Lardis would start the scoring with a wrist shot behind Predators goaltender Juuse Saros at the 4:34 mark of the second period. The goal, Lardis’ sixth goal of the season, was assisted by forward Tyler Bertuzzi and defenseman Alex Vlasic.

Nick Lardis – Chicago Blackhawks (6) pic.twitter.com/yXpbLtOxLM

— NHL Goal Videos (@NHLGoalVideos) March 22, 2026

Forsberg would tie the game at 1-1 at the 6:31 mark of the middle frame scoring his 31st goal of the season assisted by Jonathan Marchessault.

Bedard would give the Blackhawks the lead beating Saros at the 13:57 mark for his team leading 29th goal of the season. The goal gave forward Ryan Greene his 17th assist.

Connor Bedard – Chicago Blackhawks (29) pic.twitter.com/Y2rFCxkatI

— NHL Goal Videos (@NHLGoalVideos) March 22, 2026

Halfway through the third period of action, forward Steven Stamkos scored his 34th goal of the season to tie the game at 2-2 and force the game into overtime. Forsberg and defenseman Roman Josi both assisted on the goal.

In overtime, Forsberg scored an unassisted goal after stealing a puck away from Blackhawks forward Andre Burakovsky and fired one top shelf to beat Knight for the game winner.

Filip Forsberg – Nashville Predators (32)
OT Winner pic.twitter.com/9kpCymXlCB

— NHL Goal Videos (@NHLGoalVideos) March 22, 2026

The Chicago Blackhawks return to action on Tuesday at 6 p.m. CDT to take on the New York Islanders at the UBS Arena. The game will be televised on CHSN and MSGSN.

Analysis

Bedard continues to just be elite every time he touches the ice. The third-year forward is a must-watch and must know where he’s at for all other teams that are facing the Blackhawks.

Chicago managed a point in what was a sleep walk of a game most of the night. The youngsters are learning how to play at this level, CONSISTENTLY, and will show signs of struggles and success sometimes on consecutive shifts. The growing pains are worth it.

The post RECAP: Forsberg scores twice as Predators beat Blackhawks 3-2 in overtime appeared first on The Rink.

First period

Despite six minutes of early power play time, the Hawks found themselves trailing 1-0 after 20 minutes. Artyom Levshanov turned the puck over along the boards and Filip Forsberg picked it up in the slot and fired a wrist shot top shelf for his 25th of the season at 13:50.

Second period

Connor Bedard tied the game at 1-1 with his career-high 24th of the season at the 4:13 mark. Ryan Greene snuck a pass from the half boards to Bedard in the slot, who snapped one past Annunen. The game would remain tied through two frames.

Connor Bedard for a career-high 24 goals pic.twitter.com/TLz6vyNy7G

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 27, 2026

Third period

The Blackhawks finally cashed in on their fourth power play of the game when Tyler Bertuzzi scored his 26th of the season at 3:16. Teuvo Teravainen lobbed a puck on net with Bertuzzi setting a screen. A rebound came right to Bertuzzi, who scored on the rebound to give Chicago a 2-1 lead.

Bertuzzi on the power play pic.twitter.com/5sbJQbRKJu

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 27, 2026

The Preds responded with a power-play goal of their own when Matthew Wood scored his 10th of the season at 7:12. Erik Haula retrieved the puck behind the net and found Wood open in the right circle and he snapped a shot past Knight to tie the game at 2-2.

With 3:15 left in regulatjon, Ryan O’Reilly broke the tie with his 21st of the season. Roman Josi led the rush and from the right circle, he threaded the needle and found O’Reilly, who tipped it past Knight to give the Preds a 3-2 lead.

With the Hawks’ net empty and the extra attacker on, Steven Stamkos forced a turnover on Frank Nazar at the Hawks’ blue line and fired the puck into the empty net for his 29th of the season at 19:12 to give the Preds a 4-2 lead, which was the final.

Analysis

Collectively, the Hawks looked rusty, as their puck management was awful throughout the game. The Hawks committed multiple turnovers, including two that led directly to Nashville goals. On the plus side, Knight had a strong game and Bedard was arguably the best player on the ice, as he looked refreshed and showed a ton of speed entering the zone.

The Rink would also like to congratulate Dana Grey, manager of communications and broadcasting for the Rockford IceHogs, who made his NHL debut calling the game on 720 WGN.

The Hawks will play the second game of this four-game road trip on Saturday in Denver against the Colorado Avalanche. Puck drop is at 5 p.m. CST on CHSN with the radio call on 720 WGN.

The post RECAP: Hawks fall 4-2 in Nashville following Olympic break appeared first on The Rink.

First period

The Blackhawks started off more on defense in the first period. Commesso got tested just over 30 seconds into the game, with Ryan O’Reilly getting a big chance on a rebound opportunity. He made another stop a few minutes later on Matthew Wood on another big rebound chance at the side of the net.

The Blackhawks got the first power play of the game with Erik Haula getting called for slashing on Ryan Donato. They could not convert on it, so the game stayed as it began going into the intermission 0-0.

Second period

The first five minutes of the second was all Blackhawks. Juuse Saros had to make multiple great stops to keep his team in the game, but proved up to the task. The Blackhawks got another power play, and this time made the Predators pay. Bedard got the puck in the left circle. He rushed to the front of the net, getting the puck over to a wide-open Tyler Bertuzzi. He buried the shot to put the Blackhawks up 1-0.

another power play goal from #⃣5⃣9⃣ pic.twitter.com/iKZIN5QbWl

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 11, 2026

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The Blackhawks gave up two more power plays to the Predators, but managed to kill them both off, keeping the lead going into the intermission.

Third period

The Blackhawks traded off power plays early in the period. They had the first one, but could not make anything of it, and Commesso again proved up to the task in keeping the puck out on the defensive end.

With just under nine minutes left in the period, the Blackhawks got another on the board. Kevin Korchinski, in his second game of the season, fed the puck along the boards to Bedard. He made a beautiful pass to a streaking Nick Lardis, who did not miss, putting the Blackhawks up 2-0.

another power play goal from #⃣5⃣9⃣ pic.twitter.com/iKZIN5QbWl

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 11, 2026

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The visitors would close it out with a Ryan Greene empty-net goal to seal the deal, 3-0 Blackhawks.

Analysis

This was a great bounce-back game from this team. Despite missing their top two goalies to the flu, Commesso came out and played outstanding. Could he have done better limiting rebounds? Yes. Could he work on directing them away from danger areas? Yes again. But, all things considered, it was a great effort for a first career win and shutout all in one. Bedard was sorely missed, and this game was won all due to his efforts. With both primary assists on the non-empty net goals, he set them up perfectly for his teammates to reap the benefits. Hopefully, both goalies will be back by Monday night, but even if they are not, there is a capable fill-in in Commesso.

The Blackhawks’ next game is on Monday night against the Edmonton Oilers. This game will be at 7:30 p.m. CST on CHSN.

The post RECAP: Commesso and Blackhawks blank Predators 3-0 in Nashville appeared first on The Rink.

#Blackhawks morning skate lineup:
Greene-Bedard-Burakovsky
Teravainen-Nazar-Bertuzzi
Donato-Dickinson-Mikheyev
Dach-Lafferty-Moore

Vlasic-Crevier
Kaiser-Levshunov
Grzelcyk-Murphy
Rinzel

Söderblom
Knight

Extra: Slaggert

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) November 28, 2025

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First period

There was a lot of back and forth in the first period, with both teams even in shots on goal, 10-11. The Blackhawks got a big opportunity late, though, and took advantage. Just after their power play expired, the Blackhawks caught Nashville in a change with Brady Skjei just getting back onto the ice. Ryan Donato, who drew the penalty, got the puck as he skated into the offensive zone. He wristed the puck past Juuse Saros, giving the Blackhawks a 1-0 lead with less than a minute to go in the period.

Ryan Donato, with cotton in his nose after taking a high stick, snipes his 8th goal of the season. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/xNK36zYGPc

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) November 29, 2025

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Second period

The second period would not got as smoothly. Just under two minutes into the frame, Nicolas Hague put the puck up off the side boards. It found its way to Matthew Wood, who made no mistake in putting the puck over the glove of Soderblom, 1-1. Then, a couple of minutes later, Soderblom made a huge kick save to keep the puck out of the net.

