The Chicago Blackhawks ended the Edmonton Oilers five-game win streak with a 3-1 win Monday night.
The first period was scoreless thanks to the excellent play of both goaltenders. Edmonton’s Mike Smith and Chicago’s Corey Crawford both turned aside several good chances.
Smith held the Oilers in the game in the second period as the Blackhawks had a 17-6 advantage in shots. Patrick Kane scored off a face-off early in the frame to give Chicago the lead.
It was in that second period where Oilers head coach Dave Tippett noted things slipped away from his team.
LISTEN BELOW: Oilers Head Coach Dave Tippett following Edmonton’s loss to the Blackhawks
“I thought we were alright in the first, they took over in the second and we were just chasing in the third,” Tippett said.
Alexander Nylander slid a shot under Smith to make it 2-0 6:20 into the third. James Neal finally put the Oilers on the board, scoring a power play goal with 2:11 left. Smith was on the bench for an extra attacker. Brandon Saad clinched the Chicago win with an empty net goal in the final minute.
The Oilers had their fair share chances, but just weren’t able to make them go.
“Some of our chances were better chances, we didn’t capitalize on, either missed the net or (Corey) Crawford made big saves,” said Tippett. “It was a game that whoever was going to go first seemed like they were going to be able to play their style.”
LISTEN BELOW: Oilers vs Blackhawks from United Center highlights
Draisaitl extended his point streak to six games. Smith made 32 saves.
The Oilers, 5-1-0, will host Philadelphia on Wednesday.