' third straight victory, improving their record to 12-19-2 on the season. Since Sorensen took over behind the bench, the team has gone 4-3-0 over the last seven games.

Foligno praised the style of play the team has adopted under Sorensen, saying:

"Anders says it’s not sexy, but it is. It’s good hockey. And that’s what guys are seeing...It’s tape-to-tape, it’s clean, it’s in the back of the net. Or it’s a breakout play that just looks so good and now you’re flying."

Nick Foligno pointed out that having three or four guys actively joining the rush helps in developing plays, thanks to their ability to skillfully execute those plays.

"It’s exciting to see our group understand that and get rewarded for that."

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On getting the three-game winning streak, Foligno said:

"I think it’s the first one since I’ve been here. It’s a good feeling.”

Foligno attributed the winning streak to the team's collective effort and belief in their objectives. He also expressed pride in the achievement and the expectation of continued improvement.

In Thursday's game, Ilya Mikheyev scored two goals while Nolan Allan added one for the Blackhawks. Ryer Evans scored the lone goal for the Kraken. Joey Daccord had 21 saves for Seattle while Arvid Soderblom made 27 saves for Chicago.

Chicago Blackhawks HC Anders Sorensen on 3-1 win against Kraken

Chicago Blackhawks coach Anders Sorensen credited the team's daily process and playing style for the 3-1 win against the Kraken.

“I think just the daily process of how we're doing things,” Sorensen said (as per NHL.com). “But even within our game, I think we're playing a bit more, we're hanging on to more pucks, I think we're making a bit more plays. We're a little bit more on the rush, maybe, which has been good.”

Sorensen pointed out that the Blackhawks are coming out of their defensive zone with numbers and as a connected unit, not just one player. This has been a big part of their improvement.

The Chicago Blackhawks will next face the Calgary Flames at Scotiabank Saddledome on Saturday.