Blackhawks Edge Ducks 2-1 in Quenneville’s Return to Chicago
Introduction to the Game
CHICAGO (AP) — Ryan Donato scored from the edge of the crease at 2:58 of overtime and the Chicago Blackhawks beat Anaheim 2-1 on Sunday night in Ducks coach Joel Quenneville’s first game at United Center since being banned in a sexual assault scandal.
Background on Quenneville’s Ban
The ban stemmed for the scandal involving his 2010 Stanley Cup champion Blackhawks squad that surfaced in October 2021. Quenneville was forced to resign as Florida’s coach, then banned from the NHL for nearly three years before taking over the Ducks in May. He won three titles in 10 years with the Blackhawks.
Game Highlights
Donato had his third goal in three games. Connor Bedard set up it from behind the net to cap a 3-on-1 rush. Fank Nazar also scored to help Chicago improve to 3-0-1 in its last four.
Goalie Performance
Spencer Knight made 38 saves and was beaten only on Mason McTavish’s power-play goal from a sharp angle with 35.8 seconds left in the third period.
Ducks’ Late Effort
McTavish scored on a rising shot from low in the right circle for his first goal of the season on Anaheim’s 36th shot and fifth manpower advantage. Wyatt Kaiser had been sent off for delay of game with 1:47 left after lifting the puck over the glass.
Outcome and Next Matches
Knight outdueled Lukas Dostal, who stopped 28 shots in Anaheim’s second straight loss.
Up next
Ducks: At Nashville on Tuesday night.
Blackhawks: At Tampa Bay on Thursday night.
Conclusion
The Chicago Blackhawks secured a 2-1 overtime win against the Anaheim Ducks, marking a significant victory in what was a highly anticipated matchup due to Joel Quenneville’s return to Chicago. The game showcased strong performances from both teams, with Ryan Donato’s overtime goal being the decisive factor.
FAQs
- Q: Who scored the winning goal for the Blackhawks?
- A: Ryan Donato scored the winning goal in overtime.
- Q: Why was Joel Quenneville banned from the NHL?
- A: Quenneville was banned due to his involvement in a sexual assault scandal related to his 2010 Stanley Cup champion Blackhawks squad.
- Q: What are the next matches for the Ducks and the Blackhawks?
- A: The Ducks will play at Nashville on Tuesday night, and the Blackhawks will play at Tampa Bay on Thursday night.