Five and a half minutes later, the puck found Steven Stamkos in front of the net. He buried the backhander past Soderblom, making it 2-1 Predators. With less than four minutes to go, the Blackhawks would answer. On the power play, Oliver Moore found Ryan Greene in front, who put a snap shot past Saros, 2-2.

another power play goal pic.twitter.com/DjMoIUP24C

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 29, 2025

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With “tree chirty tree” left in the second, the Predators would strike back. With Stamkos and Ryan O’Reilly cycling in the corner, the puck found its way to Luke Evangelista. He wristed a puck past Soderblom, giving the Predators a 3-2 lead to end the second.

Third period

After getting out-shot in the second period, the Blackhawks had the advantage in the third. Just over seven minutes into the period, though, the Predators struck again. O’Reilly got the puck all alone in front of the net and put it past Soderblom, 4-2 Nashville. Then, just over three minutes after that, Saros misplayed the puck coming off the boards. It found Teuvo Teravainen in front, who put it home to get the Blackhawks back within one.

BOOM BOOM BOOM pic.twitter.com/hoauy6joVh

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 29, 2025

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That would be all that the Blackhawks could muster, however, and the Predators took this one 4-3.

Analysis

The Blackhawks really need to figure out the second period. After a well-played first, they fell apart in the second, against a team that really has not managed to get much right this season, just like last year. Giving up multiple power plays, not getting the puck deep to make a line change when everyone is exhausted and letting yourself get caught flat-footed are all good ways to let up goals. Soderblom was left out to dry in this one more often than not, and made some big saves when he could, but cannot be expected to stop them all. Something has to give here, whether it be switching up the lines or going back to 12 forwards or something for the time being to shake this team awake.

On the plus side, the Hawks looked amazing in their black alternate jerseys, being worn for the first time in over a decade.

The Blackhawks’ next game is on Sunday afternoon against the Anaheim Ducks. That game will be at 2:30 p.m. CST on CHSN.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks beat by Predators 4-3 appeared first on The Rink.

First period

Nashville jumped out with a pep in their step and Chicago looked to be sluggish after playing on home ice the night before. Nashville outshot Chicago 17–6 overall in the period and the visiting team was lucky to escape with a 0–0 tie after one period of action.

“I think they kind of jumped on us in the first,” Alex Vlasic said during his postgame interview. “I don’t know what the shots were, but it definitely wasn’t pretty. I think they just kind of came with a little bit more jam. I think we kind of found a way to stick to it, and on a back-to-back sometimes it’s not going to be a pretty game. We gave ourselves a fighting chance.”

Second period

As the game of hockey goes sometimes, the team dominating the play on the ice is not always the first to score, as Vlasic scored his third of the season beating Predators goaltender Justus Annunen at the 1:56 mark of the middle frame.

Chicago put some sustained pressure in their own zone when forward Connor Bedard found Vlasic along the blue line, who fired a wrist shot through three Nashville players, one in which deflected the shot over the shoulder of Annunen, for the 1–0 lead.

Alex Vlasic’s shot from the point goes off a deflection and in, and he’s being credited with his 3rd goal of the season. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/O04SCZKdTp

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) March 9, 2025

Stamkos scored his first goal of the game beating Soderblom with a wrist shot only 40 seconds after Chicago took the lead. Chicago defenseman Alex Martinez took a double minor for high sticking and Nashville did not waste any time bouncing back from the Chicago goal.

Stamkos gave Nashville its first lead of the night, at the 12:20 mark of the period, when a loose puck found the stick of center Ryan O’Reilly, who made a slick backhand feed to Stamkos, who buried it to give Nashville the 2–1 lead.

Third period

Chicago would be completely outplayed again in the third period and the only player on the ice that was playing well was Soderblom, as he stopped 37 shots in regulation, while Chicago was only able to muster 19 shots in regulation.

One of those shots tied the game at 2–2 when Ilya Mikheyev scored his 14th goal of the season on a wrist shot at the 12:22 mark of the period. Nashville defense lost their structure and a feed around the boards to forward Ryan Donato led to a quick pass to Mikheyev, who slammed the puck home for the equalizer.

Chicago goal!

Scored by Ilya Mikheyev with 07:38 remaining in the 3rd period.

Assisted by Ryan Donato and Connor Murphy.

Nashville: 2
Chicago: 2#CHIvsNSH #Smashville #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/KlPHtx7qhK

— NHL Goals (@nhl_goal_bot) March 9, 2025

Overtime

Stamkos would finish off his hat trick at the 2:39 mark of the overtime as Fedor Svechkov found himself 20 feet outside of the crease and brought everyone to him and dish a great feed to Stamkos, who had a wide-open net to fire home the game winner. The overtime 3-on-3 nonsense bit Chicago in the behind with a late change that led Nashville on a 3-on-2.

HAT TRICK COMPLETED pic.twitter.com/PcQdVrPBpJ

— Nashville Predators (@PredsNHL) March 9, 2025

Chicago plays next on the road as they take on the Colorado Avalanche for a 8 p.m. CDT puck drop in Colorado on Monday.

Analysis

Chicago’s goaltending the past five games has been very good and that may be an understatement. Soderblom was fantastic in this one and the newly acquired Spencer Knight has been just as spectacular. After having to watch the goaltending struggle for months upon time, it is nice to see a stretch of hockey where the goaltending steals points.

Colton Dach continues to have an effect on games even when not putting up points and even stood up for a teammate by dropping the mitts. Dach has been one of the few Blackhawk forward playing with some grit and consistently playing through his man on the forecheck.

Chicago getting a point in five straight games is great to see. The goaltending has been spectacular, but sometimes a team is better with an “addition by subtraction” and the Blackhawks look to have found an extra gear in their skating. Let’s hope this continues over the next stretch of games.

The post RECAP: Chicago extends point streak to five in 3–2 overtime loss in Nashville appeared first on The Rink.

First period

After a bit of a slow start to the action, with two shots apiece through the first nine and a half minutes, the Blackhawks got something going. Alex Vlasic skated the puck in behind the net, feeding Frank Nazar in the circle, who buried his shot, giving the Blackhawks a 1–0 lead. It would not last long, though, as the Predators got a 2-on-1 20 seconds later. Colin Smith had a beautiful feed to Colton Sissons, and he snuck it past Mrazek, knotting things up at 1–1.

Just under six minutes later, though, the Blackhawks would retake the lead. Lukas Reichel had a great shot on net that got cleared out. The puck found itself on the stick of Pat Maroon, who made no mistake, giving the Blackhawks the 2–1 lead. They would take that lead into the intermission, with Connor Bedard taking a last-second penalty to put the Predators on the power play to start the second.

right on target pic.twitter.com/Z7Hxg4ucEi

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 8, 2025

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Second period

The Predators were not able to make anything out of that power play, but the Blackhawks gained one of their own a few minutes later. With Bedard not in the penalty box this time, he took a beautiful pass from Ryan Donato and buried a shot from the left circle, 3–1 Chicago.

CONNOR BEDARD

How about that release?! pic.twitter.com/5AWHJ8LrUq

— NHL (@NHL) February 8, 2025

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Just under 10 minutes later, the Blackhawks would put another one home. Donato took a pass from Teuvo Teravainen and put some moves on Juuse Saros to score his 17th of the season, 4–1 Blackhawks.

With nine seconds left in the frame, and the Blackhawks on the power play, Seth Jones got in deep and put home his sixth after a beautiful passing play all around from the Blackhawks.

Bedard Donato Jones

The @NHLBlackhawks are buzzin’ tonight! pic.twitter.com/oGCmjovTBC

— NHL (@NHL) February 8, 2025

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The second would end with Chicago holding a dominant 5–1 lead over Nashville.

Third period

Nashville massively outshot the Blackhawks in the third period, but it did not end up mattering much, as the damage was done. Donato picked up his second of the game streaking in alone against Saros, with a nice wrister over the pad.

POINT NO. 201 pic.twitter.com/FrTNHQW7P5

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 8, 2025

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The Predators picked up a goal late from Thomas Novak, but the Blackhawks cruised to a 6–2 victory.

Analysis

The Blackhawks looked light years better than the Predators did. This team reminds me of how the Blackhawks looked in the couple prior years to Bedard’s arrival. They were aging and had little to show with regards to prospects coming up to instantly improve the team. The Blackhawks looked like they had things together this game. This team played smart hockey, but also took it to the Predators when situations presented themselves. The penalty kill and power play took care of business, which is the best thing you can ask for from a team that is still a few pieces away from putting it all together. Donato continues to have himself a season, and I would personally love to see the Blackhawks re-sign him if a killer offer does not arise come the trade deadline, as he seems like a great team player to keep around.

