The Carolina Hurricanes easily won 6-3, extending the Chicago Blackhawks’ road losing streak.
Only one of the Hawks’ previous 21 away games from the United Center has ended in overtime. The Blackhawks have risen one spot in the standings since their last road victory, against the Tampa Bay Lightning, on November 9, 2023.
For the first two periods, the Blackhawks looked like they still wanted to be at the team hotel. In the first forty minutes of the game, the Hurricanes led the Hawks 4-1.
Compared to the Hawks’ four high-danger scoring opportunities, Carolina produced 13. The Hurricanes were predicted to score 2.25 goals in the second half.
The fact that the Blackhawks gave the Hurricanes ownership of the slot made matters worse. Goalie Petr Mrazek was put under pressure by that.
Since the Hurricanes are serious Stanley Cup contenders, being outshot and outscored was not surprising, but allowing them to act foolishly while winning is unacceptable.
What happened on Carolina’s first goal was look foolishness. Defensemen Jarred Tinordi and Louis Crevier of the Hawks were totally sidetracked, which gave Martin Necas the opportunity to pass Michael Bunting for a backhand goal with ease.
