Kane, Crawford, Help Blackhawks Escape With 3-2 Win Against Predators

Patrick Kane scored the go-ahead goal with 5:12 remaining in the 3rd period, as the Chicago Blackhawks held on to beat the Nashville Predators 3-2.

The Blackhawks started sluggish again as they were outshot in the first period, 15-6.  Although it was Artem Anisimov's 15th goal of the year, a neat deflection in front of the net, while on the power play that gave the Hawks a 1-0 lead.  They enjoyed it for a total of 35 seconds as a failed clearing attempt by Dennis Rasmussen was kept in and deposited into the Hawks net by Filip Forsberg.

The second period started no better.  Fortunately, Corey Crawford (36 saves) was once again on top of his game.

The score remained tied until Mike Fisher converted on a power play, six minutes into the 3rd period.  After a questionable penalty drawn by Crawford, Jonathan Toews scored his 6th of the year, on the power play, on a deflection in front of Predators goalie, Pekka Rinne.  The Preds pressed at the end of the game, but to no avail.

Notable Mentions: Kane's GWG was his 700th point of his career.  Artemi Panarin extended his career-best point streak to 9 games with an assist tonight (5G 10A).  Brain Campbell was a healthy scratch for the Hawks which stopped his Ironman streak of 423 consecutive games played.  Anisimov's goal gives him 6 goals in his last 7 games.  He also leads the league in shooting% (26.7%).  The Blackhawks combined for 23 blocked shots tonight.

3 Stars of the Game
1 - CHI - Jonathan Toews - 1 PPG
2 - NSH - Mike Fisher - 1G
3 - NSH - Filip Forsberg - 1G

Next Game: Friday, December 30th, Away vs. Carolina Hurricanes, 6:30PM, TV - WGN, Radio - WGN720-AM

LET'S GO HAWKS!!!