The Chicago Blackhawks' struggles in Minnesota continue to haunt them, as they fell to the Wild 4-3 in a shootout for the third consecutive loss in the state since 2019. The Blackhawks, who dominated play but were unable to capitalize on their scoring chances, seemed to be stuck in a rut against their longtime rivals.
According to coach Jeff Blashill, his team's chances were 23-14 in their favor, with him stating that they "won that game 98% of the time." However, on Tuesday night, those chances came up short. The Wild capitalized on every infrequent scoring opportunity to rally back and secure the win.
The Blackhawks' power play continued to be a liability, as they went 0-for-5, including coming up just short on a four-on-three advantage in overtime. This marks their 22nd failure on the power play over their last eight games.
On a more positive note, the team's new first line of Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, and Teuvo Teravainen seemed to be clicking as they outshot the Wild 11-3 in five-on-five ice time together. Nazar-to-Bedard seam passes and Bedard-to-Nazar saucer passes were both Grade-A chances, showcasing the trio's chemistry.
Bedard, who has been struggling since returning from injury, showed flashes of brilliance but was unable to find the back of the net against Wild goalie Jesper Wallstedt. However, his linemates Nazar and Teravainen seem capable of helping him break out of his funk.
Forwards Oliver Moore and Connor Bedard had a special night, as they were cheered on by their families and friends at Grand Casino Arena. Moore made his first NHL regular-season appearance in Minnesota, while Bedard attempted 11 shots but was denied every time. Despite this, the team's "moms trip" provided a boost of energy to the arena.
Coach Blashill acknowledged that Moore has shown defensive acumen and tenacity, which makes him an attractive center prospect. He believes that parts of his skill set make him look like a potential long-term center, even if he isn't 6-foot-4 tall.
According to coach Jeff Blashill, his team's chances were 23-14 in their favor, with him stating that they "won that game 98% of the time." However, on Tuesday night, those chances came up short. The Wild capitalized on every infrequent scoring opportunity to rally back and secure the win.
The Blackhawks' power play continued to be a liability, as they went 0-for-5, including coming up just short on a four-on-three advantage in overtime. This marks their 22nd failure on the power play over their last eight games.
On a more positive note, the team's new first line of Connor Bedard, Frank Nazar, and Teuvo Teravainen seemed to be clicking as they outshot the Wild 11-3 in five-on-five ice time together. Nazar-to-Bedard seam passes and Bedard-to-Nazar saucer passes were both Grade-A chances, showcasing the trio's chemistry.
Bedard, who has been struggling since returning from injury, showed flashes of brilliance but was unable to find the back of the net against Wild goalie Jesper Wallstedt. However, his linemates Nazar and Teravainen seem capable of helping him break out of his funk.
Forwards Oliver Moore and Connor Bedard had a special night, as they were cheered on by their families and friends at Grand Casino Arena. Moore made his first NHL regular-season appearance in Minnesota, while Bedard attempted 11 shots but was denied every time. Despite this, the team's "moms trip" provided a boost of energy to the arena.
Coach Blashill acknowledged that Moore has shown defensive acumen and tenacity, which makes him an attractive center prospect. He believes that parts of his skill set make him look like a potential long-term center, even if he isn't 6-foot-4 tall.