Predators strike back, even series with Game 2 rout of Blackhawks
The Nashville Predators overcame the loss of their captain Friday night, cruising to a 6-2 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks and tying their Western Conference quarterfinal series at 1-1.
Craig Smith scored the go-ahead goal in the second period, and the Predators added three more in the third en route to the decisive win.
Nashville captain Shea Weber left in the second period with a lower-body injury and did not return.
Star Performer: Smith also scored one of the Predators' three third-period markers and finished with three points.
Turning Point: Clinging to a 2-1 lead early in the second frame, the Predators killed off a four-minute Blackhawks power play after Paul Gaustad was given a double-minor for high-sticking Michal Rozsival.
Blackhawks forward Patrick Sharp hit the goalpost late in the man advantage.
Goalie Comparison: Corey Crawford had a forgettable night that might cost him a Game 3 start, while Pekka Rinne was solid:
| Goalie | Shots | GA | Saves | SV% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crawford | 35 | 6 | 29 | .829 |
| Rinne | 26 | 2 | 24 | .923 |
Top Highlight:
It didn't end up making a difference, but Patrick Kane's goal in the second period should not have counted:
That's too many men on the line change and in the goal celebration.
Stat of the Night: Nashville set a pair of franchise records, according to communications staffer Brooks Bratten:
The #Preds have set a playoff franchise record for the fastest 3 goals...just scored 3 in 2:19. Also most goals in a playoff game with 6.
— Brooks Bratten (@brooksbratten) April 18, 2015
Series at a Glance:
Game 1: Blackhawks 4, Predators 3 (OT)
Game 2: Predators 6, Blackhawks 2
Game 3: Sunday, April 19, 3 p.m. ET
Game 4: Tuesday, April 21, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 5*: Thursday, April 23, TBA
Game 6*: Saturday, April 25, TBA
Game 7*: Monday, April 27, TBA
*If necessary