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Corey Crawford played strong in goal and Jonathan Toews delivered the game-winner in overtime as the Chicago Blackhawks beat the Nashville Predators, 2-1, on Saturday night. With over 60 minutes between scores, it was far from a perfect performance from the team, but honestly, who cares right now?
The game probably shouldn't have gone to overtime given the number of power plays and scoring chances that Chicago had early on, but The Captain came through in extra time with a breakaway score on Carter Hutton to elate the United Center crowd:
Toews, set, match. Hawks win, thanks captain. https://t.co/vVLDIBs3Gt
— Second City Hockey (@2ndCityHockey) October 19, 2014
Both the Blackhawks and Predators scored on their first respective shot attempts of the night, but the offenses went flat from there. Power plays gave Chicago several opportunities, yet the team's issues with the man advantage continued.
An early goal by Johnny Oduya was supposed to signal the beginning of a lopsided onslaught. The defenseman didn't even get a particularly good opportunity, simply slapping one from distance with little traffic in front of the goal, but Hutton failed to get into position and allowed the puck to slip between his legs for the opening score.
After needing 50 shots to get one goal against Jonas Hiller on Wednesday, it was refreshing seeing that first one go in early Saturday. However, we had no idea that the next 40-plus minutes would effectively be a recreation of that experience, with a steady flow of power plays leading to a significant shot advantage but not much else.
And once again, we're going to need to talk about that power play. The unit was one of the bigger question marks for the Blackhawks entering the season, and through four games, the team has done nothing to dispel concerns. An 0-for-5 effort with the man advantage, on the heels of the struggles against Calgary, represents arguably the most disappointing aspect of the team's performance early this season.
One obvious positive to point towards is the play of Crawford, who delivered yet another solid performance early in the season. The Hawks' goaltender saved 18-of-19 shots that went his way Saturday, improving his save percentage to .926 on the season. Hutton also played well for Nashville, saving 35-of-37 save attempts in place of Pekka Rinne.
Between the victory and this ...
oh my goddd Sharp's the best. this is adorable. https://t.co/yfSZj2Y3UX
— Second City Hockey (@2ndCityHockey) October 19, 2014
... I'd say we've had a pretty good night. The Hawks are now 3-0-1. They host the Philadelphia Flyers on Tuesday night in their next game. Happy Saturday, everyone.