Blackhawks Rally From 3 Goal Deficit, Beat Predators in 2 OT

The Chicago Blackhawks gave up three goals in the first period, but then shutout Nashville the rest of the way and beat the Predators 4-3 in the 2nd overtime period in the opening game of their first round Stanley Cup playoff series in Nashville on April 15th.

Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford was pulled after the first period in favor of backup Scott Darling. Crawford is a pretty good goalie, but he occasionally has an off night and plays like crap. This was one of those nights, where he let in three of 12 shots. In the post season, players have to step up their games if someone is having an off night, and Darling was great in net with 42 saves.

The game also marked the return to action of the Hawks’ Patrick Kane. Kane went down with a broken clavicle on February 24th, but seemed to be fine and contributed two assists. His return is a big boost to the Blackhawks, both for his play and as a psychological lift entering the playoffs. After playing well most of the season, Nashville faded down the stretch, losing 15 of their last 21 regular season games. Losing the opener of this series at home after that kind of regular season finish is not a good sign for the Predators.