The Chicago Blackhawks squandered a two-goal lead in the second period before salvaging a much-needed win in overtime against Anaheim. It was the Blackhawks’ first road win of the season.
Adam Boqvist opened the scoring in the first period with a blistering slap shot just as the Hawks’ power play expired. Jonathan Toews began the play on a great individual effort, battling to get the puck down low to Alex Nylander, who would set up Boqvist. In addition to Dominik Kubalik and Kirby Dach, Boqvist became the third Blackhawks rookie this season to score his first NHL goal in his second game played.
“Of course, it’s a dream,” Boqvist said. “You always looked up to scoring first goal and playing in the NHL, so it happened. I didn’t see where it went in, but I did see it went by the post, so yeah, it was good to see it go in.”
Alex Debrincat would give the Hawks a 2-0 lead on the power play, which has improved over the last 2 games. The Hawks have converted 2-for-6 power play chances over that span.
Although Toews would commit back-to-back slashing penalties in the third period — one of which would result in a game-tying goal to force overtime by Anaheim — he figured heavily on all three Blackhawk goals by winning battles and driving the net.
In addition to Toews, Robin Lehner had a stand-out performance yet again. Lehner was instrumental in keeping the game at 2-2 midway through the 3rd period, stymying the Ducks’ momentum with a plethora of huge saves.
The win would mark multiple milestones. Patrick Kane earned his 950th career point, which moved him up to the 100th spot on the NHL’s all-time points leaders list. In addition, Robin Lehner earned his 100th career win. The game also marked the 1000th game played by Anaheim Ducks Captain Ryan Getzlaf.
The Hawks have earned 3 out of 4 points so far on their west-coast road trip, which will end against the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday.