Chicago Blackhawks Send Series Back To LA With OT Win

Much like game 5 of the Eastern Conference Final the previous night, the team facing elimination got off to a fast start but had to overcome adversity to extend the series to a 6th game. Michal Handzus‘ goal 2:04 into the 2nd overtime period was the difference for the Chicago Blackhawks, as they beat the Los Angeles Kings 5-4. The goal came quickly in the 5th period, coming after a first overtime period that was played at a breathtaking pace by two teams desperate to win the game.

Chicago opened the scoring 1:13 in on a power play goal from Brent Seabrook, followed by Johnny Oduya two and a half minutes later to make it 2-0. Jarret Stoll got one back just before the midway mark of the period but Brandon Saad responded just over a minute later, making it 3-1. Patrick Kane, who had been all but invisible in this series, assisted on all 3 Chicago first period goals as part of a 4 point night.

However, the lead was not safe and before the first period was out, Marian Gaborik had narrowed the lead to 1 with his playoff-leading 11th goal.

Dustin Brown and Tanner Pearson scored for the Kings in the second period to move the Kings into the lead heading into the final 20 minutes (of regulation).