The Chicago Blackhawks didn’t qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2024-25. For most of the season, they were one of the worst teams in the league. However, that doesn’t mean that people can’t enjoy a few familiar faces while watching.
There were four brilliant games on Tuesday night. All of them ended up being one goal games with thrilling finishes. The two early matchups ended with stars like Kyle Connor and Alexander Ovechkin playing the role of “hero”.
The two later games, however, had a couple of unlikely winners. Two former Chicago Blackhawks scored game-winning goals when their teams needed it the most.
The Edmonton Oilers, who were down 4-0 at one point to the Los Angeles Kings, tied it up at 5 late in regulation thanks to the brilliance of Connor McDavid. At 19:18 of the third period, however, former Blackhawk Phillip Danault scored his second of the game to win the match for the Kings.
Danault is a great defensive forward, but he isn’t relied on for much offense. On this night, he came up big when his team seemed broken following an Oilers comeback.
The finish between the Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche was even more unlikely. Instead of finding a winner in regulation, this one went to overtime.
The man with the least amount of ice time on either side, Colin Blackwell, scored in overtime to win the game for the Stars. Of course, like Danault, Blackwell is a former Blackhawk who played the role of hero late on playoff day 3.
Blackwell doesn't have a defined role on the team in the way that Danault does, but neither of them are the guys that come to mind when you think "Stanley Cup Playoff winning goal".
Two former Blackhawks finished off a wonderful night of postseason hockey in the NHL. There are plenty more exhilarating moments ahead. Maybe a few more former Blackhawks will make a difference.
A few teams in the playoffs this year resemble what Chicago may look like in the coming years, giving hope to the fanbase. This tournament is a treat for all on a nightly basis.
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