United Center

“Everybody was Kung Fu fighting (huh!). Those cats were fast as lightning (ha!). In fact, it was a little bit frightening (huh!). But they did it with expert timing (ha!).” 🥋

Carl Douglas

The tone for this hockey game was set during the pre-game announcements when fans were told that they must contribute if @nhlblackhawks were to be assured of a victory.

Many of the fans took this to heart and one sitting below us levied nearly continuous abuse of the glass separating him from the combatants. Based upon his body language I’m guessing that his comments were not affirming of the opposing players or the refs. 😳

While there was occasional booing for some of the penalty calls, the loudest boos initially seemed to be because there hadn’t been a fight…yet. Well it wasn’t too long before it was time to rumble! 🤜🤛

While the first fight was a little lackluster, the title bout lasted so long we thought there might be a 3rd intermission! 🤕 I learned that the quality of a hockey fight is also judged by the players and both teams applauded with their sticks when this one finally drew to a close. 👏

Also worthy of applause was @anthem_singer for his performance of the national anthem! 👍

Although this was just our 6th NHL game, we have a suggestion for @nhl to make these contests even more exciting. We noticed that just prior to each period the referees skated about the rink with great enthusiasm. Well how about sending out just one more ref than is needed each time and having them all duke it out Gladiator style to determine which one is benched for that period? C’mon, you gotta know that would take things next level and the crowd would go bananas! 🤯

We were impressed with the fully enclosed Uber Zone across the street from the arena which had us on the way back to our hotel within approximately 10 minutes of our arrival.

Visiting from San Diego we thought it pretty hilarious when the announcer proclaimed excitedly, “For the 1st time in the last 72 hours we’ve gotten up to 3 degrees here in Chicago!” 🤣

And that’s…Henry’s Take.

#chicagohockey

#kungfoofighting

United Center

1901 West Madison Street

Chicago, Illinois

(312) 455-4500