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Blackhawks lose special teams battle, fall 4-2 to Red Wings

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Chicago Blackhawks forward Connor Bedard and Dylan Larkin of the Detroit Red Wings get ready for the faceoff to start the preseason game on Sept. 25.
Connor Bedard and Dylan Larkin prepare for the opening faceoff of the Blackhawks/Red Wings preseason game on Sept. 25.

The Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings entered the third period tied 2-2 on Wednesday night, but that changed quickly after a power play goal by Lucas Raymond gave the Red Wings a 3-2 lead. The Wings would go on to win the game 4 to 2. 

Blackhawks start preseason with loss to Red Wings.

The Blackhawks emphasized scrimmaging throughout the start of training camp. The lack of time spent on special teams might have cost them in the opening game as they finished the night 0 for 4 on the power play and 2 for 3 on the penalty kill.

Petr Mrazek played the first and second period of tonight’s game. One of Mrazek’s first shots faced on the night ended up in his own net, as did one of his last shots faced after a Jeff Petry slapshot with traffic infront. While Mrazek let up two goals, he did have some big saves throughout the night. Facing 23 shots on goal, Mrazek made 21 saves finishing with a .913 save percentage.

Power Play Struggles:

The Blackhawks finished the night going 0 for 4 on the power play, registering just six shots while on the man advantage. The Blackhawks started off strong with their first power play, generating some scoring chances and some good touches between Teravainen, Bedard and company – but that did not continue throughout the night. The Hawks had a hard time holding the offensive zone throughout the man advantag. Once the puck was cleared failed to get set up again in the offensive zone.

Special teams has not been a focus throughout training camp thus far, that will have to change in the coming days.

While special teams struggled, the Blackhawks did manage to play some competitive hockey at five on five. Bedard had some standout moments alongside his linemates Tyler Bertuzzi and Teuvo Teravainen. Craig Smith also had some good moments including a big goal to open the team’s scoring.

Highlights:

Blackhawks first goal of the night: Craig Smith assisted by Ryan Donato and TJ Brodie.

Shortly after, Teuvo Teravainen put the Blackhawks up by one after a setup from Connor Bedard.

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