GO GO BIG-LIPPED MOFO! (Photo: Cheryl Adams/flickr)

Corey Crawford was named the NHL’s Second Star of the Week, sandwiched between the San Jose Sharks’ Patrick Marleau (channeling his Jeremy Roenick hatred into something useful?) and the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Martin St. Louis (who will always be Teeny Little Super Guy). (nhl.com)

While I think there are a couple of Blackhawks worthy of mention in this discussion (Marian Hossa and Patrick Kane, mostly), Crawford has been solid in net so far with a 1.78 GAA and .933 SV%. He was also a big reason why the Blackhawks were able to take last night’s game into overtime, with key saves while everyone around him was dying on their feet.

So, keep it up, Crawford. We’re counting on you (mostly because Ray Emery‘s hip isn’t fully functional yet, and the Blackhawks’ goaltending depth goes off a cliff after you two).

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DUMBASS! (Photo: Bridget Samuels/flickr)

Today is also Daniel Carcillo‘s 28th birthday. I know what you’re wishing for when you blow out your candles! (Hint: It’s a new knee!)

The Blackhawks are earning record ratings for Comcast Sportsnet. Last night’s game against the Detroit Red Wings earned a 6.31 rating in Chicago, breaking the record set five nights before, against the St. Louis Blues. Lockout? What lockout? (Chicago Sun-Times)

Finally, let’s all let out a collective “aww” for Marian Hossa’s baby girl, Mia, along with a very grumpy-looking bulldog.

Awww! (Photo: pluska.sk)