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Blackhawks Take the Spark Out of the Lightning with a Shut Out

Written by: EricC on 14th December 2009

Antti Niemi got his third shut out of the season in Sunday night’s United Center game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Chicago Blackhawks played a great game against Tampa Bay, holding them to only 18 shots, while taking 29 of their own. This win has given the Blackhawks a four point lead in the Central Division.

Patrick Kane started off the scoring with a goal in the first seven minutes of play; Duncan Keith had the assist. Half way through the second period, Marian Hossa put a perfect pass in front of the net, allowing Ben Eager to smash in goal number two. With less than twenty seconds remaining in the second period, Hossa used his hand to bring down a high pass from Patrick Sharp, one timing it in before it even hit the ice. Six minutes into the final period, Jonathan Toews put in Dustin Byfuglien’s rebounded shot, giving the Hawks a four goal lead.

With less than two minutes left in the game, Troy Brouwer had a chance with a Penalty Shot, but it was unsuccessful. The Hawks still managed to take down their opponents, 4-0.

Niemi grabbed his sixth win and third shut out of the season, saving all of Tampa Bay’s 18 shots. He now has an impressive Save Percentage of 93.7%, only giving up 12 goals all season.

The Blackhawk’s next game will be their first game against their Division Rivals, the St. Louis Blues. The game will take place this Wednesday, December 16, at 7:30 P.M. CT. The Blues are currently trailing the Division with a 13-12-5 record.