nhl_u_blackhawks11_576 BLACKHAWKS 2 – KINGS 1
The Chicago Blackhawks have opened a 1-0 series lead over the Los Angeles Kings, defeating the Kings 2-1 on Saturday evening. Marian Hossa (6) and Patrick Sharp (8) scored the Hawks and Corey Crawford made 21 saves on 22 shots.
The Blackhawks carried the play and the Kings struggled to skate with the Hawks. The Kings were outshot 17-2 in the first period but opened the scoring when Justin Williams scored off a Blackhawks turnover at 14:23 of the first period as the Kings scored on one of their two shots in the period.
Chicago would respond with two second period goals from Sharp and Hossa. Joanthan Quick looked unbeatable early on and to beat a great goaltender you have to get traffic in front and that’s what the Hawks did as they scored on a rebound and a deflection.
For one game, the Hawks speed and puck possession game overwhelmed the Kings who have now lost six 2-1 games in the playoffs so far.
Chicago is now 42 of 43 on the penalty kill.