The Chicago Blackhawks entered their matchup with the Nashville Predators on October 24 eager to end a two-game losing streak, having faced unfavorable outcomes due to slow starts. The Predators, on the other hand, were also looking to regain momentum after a rough start to the season at 1-5. Here are four key takeaways from the Blackhawks’ 3-2 loss to the Predators.
1. Lukas Reichel and Craig Smith Drive Blackhawks Offense
I never anticipated that Craig Smith and Lukas Reichel would emerge as one of the team’s top offensive duos this early in the season, but here we are. They combined for two goals against the Buffalo Sabres on October 19, showcasing strong chemistry for that fourth line, alongside Pat Maroon. Smith opened the scoring with a goal assisted by Reichel, and defenseman Nolan Allan registered his first NHL point on the play, making it a memorable moment. