Chicago, IL

Johnny Oduya and Marcus Kruger scored in the third period while Corey Crawford made 20 saves in Chicago Blackhawks 4-1 win over the Detroit Red Wings in their second-round series opener at the United Center.

Patrick Sharp forced a turnover along the boards and Jonathan Toews sent the puck to Marian Hossa, who one-timed it past Howard at 9:03 of the first for the Blackhawks' opening goal.

The Red Wings needed less than two minutes to respond, tying it when Damien Brunner poked in a rebound.

Chicago kept working and went in front after Oduya drifted in from the point and sent Sharp's pass past Jimmy Howard on the glove side with 12 minutes left.

Kruger then jumped on a loose puck and sent a backhander into the upper right corner to make it 4-1.

"I thought it was our best game of the playoffs, no question," Sharp said.

Howard had 38 stops in a terrific performance in a losing cause for the Red Wings.

 

 

Article: Copyright ©, iHaveNet.com

Marcus Oduya and Marcus Kruger Push Blackhawks Past Red Wings