Recap: Blackhawks 3, Hurricanes 1

The Chicago Blackhawks jumped out to an early 2-0 lead and held on the rest of the way to defeat the Carolina Hurricanes, 3-1 on Monday night at the PNC Arena.

Chicago goalie Corey Crawford made 43 saves to earn his 30th win of the season.

The visitors scored twice in the first 10 minutes of the game to take early control.  First, Andrew Shaw found an opening in the Carolina defense, then Patrick Sharp got a step in alone as well.

The Hurricanes offense started out a bit slow but might have gotten a tongue lashing in the first intermission because they came out with more fire in the second period.  They outshot the Hawks 19-6 in the second and 44-25 for the game.

The home team got on the board early in the second period when Victor Rask knocked in a rebound on an Eric Staal shot, but that would be the only puck to get past Crawford.

Once again, the Hurricanes pulled their goalie for an extra attacker late in the game but failed in their attempt.  They allowed their ninth empty net goal of the season when Shaw skated the puck down deep to score.

Congratulations goes to Chicago coach Joel Quenneville, who earned his 750th career win with the victory.  The former Hartford Whaler has the third most wins as a coach in NHL history.

Next up for Carolina will be the Pittsburgh Penguins at home on Thursday night.

Game Notes:

• The Canes were not called for a single penalty all game long.  The Hawks were called just once.
• Justin Faulk led the way with nine shots on goal.  He was darting in at times, trying to create something on offense, but also went (-2).  He had three hits and 22:52 of ice time, second only to Ron Hainsey who finished with 23:16.
• Speaking of Hainsey, it was good to see him skate over to defend teammate Riley Nash after he was checked a bit into the boards.  Nash had a team high four hits.  The team was credited with 33 for the game.
• Post game interviews and stats CANESPR