For their next game, the Blackhawks are taking on the St. Louis Blues on Saturday night. That game will be at 6 p.m. CST on CHSN.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks back in win column, beat lowly Predators 6–2 appeared first on The Rink.

First period

With the Preds on the power play, Hawks killer Steven Stamkos scored his 18th career goal against Chicago to give Nashville a 1–0 lead. Stamkos received the puck near the half boards and to the right of Soderblom and he fired a shot that went in for his 15th of the season at 8:07.

Nick Foligno thought he had tied the game, however the officials immediately waved it off for goaltender interference. The Hawks’ challenge was unsuccessful and were shorthanded for the third time in the period. The good news is the Hawks killed it off and kept it a 1–0 game after 20 minutes.

Second period

The Hawks tied the game at 1–1 on Connor Bedard’s 13th of the season. Tyler Bertuzzi picked off a Preds’ clearing attempt and patiently found a wide-open Bedard in the slot, and he snapped a low shot past Saros at the 6:30 mark.

Music City Bedsy pic.twitter.com/5UJ3omOi4W

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 17, 2025

The Blackhawks took a 2–1 lead 87 seconds later when Alec Martinez scored his second of the season. Martinez fired a shot from the point that missed the net but caromed off the boards, off the side of the net and off the back of Saros’ pads and into the net at 7:57.

for the 2-1 lead pic.twitter.com/T4Jrz7YiHq

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 17, 2025

The Hawks held the lead through two.

Third period

With just over three minutes to go in regulation, the Preds tied it at 2–2. With the Hawks changing, Nick Blankenburg fired a pass from deep in his own zone to Filip Forsberg, who was just outside the blue line. Forsberg took a few strides into the zone and fired a rocket past Soderblom for his 13th of the season and 300th of his career at 16:57. The game would remain tied after regulation.

Overtime and shootout

Both teams exchanged grade-A chances but five minutes was not enough, so the game went to a shootout.

Gustav Nyqvist opened the shootout with a low shot that beat Soderblom, however Teuvo Teravainen matched him with a low shot goal of his own. Ryan O’Reilly followed with a slow approach and beat Soderblom. After Bedard was stopped, Stamkos won it with a shot over the blocker to win it for the Preds, 3–2 in a shootout.

Analysis

The Blackhawks put forth a much better effort and were rewarded with a well-earned point on the road, but the losing skid extended to four games. Soderblom made some huge saves in overtime to extend the game into the shootout, which is where he fell apart, allowing three goals on three shots. The Hawks return to the United Center on Saturday night when they host the Vegas Golden Knights. Puck drop is at 7 p.m. CST on CHSN with the radio call on 720 AM WGN.

The post RECAP: Hawks drop 3–2 shootout decision in Nashville appeared first on The Rink.

First period

The Blackhawks struck first when former Predator forward Craig Smith broke in 2-on-1 with Lukas Reichel, who fed Smith for the tap-in. For Smith, it was his third of the season at the 2:55 mark. Nolan Allan picked up the second assist for his first career point. The Hawks had a strong first period but only had one goal to show for it. The Hawks outshot Nashville 13–11 at the end of 20 minutes.

Second period

The Hawks took a 2–0 lead when Connor Bedard scored his second of the season. Alex Vlasic pinched in along the boards and fed Bedard in the slot, who one-timed it past Saros at the 5:14 mark.

The Hawks appeared to have taken a 3–0 lead on a power play goal by Teuvo Teravainen, however, Nashville challenged the play for offside. As a result, video review determined the play was offside and the call on the ice of a goal was reversed.

The disallowed goal may have jumpstarted the Preds, as moments later, Filip Forsberg scored his third of the season. Gustav Nyquist entered the zone and found Forsberg in the middle of the ice and he split the defensemen and skated in alone and beat Mrazek at 13:41 to cut the deficit to 2–1.

Nashville tied it at 2–2 when Nyquist scored shorthanded at 16:59. Seth Jones was stopped on a point-blank shot from the slot and the Preds attacked the other way. Nyquist skated in 2-on-2 on the left wing and fired a wrist shot past Mrazek. For Nyquist, the goal was his second of the season and 200th of his career. The teams were tied 2–2 after 40 minutes.

Third period

Nashville took the lead with a power play goal by Brady Skjei at the 13:07 mark. Skjei skated the puck up the right half wall and fired a wrist shot past a screened Mrazek for his second of the season to put the Predators up 3–2 and they held on for the win.

Analysis

A promising start turned into a disappointing outcome. The Hawks were flying in the first and jumped out to a 2–0 advantage, however, the game turned when a Hawks goal was overturned by replay in the second period. Credit the Predators for staying patient and mounting the comeback, which was also bolstered by an outstanding performance in goal by Saros. Among the positives for the Hawks was the play of Bedard, who finally scored his second of the season after being somewhat snakebitten the last few games.

It will be a quick turnaround for the Blackhawks, who will head to Texas for a Saturday night game against the Dallas Stars and the first of five straight on the road. Puck drop is at 7 p.m. CDT on CHSN with the radio call on 720 WGN.

The post RECAP: Hawks blow two-goal lead in 3–2 loss to Predators appeared first on The Rink.

First period

Filip Forsberg opened the scoring with his 44th of the season at the 5:53 mark, which set a new single-season franchise record for goals. With the Preds on the power play, Forsberg retrieved the puck at the left half boards and threw a knuckler toward the net that went past a screened Soderblom to give Nashville a 1–0 lead.

Nashville took a 2–0 lead in the final minute on Kiefer Sherwood’s 10th goal of the season. The Preds pinned the Hawks in their own zone thanks to an aggressive forecheck. Sherwood eventually pounced on his own rebound at the 19:03 mark to give the Preds a two-goal advantage after one.

Second period

Nashville took a 3–0 lead on Forsberg’s second of the game and 45th of the season to pad his team record. Kevin Korchinski had trouble gathering the puck and turned it over to Forsberg in front of the Hawks’ net and he buried it at the 5:22 mark.

With the Hawks shorthanded, Jason Zucker scored his 14th of the season to give Nashville a 4–0 advantage. Zucker used his trademark speed to skate into the Hawks’ zone along the boards, gain a step on Murphy and cut to the net and lift a backhand shot past Soderblom at 9:39.

The Hawks finally got on the scoreboard on Philipp Kurashev’s 18th of the season. With the Blackhawks on a 5-on-3 power play, Connor Bedard took the puck at the blue line and fed Kurashev in the left circle for a one-timer that beat Lankinen at 16:58. The Preds took a three-goal lead after 40 minutes into the second intermission.

Third period

Forsberg completed the hat trick with his 46th of the season on the power play to give Nashville a 5–1 lead. Luke Evangelista gathered the puck at the point, fed Ryan O’Reilly down low at the side of the net and he went back door to Forsberg, who buried the one-timer at 1:37 of the third. The score would hold through the final buzzer, as Lankinen won his second game against his former team.

Analysis

On a night where very little went right, the lone bright spot was the defensive pairing of Del Mastro and Murphy. When on the ice, the duo had more shots for than shots against and provided the Hawks with a physical presence throughout the game. The Hawks’ penalty kill struggled again as they gave up three power play goals to the Preds on six chances. The Hawks play their final home game of the season on Sunday evening against the Carolina Hurricanes. Puck drop is at 5 p.m. CST on NBCSCH with the radio call on WGN 720 AM.

The post RECAP: Preds bury Blackhawks in Del Mastro’s debut appeared first on The Rink.

#Blackhawks lineup vs. Predators:
Beauvillier-Bedard-Kurashev
Foligno-Dickinson-Blackwell
Reichel-Entwistle-Guttman
Katchouk-Seney-Donato

Vlasic-Crevier
Tinordi-Murphy
Korchinski-Zaitsev

Söderblom
Mrazek

Extras: R. Johnson, Phillips

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) January 3, 2024

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First period

After some back and forth, Nashville took to the power play on a “hold” by Seney, in one of the more questionable calls that I have ever seen in a game.

