UPDATE: In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the Chicago Blackhawks faced a 3-2 shootout loss against the Vancouver Canucks on March 15, 2024. The defeat marks the Blackhawks’ 11th consecutive loss to the Canucks since 2021, raising urgent questions about the team’s performance as they struggle with a 2-2-2 record early this season.
The Blackhawks surged ahead in the first period, scoring twice and dominating with a 13-5 advantage in scoring chances. However, the tide turned dramatically in the second period. The pivotal moment came when Tyler Bertuzzi believed he had scored the go-ahead goal with just 5:12 left in regulation. The goal was disallowed due to a controversial call for goaltender interference, infuriating players and fans alike.
Connor Murphy revealed that referee Kelly Sutherland explained the decision was based on the puck being lodged under Canucks goalie Kevin Lankinen’s pad, rendering it a dead puck. Murphy stated, “They looked at that as a dead puck even though the whistle still wasn’t blown.” Bertuzzi expressed his frustration, stating, “I think it was not that great of a call.” Coach Jeff Blashill supported Bertuzzi, saying he would challenge the call “10 out of 10 times.”
Despite the setback, the Blackhawks fought to stay competitive, surviving two Canucks power plays before heading into overtime. Goalie Spencer Knight made crucial saves, but the Blackhawks ultimately fell short in the shootout, failing on four attempts before Brock Boeser clinched the win for Vancouver.
Murphy emphasized the lessons learned from this defeat, stating, “To not put together enough of a push to take a team’s will away…is a big difference in winning and losing.” The Blackhawks need to convert their leads into victories to avoid further disappointment.
In a surprising twist, a much-anticipated fight involving Hawks forward Jason Dickinson did not occur. Instead, Canucks forward Kiefer Sherwood ended up scrapping with Bertuzzi. Dickinson, who is playing through an upper-body injury, briefly exited the game but did not engage in any fights.
On a lighter note, Hawks defenseman Louis Crevier made headlines last weekend for his unexpected fight against Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle, marking his first fight in the NHL and since grade school. Crevier took a punch to the left eye but stood his ground, showcasing his physicality on the ice.
Blashill praised rookie sensation Connor Bedard, who took seven shot attempts but couldn’t find the back of the net. “He wants to win more than anything else,” Blashill stated, highlighting Bedard’s determination and commitment to the team’s culture.
As the Blackhawks regroup after this tough loss, fans are left wondering how they will bounce back in their next games. The team’s ability to capitalize on leads and adapt in high-pressure situations will be crucial as they seek to break their losing streak against the Canucks. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
