How important is goal differential as a predictor for the playoffs? If so, despite everything the Hawks have the 2nd best GD in the West at +41 (St Louis is at +45) and the 4th best in the league. And despite the terrible defensive play at times, the Hawks are tied with Montreal for the Jennings trophy with 1 game to play. The problem is the offense, which is 5th out of 7th in their own division in goals scored, and tied for 8th in the West (and right in the middle - 15th in the league). The good news is that despite the struggles, the core of the Hawks is much better than their play this year. If we can get Kane back in the 2nd round (sorry I'll believe the 1st round talk when I see it), we should get a much needed boost.