Nashville scores on the power play after this very questionable holding penalty on Brett Seney. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/bzTZmNF6w9

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) January 3, 2024

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Nashville put one home on the ensuing power play, as Gustav Nyquist put a wrister in on Soderblom from the left circle, 1–0 Predators. They did not stop coming after that either, as Soderblom continued to get peppered with shots. The Predators ended up outshooting the Blackhawks 16–5 in the first, but the score only had them leading by one.

Second period

The second period was just filled with ugliness and injuries for the Blackhawks. Both Anthony Beauvillier and Colin Blackwell went down with injuries in the period. That made it so that the Blackhawks had to ice two defensemen on the penalty kill the next time out, as they were running out of healthy forwards at the midpoint of the game. Philipp Kurashev took a nasty hit from Jeremy Lauzon toward the end of this period that sent Nick Foligno to his defense.

Jeremy Lauzon lays a big hit on Philipp Kurashev, and Nick Foligno immediately comes to his teammate’s defense.

What a scrap. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/tJRP4dAsbz

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) January 3, 2024

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Third period

It took until late in the third for more scoring to happen, but it was the Predators once again. On the two-man advantage, Filip Forsberg got the puck from one side of the net to Ryan O’Reilly on the other side, who put it home to put the Predators up 2–0. An empty-net goal from Luke Evangelista would make it a 3–0 final. The Blackhawks were not able to muster any offense and got shut out for the first time in the new year.

Analysis

The Blackhawks continue to struggle with injuries this season. They are down so many bodies that Luke Richardson jokingly wondered if the team will have bodies to call up. Soderblom played as well as you could have asked him to in this game. He made most of the stops that he should have made, as the only goal that he might have been better positioned on was Nyquist’s first period tally.

Foligno has continued to provide veteran leadership to this young Blackhawks team. It is always good to see him standing up for his teammates and always answers the bell when called upon.

The Blackhawks’ next game is on Thursday night against the New York Rangers. That game will be at 6 p.m. CST on NBC Sports Chicago.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks put up a goose egg, lose 3–0 to Nashville appeared first on The Rink.

The Hawks opened the scoring at 5:57 of the first when Nick Foligno scored his third of the season. Seth Jones pinched in behind the goal line and found Foligno to the left of Saros. Foligno found some space to stuff it in to give Chicago a 1–0 lead, which would stand after one period.

St. Nick pays a visit to the UC pic.twitter.com/nr3bY6ZJWh

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 6, 2023

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The Predators tied it at 2:11 of the second frame. A Tyson Barrie shot from the slot was stopped by Soderblom, but rookie Luke Evangelista was there on the doorstep to poke in the loose puck for his fourth of the season.

Just 26 seconds later, the Preds took a 2–1 lead. Nashville won a defensive zone draw and quickly rushed up the ice. Colton Sissons and Mark Jankowski skated behind Hawks defensemen Connor Murphy and Kevin Korchinski. Sissons’ shot was stopped but Jankowski was there to pounce on the rebound for his first of the season.

The Blackhawks did not take long to even things up, as Foligno found a wide-open Jason Dickinson at the top of the right circle, and he snapped a wrist shot over the blocker of Saros. For Dickinson, it was his eighth of the season to tie the game at 2–2.

Dickinson SNIPE ties it back up pic.twitter.com/Yotsxal4zV

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 6, 2023

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The Hawks regained the lead when the Hawks skated in 3-on-2 and Jones dropped the puck off to Foligno, who then fed Joey Anderson. Anderson’s shot from the left circle was stopped, but Foligno crashed the net and tapped in the rebound to give Chicago a 3–2 lead. It was Foligno’s second of the game and fourth of the season at 5:21 of the second.

HIS SECOND OF THE GAME pic.twitter.com/ZUYC2naBaw

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 6, 2023

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Ryan O’Reilly tied it at 3–3 on the power play with his 12th of the season. Filip Forsberg shot the puck on net from the left half boards, which Soderblom stopped, but O’Reilly was on the doorstep and had inside positioning and scored on the backhand at 12:59 of the second. A wild second period ended with the teams tied at 3–3.

After a scoreless third period that produced plenty of chances, the teams would head to overtime. There was lots of end-to-end action in overtime but the game remained knotted at 3–3 with both teams headed to their first shootout of the season.

The shootout opened with Gustav Nyquist skating in to the right of Soderblom and snapped a wrist shot through the five hole.

Connor Bedard evened things up when he skated in, stickhandled then lifted a forehand shot over the glove of Saros.

Connor Bedard scores his first NHL shootout goal, and it’s a BEAUTY! pic.twitter.com/kgD7aK8rGp

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) December 6, 2023

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O’Reilly gave the Preds an advantage when he skated in from the left side and lifted a backhand past Soderblom.

After Tyler Johnson’s attempt was stopped, Forsberg won it for the Predators.

Analysis

The Hawks put together a much better effort than their last three games, which earned them a point; however, their losing streak is now up to four. They were much more aggressive on the puck in all three zones, using their speed and crashing the net. While the power play did not cash in, it looked much more organized, as their passes were quick and crisp and it led to a few scoring opportunities. Reichel’s return to the lineup did not generate much in a little over seven minutes of ice time. Clearly he will need to earn more ice time and an opportunity to play higher than the fourth line. The Blackhawks’ loss combined with San Jose’s comeback win in overtime against the New York Islanders dropped the Hawks into last place in the league.

The Hawks will get an opportunity to end this skid on Thursday night against the Anaheim Ducks at the United Center. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. CST on NBCSCH with the radio call on 720 WGN.

The post RECAP: Nashville extends Hawks’ slide in 4–3 shootout decision appeared first on The Rink.

The Blackhawks got the first power play of the game 30 seconds in, but were not able to convert on the opportunity. They had a few more good chances in the opening minutes of the game, but were unable to get anything past Lankinen to go up on the scoresheet. The Predators ended up striking first, just over 12 minutes into the game. Kevin Korchinski failed to get the puck out of the defensive zone, with Colton Sissons stealing the puck along the boards. He got it to Yakov Trenin, who put his first goal of the season past Soderblom to make it 1–0 Predators. The Blackhawks game up two late-period power plays to the Predators, who would eventually make them pay. Gustav Nyquist cleaned up a rebound off of a Filip Forsberg shot to make it 2–0 Predators, which is how the first period would end.

The second period took a lot longer to get going. Both teams traded chances, but they were not able to put any in the net until Philipp Kurashev put in a rebound off of a Connor Bedard shot, getting the Blackhawks on the board and trimming the margin to 2–1.

Philipp Kurashev cleans up the rebound from Connor Bedard’s shot and scores his third goal of the season. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/4UrLpsq6Y7

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) November 18, 2023

The Predators would answer before the period was out, though. Philip Tomasino put a shot on net that was not controlled by Soderblom, allowing Cole Smith to sneak the puck around his pad, 3–1 Predators.

In the third, both teams traded chances until Tyler Johnson put a shot off of Roman Josi and past Lankinen, tightening the score to 3–2 Predators. Unfortunately, that was all that they were able to muster, as Cole Smith struck again with an empty-netter to put this one away for good, a 4–2 Predators win.

Analysis

The Blackhawks got some good shots on goal in this game, but were unable to put any of their really good chances past Lankinen. With one line really showing up, especially defensively, that does not bode well for you having a game that is winnable for your side. As far as defensive play goes, Seth Jones and Alex Vlasic played solidly as a pairing, which is refreshing to see, especially for Jones, who has looked like he wants to play this season.

The Blackhawks’ next game is on Sunday at home against the Buffalo Sabres. That game will be at 6 p.m. CST on NBC Sports Chicago.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks downed in Nashville, lose 4–2 again appeared first on The Rink.

Alex Stalock made 35 saves and the Hawks beat the Nashville Predators 2–1. Lukas Reichel opened up the scoring in the first period off a broken play. Attempting to slide the puck over to Andreas Athanasiou on a 2-on-1 break, Reichel’s pass deflected off of defenseman Dante Fabbro and crossed the goal line as the net was being dislodged.

The 1–0 lead would carry over to the third period. Eight minutes into the third, Boris Katchouk won a puck battle behind the net and fed it to a wide-open Joey Anderson. Anderson put away his second goal as a Blackhawk to make it 2–0.

Roman Josi would make it 2–1 with 25 seconds left, but the stellar play of Stalock was enough to secure the victory.

