CHICAGO, IL – Petr Mrazek delivered a stellar performance with 37 saves, including eight in the shootout, leading the Chicago Blackhawks to a narrow 2-1 victory against the San Jose Sharks at the United Center on Tuesday. Mrazek’s heroics in goal were crucial for the Blackhawks, who have been seeking a spark in their challenging season.
Chicago’s Cole Guttman scored the only regulation goal for the Blackhawks, while Rem Pitlick and Boris Katchouk secured the win in the tiebreaker. The Sharks, enduring a tough stretch with 15 losses in their last 16 games, saw Mackenzie Blackwood make 24 saves in a valiant effort.
Mrazek, starting his fifth consecutive game, expressed his enjoyment of shootouts and his confidence in playing consistently. His impactful return has been a positive development for the Blackhawks.
The game saw Guttman giving the Blackhawks an early lead with a power-play goal in the first period, capitalizing on a fortunate deflection off a Sharks defenseman. Despite the Sharks’ efforts, including a notable performance from Fabian Zetterlund with eight shots on goal, they couldn’t find the back of the net in regulation time.
The Sharks tied the game in the third period through Ryan Carpenter, set up by Justin Bailey’s excellent work behind the net. Carpenter praised Bailey’s speed and work ethic, highlighting the importance of winning puck battles.
Blackhawks coach Luke Richardson commended Mrazek for his leadership and energy, not just in goal but also in his interactions with the team, especially during the shootout.
The Sharks completed their five-game road trip with a 1-3-1 record, including a win against the Montreal Canadiens to snap a 12-game losing streak. Coach David Quinn emphasized the need for emotion and passion in the team’s play, acknowledging the challenges of a losing streak but praising the team’s effort against the Blackhawks.
The game also saw injuries to key players from both teams. Sharks center Mikael Granlund left the game after a hard check, and Blackhawks defenseman Nikita Zaitsev did not return for the third period due to an undisclosed injury.
Guttman’s goal highlights the contribution of Chicago’s rookies this season, tying them with the Columbus Blue Jackets for the most rookie goals in the NHL.
The Blackhawks, with this win, will aim to build momentum and continue their development, particularly from their younger players. The Sharks, facing a tough season, will look to regroup and find ways to turn their fortunes around, starting with their upcoming fixtures.
