Monday, October 31, 2011

Predators Lose 5-4 in Overtime to Blackhawks

The Predators held a lead three different times, but it was not enough as they lost 5-4 in overtime in Chicago. Patric Hornqvist extended his goal streak with a pair of tallies, while Patrick Kane burned the Preds once again with two goals of his own. Viktor Stalberg scored the game-winner for the Blackhawks in overtime.

To the Predators’ credit, they fought hard to get a point out of this game. They were shorthanded physically and spent a lot of time, well, shorthanded. The Preds’ penalty kill survived seven Blackhawks power plays, including a pair of 5-on-3’s with key players in the box. Additionally, the Preds’ man advantage was 1-for-3 tonight thanks to Hornqvist’s late second period goal.

Along with Hornqvist, David Legwand had a multi-point night. He scored the game-tying goal with 5:11 remaining in the third period, just 1:41 after the ‘Hawks had temporarily taken a 4-3 lead. Rookie Craig Smith also scored for the Preds.

Ryan Thang, who was officially recalled from AHL Milwaukee earlier today, looked solid tonight. He made some nice plays on the penalty kill and did not look like a player making his NHL debut.

The Preds return home briefly before heading back on the road for their next game on Thursday in Phoenix. It will be their second game of a five-game road trip.

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