Chicago is now five points ahead of Columbus in the NHL standings. Finishing near but not dead last will not eliminate the Hawks from winning the lottery for the No. 1 overall pick, but a last-place finish would secure a top-three pick in the draft. With every win, the Hawks are hurting their chances at being in the best draft position possible.

Chicago heads to the desert to face the Arizona Coyotes on Saturday. Puck drop is at 9:30 p.m. CDT.

The post Blackhawks Post-game One-timers — March 16 vs. Nashville Predators appeared first on The Rink.

— In the first period, the Blackhawks looked like they might make good on picking up a win, with Lukas Reichel making a breakout pass to Seth Jones. He then got the puck over to Andreas Athanasiou, who got the puck back to Jones to backhand it past Juuse Saros to make it 1–0 Blackhawks early in this one.

— At the 9:36 mark of the frame, the Blackhawks were shorthanded, and on the power play, Yakov Trenin ripped a shot from the middle of the ice that was saved by Petr Mrazek, but Philip Tomasino was right there to clean up the rebound and tie everything up at 1–1.

— The Blackhawks would get another really good chance, with the 14-15-16 line out on the ice. Jujhar Khaira kicked the puck to his stick and got it out in front to Joey Anderson, who rang a shot off of the crossbar, meaning the game stayed tied through the end of one.

— After a lot of back and forth, with the Blackhawks honestly getting way more chances than the Predators, Tyson Barrie got the puck at the point, and one-timed a shot that deflected in past Mrazek, giving the Predators the lead, 2–1. Philipp Kurashev tried to block it, the puck went off of his stick and past Mrazek. The period would end with the score keeping the Predators ahead of the Blackhawks.

— Unfortunately, the third period would come and go as well without the Blackhawks being able to put a puck past Saros to tie it. They got a few good chances, but with the goaltender pulled, the Predators’ Colton Sissons was able to put the puck into the open net, giving the Predators the 3–1 win.

The Blackhawks are back in action on Monday night against the Ottawa Senators. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. CST on NBC Sports Chicago.

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First period

Unlike the previous game, it did not take long for the Blackhawks to get down early in this one. What seemed like a simple, get-into-the-zone-and-get-a-shot-on-net play somehow turned into a goal for Nashville. With three and a half minutes gone in the frame, the Predators entered the zone, with Philip Tomasino simply getting the puck to the middle, and Eeli Tolvanen got the puck and one-timed it past Lankinen to make it 1–0 Predators.

Just about five minutes later, the Blackhawks broke out of the defensive zone, with Patrick Kane and Dylan Strome getting a 2-on-1 opportunity down the ice. Kane elected to shoot, and wristed the puck past Juuse Saros to tie the game up at 1–1.

“are you not entertained” energy pic.twitter.com/L8tRPeugWS

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 16, 2022

With just over a minute remaining in the period, the Predators got another great chance, with Tolvanen getting the puck from the corner to a streaking Tomasino, with Lankinen proving up to the task and keeping the put out with a great glove save.

Second period

The Predators got some good offensive zone time in to start off this frame, with Filip Forsberg getting the puck to Matt Duchene, who could not put it past Lankinen. The Predators would get a few more chances on the Blackhawks net, with Lankinen stopping all of them with some incredible acrobatics.

The Blackhawks got a golden opportunity with just over five minutes gone in the stanza, with Lukas Reichel getting his first NHL point on the play. He got the puck over to Jake McCabe on the far side of the zone, who faked a shot and whipped it over to Kubalik, who had a wide open net to deposit the puck into, making it 2–1 Blackhawks.

KUBY! pic.twitter.com/kn3eS3tYEy

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 16, 2022

With just under six minutes gone, with both teams having four men on the ice, the Predators made use of the extra space available, with Ryan Johansen getting the puck over to Roman Josi, who was up next to the net and able to just tap it past Lankinen, tying the game up at 2–2.

Then, feeling like deja vu all over again, Josi took a pass at the blue line and got into the offensive zone, wristing the puck past Lankinen, giving Nashville a 3–2 lead…BUT, it was offside, so the goal was called back, keeping the score tied up at 2–2.

The Predators would end up scoring a very gritty goal, though, before the period was over, with the whole team just fighting to get the puck to the net before it got in front to Duchene, who buried it to make it 3–2 Predators for real this time.

Third period

With just over three minutes gone in the third, the Predators broke into the offensive zone, with Mattias Ekholm ending up with the puck. He took a shot that was intentionally going wide, but Mikael Granlund was right there next to the net with a beautiful tip to put it past Lankinen, making it 4–2 in favor of the Predators.

The Blackhawks would trade chances for a while with the Predators, with both goalies proving up to the task to keep the shots that were coming in on net.

With just over five and a half minutes remaining, the Blackhawks managed to get one on goal, with Kane stealing most eyes his direction, allowing Riley Stillman to sneak in unnoticed and put the puck past a diving Saros, getting the Blackhawks to within one, and the score 4–3.

sneaky stilly pic.twitter.com/c7X4PVtT8F

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 16, 2022

Unfortunately, that was as close as the comeback bid came, as the Predators prevented anything further from coming close to going in. The Predators hung on, giving the Blackhawks yet another loss in what has been a very disappointing season.

Analysis

The Blackhawks played a very disappointing defensive game, and in many others this season, making it very difficult to win games if you are already behind just two or three minutes into the first period. I also do not get the idea of playing veterans like Johnson, who has not and will not be doing anything for the Blackhawks this year over someone who needs to stay in the lineup to get some confidence back, like Kurashev, especially as these games do not matter and Kurashev could not have had less of an impact in this game than Johnson did.

In every way, the team needs to commit to this rebuild if that is what has been determined. Hopefully that will mean seeing other veterans moved out this offseason for more prospects, and we will see the Blackhawks rebound sooner than later into a contender.

The Blackhawks play next on Monday night against the red-hot Calgary Flames—winners of six of their last seven—at the United Center. Game time is 7 p.m. CDT on NBC Sports Chicago.

The post Reichel records first career point in 4–3 heartbreaker appeared first on The Rink.

Blackhawk forward Jujhar Khaira was also back on the ice after taking a nasty hit in December and missing time. Today’s game was the first for the Blackhawks since a road overtime loss at the Dallas Stars on Dec. 18.

Blackhawks lines vs. Predators:

DeBrincat-Borgstrom-Kane
Hagel-Toews-Strome
Kubalik-Dach-Kurashev
Khaira-Carpenter-Entwistle

De Haan-Seth Jones
Stillman-Murphy
McCabe-Gustafsson

Delia

— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) January 1, 2022

First period

Just 66 seconds into the first period, Predators forward Filip Forsberg beat Delia high glove side for a quick 1–0 lead for his 15th goal of the season. This was definitely not the start Delia was looking for in his first start this season. Forsberg has a sneaky quick shot, but this is a goal Delia should have had early on to get his game going.

FILin good! pic.twitter.com/4RHV6afPXN

— Nashville Predators (@PredsNHL) January 1, 2022

At the 5:52 mark of the period, Predators forward Ryan Johansen scored after Forsberg won a board battle and found Johansen all alone for a quick breakaway, beating Delia with a nice juke move before sliding into the net. Johansen’s 10th goal of the season came after defenseman Seth Jones took a slashing penalty and Nashville’s Michael McCarron went off for unsportsmanlike conduct, leaving the teams 4-on-4.

After forward Dylan Strome went off for tripping at the 17:27 mark, Nashville extended their lead to 3–0 after defenseman Mattias Ekholm scored his second from the point on a quick wrist shot. The goal came on Nashville’s seventh shot of the period, as the Blackhawks peppered Juuse Saros for 15 shots without finding the back of the net.

Second period

The Predators would not waste much time when Tanner Jeannot scored 28 ticks into the second period and defenseman Roman Josi scored at the 5:34 mark. Both goals came after Derek King made a switch in net to Soderblom, who entered to make his NHL debut. With the score 5–0, Chicago still had an 18–15 advantage in shots.

Chicago finally found the back of the net when Philipp Kurashev beat Saros for his second goal this season. Defenseman Calvan de Haan created a nice rush up the center of the ice and found a streaking Kurashev on the right wing, who beat Saros blocker side to shorten the Predators lead to 5–1.

