The Chicago Blackhawks won Game 3 of their first-round playoff series rather handily over the Nashville Predators as they defeated them, 4-2.
Sports video app
NHL Playoffs 2015: New York Islanders instantly score in overtime to win Game 3 over Washington Capitals
NHL Playoffs 2015: Anaheim Ducks stun Winnipeg Jets with last-minute goal to take 2-0 series lead
The first period was competitive as the Predators instantly responded with a goal after the Blackhawks drew first blood with a score from center Andrew Desjardins.
A similar situation occurred at the beginning of the second period as Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews and Predators defenseman Mattias Ekholm exchanged goals in the first minute.
However, the Blackhawks pulled away in the second period with two more goals as left wing Brandon Saad and defenseman Brent Seabrook scored.
Blackhawks right wing Marian Hossa also became a key contributor as he dished out two assists.
The Blackhawks proceeded to cruise to victory in the third period as no goals were scored. Goalie Scott Darling rewarded the Blackhawks’ faith in him and performed fantastically with 35 saves out of 37 shots taken against him.
Corey Crawford struggled in the first two games, allowing nine goals, so Darling was given an opportunity to start after shining in relief in Game 1.
Meanwhile, Predators goaltender Pekka Rinne had another shaky performance as he only saved 26 of 30 shots taken against him for an 86.7 save percentage. Rinne has now allowed 10 goals in the first three playoff games.
COMMENTS