The Chicago Blackhawks secured a 3-1 victory over the Florida Panthers on Thursday night with Petr Mrazek making 32 saves and Teuvo Teravainen scoring a crucial goal. Craig Smith and Nick Foligno also contributed to Chicago’s win, ending a three-game losing streak. Mrazek returned to the lineup after missing a previous game due to personal reasons. The Panthers, on the other hand, suffered their fourth loss in five games despite Sam Reinhart scoring his 15th goal. Spencer Knight made 17 saves for Florida.
Teravainen’s power-play goal in the first period set the pace for the Blackhawks, with Smith extending the lead to 2-0 in the second period. Reinhart quickly answered for Florida, but a late empty-net goal from Foligno secured the win for Chicago. The Panthers had missed key scoring opportunities throughout the game.
Chicago’s coach, Luke Richardson, was pleased with his team’s response to his call for more fight on the ice after a recent loss. The Blackhawks’ penalty kill, including a crucial kill by Wyatt Kaiser in the third period, contributed to their success against Florida. Foligno’s performance against the Panthers has been strong historically, with 10 goals and 14 assists in his career.
The Panthers will open a three-game homestand against Colorado, while Chicago will face Philadelphia in their next game. The Blackhawks improved to 3-5-0 at home this season with this win over the Panthers.
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