First goal of 2022 pic.twitter.com/0rejSZpeSN

— Blackhawks Talk (@NBCSBlackhawks) January 1, 2022

Third period

For the third time this game, the Predators scored in the first 1:02 of a period when Jeannot scored his second goal of the game. A shot from Matt Benning from the point looked harmless until Jeannot tipped home the shot behind Soderblom.

Chicago did outshoot Nashville 38–24 in the game.

Analysis

Turn the page to tomorrow’s home contest against the Calgary Flames. Chicago was off the ice for 14 days, while Nashville played their fourth game in six days. Throw out the tape and move on. It is hard to replicate game situations for two weeks and play your first game back with your Rockford goaltenders.

The post Opportunistic Predators top rusty Blackhawks 6–1 on New Year’s Day appeared first on The Rink.

Much as one would anticipate with these two teams, a grand total of five shots combined were peppered toward Marc-Andre Fleury and Juuse Saros in the opening frame. However, Thomas Novak scored his first NHL goal for the Nashville Predators on the power play after Connor Murphy went off for cross checking at the 10:32 mark of the first period. Novak’s first goal was a beauty, as he beat Fleury glove side with a well-placed wrist shot top shelf.

As broadcasters Pat Foley and Eddie Olczyk were deep in conversation about the outbreak amongst dozens of NHL players, MacKenzie Entwistle created a scoring opportunity that Kirby Dach took advantage of at the 13:57 mark in the first frame. Entwistle’s hustle found him with the puck and made a quick play to Dach, who buried a tough-angle shot off Saros and into the net for his fifth goal of the season.

Just what the Dach-tor ordered pic.twitter.com/ZoU9mfFLq0

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 18, 2021

The second period of action would generate zero goals, but would see Nashville play with the puck in their offensive zone for long stretches at a time. Chicago fought to keep the score tied 1–1 after two periods of play, however, to say Chicago looked like the team that was down a large number of regulars would not have been wrong.

The third period play found Colton Sissons scoring his fourth goal of the season and Jonathan Toews collecting his third tally this season. Sissons’ goal found the back of the net for the Predators’ second power play goal of the game after Erik Gustafsson was called for delay of game for shooting the puck over the glass.

The Chicago captain scored after winning an all-important face off in the Hawks’ own zone (yes, if you want to win games, you will need to win important draws) and created some open space for himself just left of Saros, which is where Riley Stillman made an excellent pass across the ice to a wide-open Toews for a 2–2 tie game.

TOEWS TIES IT UP pic.twitter.com/MX977Lc4Cp

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) December 18, 2021

Chicago would not get an opportunity in overtime to create any chances, as Nashville broke up Chicago’s first rush and scored on the other end of the ice when Tanner Jeannot tipped home a nice pass from Roman Josi for his eight goal this season.

Fleury stopped 28 shots in the loss.

Analysis

To say this was a boring hockey game may be an understatement. Chicago did not generate many prime chances with 19 shots on goal.

Entwistle, Toews and Dominik Kubalik all played solid games up and down the ice, which is a very encouraging sign, especially for Kubalik.

Chicago needed to take advantage of winning against a depleted team and found themselves on the wrong side of the scoresheet after giving up two power play goals.

The post Chicago falls to Nashville 3–2 in overtime appeared first on The Rink.

In a scoreless first period, Chicago outshot the Preds 10–5.

Near the halfway point of the second period, Brandon Hagel scored his fourth goal of the year, putting the puck up and over Juuse Saros after a Seth Jones shot caromed off the end boards to the front of the net. Jonathan Toews received the secondary assist on the play.

bagel goals = pic.twitter.com/HbeekRXYBr

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 8, 2021

Less than two minutes later, Nashville tied the game when Alexandre Carrier drove to the net and tucked the puck behind Kevin Lankinen to knot the score at 1–1.

The third period showcased some great chances for both sides, but both Lankinen and Saros held firm, including a few show-stopping saves. Though the Hawks outshot the Preds 31–20 through 60 minutes, both teams earned a point and skated into the overtime frame.

In the overtime, Alex DeBrincat and Patrick Kane connected on a nifty 2-on-1 break. Kane collected a pass from DeBrincat, kicked the puck to his stick and calmly sent a backhand pass back and “the Cat” buried it to seal the 2–1 overtime win. Lankinen not only got his first win of the season with 21 saves, but also tallied the secondary assist on the overtime winner.

THE PLAY, THE PASS, THE GOAL pic.twitter.com/yLviFIQhco

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) November 8, 2021

Analysis

It is hard to imagine a dramatic turnaround for the Hawks with King now at the helm, but on Sunday night, the compete level was certainly there. Through his initial comments and interviews, it is clear that King is a players’ coach. In a year of turmoil for the team both on and off the ice, he may be just the presence the players need right now. Time will tell as to the results, but based on the effort from the skaters on Sunday night, perhaps the Blackhawks will show a more inspired brand of hockey moving forward, which would certainly be a welcomed change.

Next up, Chicago will host the Pittsburgh Penguins at the United Center on Tuesday for a 7:30 p.m. CST puck drop.

The post RECAP: King gets first win, Hawks beat Preds 2–1 appeared first on The Rink.

Monday, April 19: Third-period meltdown dooms the Blackhawks

After an energized 10 minutes of action from the Blackhawks, the Predators took over. The recently returned Matt Duchene got Nashville on the board early. Alex DeBrincat tied the game up later on the power play on a nifty pass from Pius Suter.

Calle Jarnkrok scored to put the Predators up by one at 2–1. Following another defensive lapse, Mattias Ekholm made the score 3–1 in favor of Nashville. With the game slipping away, an unlikely scorer cut the gap to one, as David Kampf netted his first goal of the second to close the margin to 3–2.

David Kampf finally scores his first goal of the season. He went 49 straight games without one, dating back to last season. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/nMeyaSqLIB

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) April 20, 2021

In the third period, Kevin Lankinen surrendered two early goals to put the game out of reach. In a rare move, Head Coach Jeremy Colliton then pulled Lankinen from the game. The final score was Nashville 5, Blackhawks 2.

Wednesday, April 21: Blackhawks’ impressive third period snatches victory from the jaws of defeat

In a game where the Blackhawks needed their stars to rise to the top, the team was instead lead by the energetic Brandon Hagel. Hagel found Suter for the first Blackhawks goal of the game. It would then be all Nashville with four unanswered goals.

In the third period, The young offensive defenseman Wyatt Kalynuk cut the gap to 4–2 with a tap-in goal from Patrick Kane. The recently re-acquired Vinnie Hinostroza kept the comeback moving along with his first goal of the season. Dominik Kubalik then scored the equalizer to knot the game up at 4–4.

In overtime, Hagel struck by roofing a shot past Juuse Saros for a thrilling 5–4 comeback victory.

Brandon Hagel scores overtime winner to complete three-goal comeback against Predators. Wow. #Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/xLWrtfG1mR

— Charlie Roumeliotis (@CRoumeliotis) April 22, 2021

 Friday, April 23: The day the season ended for the Blackhawks

The Blackhawks had an 11% chance of making the playoff entering the third and final game of the week. After playing inspired hockey in the third period on Wednesday, the Blackhawks could not find their offensive rhythm in the opening 20 minutes this time around. Malcolm Subban did his best to keep the Blackhawks in this game, but ultimately his 25-save effort was not enough. Nashville got goals from Ryan Johansen, Luke Kunin and Erik Haula.

The Blackhawks would get a late third goal from Hinostroza to make the final score 3–1. With that loss, the Blackhawks’ playoff chances went from long to non-existent. Now, the focus of this team should be on younger players for the rest of the season.

Analysis: The curious case of Dylan Strome

With the season on the line, Colliton decided to healthy scratch Dylan Strome on Wednesday and Friday. Strome was on the ice a half-hour before game time on Friday before being pulled from the lineup. The move is puzzling because the Blackhawks have had a tough time scoring and winning faceoffs against the Predators this season. In their eight games this season, the Hawks averaged just 1.75 goals against the Predators. That is their worst goals-for percentage against an opponent this season.

In terms of faceoffs, Nashville ranks sixth in the NHL while the Blackhawks rank 28th in the league. Personally, Strome has a faceoff win percentage of 47%, which is the second-highest mark on the team behind only Kampf. Meanwhile, the top three guys on Nashville are over 50%, with Colton Sissons leading at 54.3%. With all of those facts under consideration, it makes the move for Colliton to bench Strome in favor of icing seven defensemen even more puzzling.

