Recap
3 min read

Blackhawks Blanked by Kings in United Center Battle

The Chicago Blackhawks, with a record of 0-1, faced off against the Los Angeles Kings, who came into the game with a 1-0 record. The final score read 5-0 in favor of the visiting team.


Mar 15, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles Kings forward Anze Kopitar (11) redirects the puck past Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Arvid Soderblom (40) for his second goal of the first period at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

The Blackhawks entered the game hoping to secure their first win of the season but were met with an overwhelming force as the Kings dominated from the start. The home team struggled to find their rhythm throughout all three periods, unable to convert on any of their scoring opportunities despite taking 28 shots on goal. The powerplay unit failed to capitalize on four chances, which could have shifted momentum in their favor.


On defense, Chicago's goaltender made an impressive total of 32 saves but was ultimately let down by lapses that led to five goals against. In contrast, Los Angeles' goalie had a perfect night between the pipes with a save percentage rounding up to one hundred percent after stopping all 28 shots he faced.


Mar 15, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles Kings goaltender Cam Talbot (39) tracks the puck as defenseman Drew Doughty (8) helps defend in the second period against the Chicago Blackhawks at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

The Kings' offense was relentless from the get-go as they established a commanding lead early on by netting four goals in just one period and adding another in the second period for good measure. Their powerplay contributed one goal out of three opportunities while also maintaining discipline by only serving eight penalty minutes throughout the contest.


Chicago's players did manage some positive stats despite not lighting up the scoreboard; they delivered more hits than Los Angeles at twenty-three and managed eleven takeaways compared to eight from their opponents. However, these efforts were overshadowed by six giveaways and failing to win more than forty-eight percent of faceoffs – both areas where improvement is needed moving forward.


Mar 15, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles Kings forward Alex Turcotte (38) celebrates after teammate forward Alex Laferriere (78) scores a goal in the first period against the Chicago Blackhawks at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Sabau-USA TODAY Sports

As fans look ahead after this tough loss at home, they can mark their calendars for when Chicago will seek redemption against another California-based team. The Blackhawks are set for action again at United Center against San Jose Sharks on March 17th at 5:00 PM CT. Fans can catch this upcoming match live through various broadcast networks including ESPN+ online and NBCS-CHI or NBCS-CA on television.

Rate the article

Related stories

Chicago Blackhawks Edge Out Minnesota Wild in Overtime Victory
Recap

Chicago Blackhawks Edge Out Minnesota Wild in Overtime Victory

3 min read
Chicago Blackhawks' Effort Falls Short Against Dallas Stars in a Close Encounter
Recap

Chicago Blackhawks' Effort Falls Short Against Dallas Stars in a Close Encounter

3 min read
Can the Chicago Blackhawks Bounce Back After Falling to the Red Wings?
Recap

Can the Chicago Blackhawks Bounce Back After Falling to the Red Wings?

3 min read