NHL: Chicago Blackhawks at Anaheim Ducks - Source: Imagn — Blackhawks' coach Richardson critiques Teravainen's performance in overtime loss (Image Source: IMAGN)

Blackhawks HC Luke Richardson doesn't mince his analysis of Teuvo Teravainen's weak shot that eventually led to 2-1 loss

Modified Oct 12, 2024 08:01 GMT

In a tight game against the Winnipeg Jets on Friday, the Chicago Blackhawks lost 2-1 in overtime. Head coach Luke Richardson pointed out a key moment: Teuvo Teravainen’s weak shot in overtime. This shot gave the Jets back the puck and led to Mark Scheifele's winning goal just 37 seconds later.

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The Blackhawks played well overall, with Ryan Donato scoring their only goal. However, they struggled to keep up their momentum at crucial times. The Hawks had a solid game with few turnovers, but they couldn’t convert scoring chances. The Blackhawks registered 26 shots, while the Winnipeg Jets had 35. The Jets also dominated the faceoff, winning 63.3% of them.

The first line, with Connor Bedard and Teravainen, was expected to score more. However, both players were quiet, combining for only one shot on goal. They created seven scoring chances during even-strength play but didn’t challenge Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck enough. Richardson noted the disappointment after the Jets tied the game with just over a minute left (via Chicago Sun-Times):

“We put pucks behind them and tried to make them make the mistakes and unfortunately just didn’t get that second goal,” Richardson said. “They pressed and pushed and . . . got that tying goal, which is a little deflating. We’ve got to finish the game off.”

Teravainen is known for his passing skills and strong defense, making his contributions important. He scored 53 points for the Carolina Hurricanes last season. He had 25 goals and 28 assists with a plus-minus of 15. His low analytics may have influenced the Hurricanes' decision not to match the Blackhawks' offer in free agency.

Chicago Blackhawks seek improvement after Soderblom's strong performance in tough loss

Despite the loss, backup goalie Arvid Soderblom stood out, making 34 saves and showing better rebound control. He almost earned his first career shutout, but the late collapse overshadowed his efforts.

Forward Ryan Donato notes that the Chicago played well for most of the game. He also highlighted Soderblom's strong performance (via NHL.com):

“We played a solid game,” Donato said. “[Soderblom] played great. But it’s just, you’ve got to play 60 minutes of good hockey, not 59. At the end of the day, we did some good things but it’s just not good enough.”

The Blackhawks will look to focus on improving their offense and ensuring key players like Teravainen can step up in important moments. They won't have much time though, as they face the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place on Saturday.