Could Strome’s benchings be an indication of his future with the Blackhawks? This is one of the many questions that will be facing the organization during the rest of the regular season and in the offseason.

The post RECAP: Blackhawks’ push for playoffs ends with a whimper appeared first on The Rink.

Tuesday, March 30: Hawks escape to victory

On Tuesday, the Blackhawks were stylistically and statistically outplayed, getting outshot 32–16 by the Canes, but the big board dictated otherwise and the Hawks skated to a 2–1 victory.

New father Dylan Strome celebrated the birth of his daughter by opening the scoring 29 seconds into the second period. Kirby Dach notched his first point of the season, springing Strome on a 2-on-1 break. Strome took care of his opportunity and Chicago took a 1–0 lead. It was Strome’s third even-strength point in what has been an uninspiring season for him.

The Hawks doubled their money minutes later when Alex DeBrincat tallied his 19th marker of the season following a great steal from Patrick Kane.

𝘠𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘬

Patrick Kane creates a turnover and sets up Alex DeBrincat on the power play! @NBCSChicago | #CHIvsCAR pic.twitter.com/s9Dv0BIyUp

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) March 31, 2021

Carolina would make it 2–1 before the end of the frame, but from that point on, Kevin Lankinen shut the door. The rookie would end the game with 31 saves, sealing the win for the Blackhawks.

Thursday, April 1: Last-minute heartbreaker sinks Hawks

On Thursday, the Blackhawks would play a more complete game, only to suffer heartache with seconds to play. After falling behind 2–0 at the halfway point of the game, Dominik Kubalik would cut the lead in half, with rookie Wyatt Kalynuk notching his first career NHL assist on a beautiful stretch pass through the neutral zone to the sophomore winger.

In a back-and-forth third period, Brandon Hagel tied the game 2–2. After Warren Foegele’s second goal of the game reclaimed Carolina’s lead, Strome would notch his second goal in as many games moments later, deflecting a Connor Murphy shot to the back of the net to make it 3–3. In the game’s waning moments, Jesper Fast scored for the Canes with less than 30 seconds to go, stealing away the win.

Rookie Brandon Hagel making things interesting in Chicago!@NBCSChicago | #CHIvsCAR pic.twitter.com/8MNfnKIAUt

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 2, 2021

Saturday, April 3: Blackhawks unable to solve the Preds

On Saturday, the Hawks visited the Music City to take on the Nashville Predators. Though the visitors came out firing, they trailed 1–0 after the first period despite pumping 14 shots on the seemingly unsolvable Juuse Saros.

In the second period, with the Blackhawks’ power play in tatters, Adam Boqvist hauled down Colton Sissons on a breakaway. Sissons converted on the ensuing penalty shot to make it 2–0 for the Preds.

The Hawks failed to convert on a 5-on-3 power play early in the third period, and moments later, the Preds added another to make it 3–0. Chicago outshot the Preds 39–21, but Saros and the stingy Preds defense helped the home side skate to a 3–0 shutout win.

News and notes

Chicago General Manager Stan Bowman also had a busy week. On Tuesday, the Blackhawks announced the signing of unrestricted free agent and Boston College standout Mike Hardman to a two-year entry-level contract at $912,500 per year. Hardman was assigned to the taxi-squad shortly after. The 22-year-old registered 10 goals and 19 points for the Eagles in 2020–21 before inking the deal. Whether or not he will suit up for the Hawks or the Rockford IceHogs this season remains to be seen.

A day later, the Hawks signed current IceHogs defenseman and 2020 fifth-round draft pick Isaak Phillips to a three-year deal with a $859,167 cap hit per season. The 19-year-old has had a steady season in Rockford, with six points and an even plus-minus rating in 14 tilts as a regular in the line-up for the Hogs. Though it may be a while before he is seen in an NHL uniform, Phillips has had a recognizably strong first professional season and is a promising signing.

My goodness what a way to score your first professional goal.

Isaak Phillips with his first of the season and what a beauty it was. pic.twitter.com/7CxImcEVx3

— Thomas Mercier (@TJM_PlayByPlay) February 17, 2021

On Friday, Bowman was up to his old tricks, as the Blackhawks reacquired Vinnie Hinostroza from the Florida Panthers in exchange for Brad Morrison. In what has been a common move for Bowman to reinvest in a former draft pick for a second stanza with the club, with Hinostroza’s contract expiring at the end of this season, this could be a short and insignificant stay for him in the Windy City.

Don't forget: @KendallCoyne Schofield is subbing in for Eddie Olczyk (who's away on National game duties) for today's broadcast!

The puck drops at 2 p.m. on @NBCSChicago. #CHIvsNSH

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) April 3, 2021

Lastly, on Saturday in her color commentary debut with the Hawks, Kendall Coyne Schofield was absolutely outstanding working with Pat Foley. Her analysis, delivery, sense of humor and style were on point. She continues to not only be an asset to the Blackhawks organization, but one of the best ambassadors for the game of hockey.

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Ahead of Tuesday, the Hawks would learn that they would be without defenseman Adam Boqvist and forward Alex DeBrincat for at least two weeks, as both players were added to the NHL’s COVID-19 protocol list. In Nashville, the offense sputtered, and they were generally outplayed by the Predators. The Hawks were outshot 81–50 in the two-game set.

Tuesday, Jan. 26: Subban steals a point

On Tuesday night, the Hawks jumped out to a 1–0 lead when Dylan Strome scored on the power play at 2:59 of the first period. The tally marked the Hawks seventh straight game in which they scored a power play goal. Hawks netminder Malcolm Subban was brilliant in the first frame, turning aside all 17 shots he faced.

After the Predators tied the game early in the second period, gritty forward Mattias Janmark sprinted in on a breakaway and fired a wrist short past Pekka Rinne to make it 2–1 Chicago at 11:43 of the second period.

The Predators tied it in the third period, and in overtime, a defensive miscue from the often-inconsistent Dylan Strome led to the overtime winner by Roman Josi. Subban registered 36 saves in the 3–2 overtime loss.

Wednesday, Jan 27: Strong in net, lacking in offense…again

Wednesday night appeared to be a carbon copy of the previous game. The Hawks played with more purpose and better tenacity, but created little in terms of offense. The Hawks’ lone marker came at 9:24 of the third when fourth-line grinder Ryan Carpenter banged home his own rebound off a Brandon Hagel feed. The helper marked Hagel’s first career NHL point.

Kevin Lankinen took the shootout loss, but earned his stripes yet again with 41 saves on the night.

Friday, Jan 29: Chances but no finish

The return to the United Center did not start well for the Hawks. After a failed man advantage of their own early in the first period, the Hawks surrendered the first goal of the game while a man down. Oliver Bjorkstrand drilled a one-timer from the left circle gave the Blue Jackets a 1–0 lead at 8:53 of the first period.

The Blue Jackets doubled their money in the second period making it 2–0, but the Hawks generated a lot of the action early in the period. On the power play, Strome was able to cash in from the front of the net off a great feed from Patrick Kane at 10:47 of the period to cut the margin to 2–1. The Hawks were outshooting the Jackets 23–15 at the end of the second.

The Hawks pressed late in the third period and both Kane and Carl Soderberg had grade-A chances as the game wound down, but neither could not find the equalizer. The game would end 2–1 in favor of the visitors. Blue Jackets goalie Joonas Korpisalo was spectacular, stopping 31 of 32 shots faced on the night, many of which robbing surefire tallies for the Blackhawks.

Here we are: State of affairs

In the absence of DeBrincat, Jonathan Toews, Kirby Dach and to a certain extent Alexander Nylander, it is no surprise that the Hawks are having difficulty finding consistent offense. Four goals over the last three games is certainly not a recipe for winning hockey. Kane can only do so much, Strome brought it on Friday, but is not dependable on a nightly basis, Dominik Kubalik is learning about life in the NHL without Toews and Brandon Saad and the rest of the group is either young and inexperienced or stylistically better suited in checking roles.

To date, the fourth line has done their job. Hagel, Carpenter, David Kampf and Matthew Highmore (when on that line) understand their roles and provide much-needed stability considering the deck will often be shuffled on the first three lines.

