CHICAGO – The Chicago Blackhawks took on the Winnipeg Jets on Saturday night. This game against the Central Division’s leader ended the home portion of Chicago’s schedule for 2024-25.
The Blackhawks came out firing as they took a 2-0 lead in the first period thanks to goals by Nick Foligno and Connor Bedard. Going up against Connor Hellebuyck, one of the best goalies in the world, it was a wonderful start.
In the second period, the Jets did what they do best and came back. The Blackhawks looked good early in the middle frame, but things went south when Nino Niederreiter scored to get Winnipeg on the board.
Not long after that, Kyle Connor tied the game with his 41st goal of the season. That 2-2 deadlock went to the second intermission, setting up an incredible finish to the home schedule.
In the final frame, the Jets took less than three minutes to take a 3-2 lead in the hockey game. Josh Morrissey threw one through traffic, and it went in the net off of Spencer Knight.
The Blackhawks didn’t roll over. In the second half of the third, Ryan Donato scored his 31st goal of the season to keep his special run going strong. On the goal, Connor Bedard collected his 81st career assist, which is the most by a teenager in Blackhawks history.
Frank Nazar put the Blackhawks ahead not long after, but the lead didn’t stand for long as Josh Morrissey tied it right back up with his second of the game before regulation was over. Despite plenty of chances in overtime for both sides, the game required a shootout.
Connor Bedard was the only Blackhawk to score in the shootout while both Kyle Connor and Cole Perfetti tucked one in to give the Jets the win. This victory secured the Central Division title for them.
After the game ended, the Jets stayed on the ice to deliver handshakes to both Patrick Maroon and Alec Martinez. Both of them ended wonderful careers that saw each of them win three Stanley Cups. It was a wonderful sign of sportsmanship as two amazing players are leaving the game.
Now, the Blackhawks will hit the road without Martinez and Maroon for their final two games of the season. It begins with a trip to Quebec to visit the Montreal Canadiens on Monday.
Visit The Hockey News Chicago Blackhawks team site to stay updated on the latest news, game-day coverage, player features, and more.
Read the full article here