And in a somewhat unexpected twist, the defense and goaltending has been a positive for the team in the last few games. Since their tough start, the Hawks have given eight goals in regulation time over their last five games. Love him or hate him, this is the best Connor Murphy has played in a Blackhawk uniform and Calvin de Haan has also been solid. Nicolas Beaudin and Lucas Carlsson have factored into the lineup the last two games and have not been overly noticeable, but that is a good sign. They have been steady and that is what they need to be. Ian Mitchell is still learning on the fly, and while you can still expect mistakes from him in his young career, he will continue to get better. While Boqvist has this time to get healthy and reflect, hopefully it will also give the coaching staff time to evaluate what they have and do not have on their blue line. Ultimately, if this means some much-needed time in Rockford for Boqvist to work on his game, then so be it.

Adam Boqvist’s long-term game could benefit from some time in Rockford. (Photograph courtesy of Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images)

All signs are pointing towards Lankinen being the No. 1 goalie this season, and thus far he has earned it. With a .931 save percentage heading into the Columbus game and points in his first four starts, he has certainly earned it. Time will tell if the rookie can maintain his hot start, but thus far, he has been nothing short of impressive, despite the loss to the Jackets.

The Hawks are what they are. They will be rebuilding for the foreseeable future. As the season wears on and the schedule continues to get tougher and more competitive, one should forecast for the Hawks to be outside the playoff picture. How far outside is anyone’s guess right now, but a lottery pick is still a possibility. That said, while you should limit your expectations for a “successful” season from this group, it is okay to enjoy and follow the growth of some of their young players. Hopefully they will get back in the win column on Sunday.

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After a tough loss to the New York Rangers on Wednesday night, the Blackhawks were on home ice once again against the Nashville Predators for some Margaritaville Friday night action at the United Center.

Notably, Corey Crawford started for the Blackhawks and Erik Gustafsson was a healthy scratch. Lehner has been rumored to be potentially dealt, but it seems that Gustafsson’s days in Chicago are numbered as the deadline approaches.

The first period yielded nothing for either team. However, the Blackhawks did play some quality hockey during the first period. They outshot the visiting Predators in the first period and put together arguably their best power play in the last five games. There was a lot of good in the first period.

The best scoring chance of the period was a shorthanded breakaway for Brandon Saad. Saad drew a penalty shot but could not convert on the free chance.

After one period, the game was scoreless, but the Hawks showed a lot of promise.

In the second period, the tide turned, and it felt like a classic case of Déjà vu. The Blackhawks showed no energy in the middle frame and the Predators took advantage of it.

At the 14:56 mark on the second period, Mattias Ekholm scored to give the visitors the lead. It came to a surprise that it took this long for the Predators to score. The Preds registered 20 shots on goal in the period but only got one past Corey Crawford. “Crow” looked sensational in the middle frame and was the top reason the Blackhawks were only down one goal after 40 minutes.

The third period was fairly even early. However, the Blackhawks found momentum in the third and ultimately tied the game.

At the 9:05 mark, the power play went to work for the home team. Patrick Kane found the puck on the left-wing side and ripped a shot on net. The shot hit Alex DeBrincat and beat Pekka Rinne to tie the game at one-a-piece.

MEOW!

Watch live: https://t.co/mfQ1ZBTGTC pic.twitter.com/gXzGJm5VID

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 22, 2020

The opportunity was critical for the Blackhawks. After a dominant middle frame for Nashville, the third period yielded life for the home team and gave them a chance to strike. The power play capitalizing was critical since the man advantage was atrocious of late.

Despite the Blackhawks onslaught in the third, Pekka Rinne stood tall, especially in crunch time. With about 17 seconds left, Rinne made two massive saves that saved what looked like a guaranteed Blackhawks goal to send the game to extra time. Both goalies were incredible all night long.

Overtime provided plenty of excitement, but ultimately the hometown faithful would be rewarded.

With just over a minute remaining in the extra time, Alex DeBrincat found himself on a breakaway in the overtime period. DeBrincat beat Rinne top shelf for his second goal of the night and the overtime winner for the Blackhawks. The Blackhawks won 2–1 over the Predators.

The Cat pounces in overtime! #Purr

(via @EASportsNHL) pic.twitter.com/0dfaBpHBdZ

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) February 22, 2020

Along the boards

Tonight’s game was a well needed one for Alex DeBrincat. Two goals in this one helped inch the undersized winger closer to 20 goals on the season. This is normally a nice number for most players, but after a 41-goal season last year, DeBrincat’s play has been a bit underwhelming this season.

Corey Crawford was unbelievable in Friday’s contest. He played some of the best hockey we’ve seen all year at the goaltender position, especially in the second period when the Predators registered 20 shots and only one goal. Crawford may be the number one reason for this win over the Preds.

The trade deadline speculation is causing some hysteria in Blackhawks Twitter. Some thin Robin Lehner may be traded, others think it could be Crawford. Erik Gustafsson sat on Friday so it’s hard to believe he will not be traded also. It’s going to be an exciting few days for the Blackhawks.

The Blackhawks resume play on Sunday afternoon as they travel to Dallas to take on the Stars at 2:00 p.m. CST.

The post Along the boards: Blackhawks down Predators, 2–1 in overtime appeared first on The Rink.

First period:

The game got started off with some craziness from both sides. First, Pekka Rinne got his stick stuck in the Zamboni door, which created a chance that the Blackhawks couldn’t capitalize on. For the first period, this would be the first and really last of the good chances that the Blackhawks would be able to muster at all. Then, Roman Josi came sneaking into the Blackhawks’ zone and put the puck off of Viktor Arvidsson’s shin pads and into the back of the net to give the Predators a 1-0 lead.

Then, a few minutes later, Colin Blackwell got a great pass out in front of the net and put it past Corey Crawford to give the Predators a 2—0 lead. This was his first NHL goal after missing an open net earlier in the game. Then, Matt Duchene took advantage of the Blackhawks’ cluelessness after he was trapped deep in the offensive zone. The Blackhawks thought that they cleared it, but Mattias Ekholm managed to keep it in and get it up to Duchene, who made a nice move to get it past Crawford and make it 3-0 Nashville. Through it all, head coach Jeremy Colliton looked like he couldn’t have cared less if he was behind the bench or not.

Second period:

The Blackhawks in the second period looked like a very different team than the first period. They came out looking like they actually wanted to play, and put good pressure on Nashville from the get-go. They came up with one in the first part of the period with a Dominik Kubalik goal to make it 3-1 Predators. They put good pressure on, and continued to get shots, although they weren’t able to convert on any chances they had. They looked like they should have looked at the beginning of the game, if they had shown up and wanted to play.

No. 14 of the season for Kubalik was gnarly#Blackhawks pic.twitter.com/3uQE9g3Mwq

— Chicago Blackhawks (@NHLBlackhawks) January 10, 2020

Third period:

The Blackhawks started off the period well, getting good pressure on Nashville that eventually resulted in a power play opportunity. The Blackhawks streaked into the zone, with Patrick Kane getting the puck over to Jonathan Toews who passed it in front of the net to Alex DeBrincat. He made some beautiful moves to get Rinne to bite, and backhanded it past him to make it 3-2 Predators and pull the Blackhawks to within one goal. They kept the pressure up well throughout the period. Then…they pulled Crawford, and things went downhill quickly. The Predators got an empty netter on a Nick Bonino heave with under a minute to go. The Blackhawks pulled Crawford again and then allowed something that made you want to laugh and cry at the same time: a goal for Pekka Rinne, who cleared the puck all the way down the ice and into the vacated net to the cheers of his teammates.

Along the boards:

has jeremy colliton ever raised his voice once in his life

— Let's Get Bedarded (@FAUXSPORTZ) January 10, 2020

This is something I, and many Blackhawks fans, have wondered over the course of his time as a head coach. He rarely, if ever, shows emotion on the bench, and doesn’t seem to have the fire or passion for the game that he ought to have. No one should be shocked if big changes come down to the management structure of this team, from president down to the head coach.

Pekka Rinne shoots and scores. This is real. #Blackhawks down 5-2.

— jeff gerharz (@jeffg2112) January 10, 2020

Yeah…not the way anyone wanted to see this end. Even more salt in the wound of what was already a brutal game of blown chances, and a coach who shows no fight at all, and therefore cannot expect his players to either. The Blackhawks didn’t come out ready to play and payed the price dearly for it, creating a hole so deep that they couldn’t climb back out.

Hopefully the Blackhawks can turn things around on Saturday night against the Ducks. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. CST on NBC Sports Chicago.

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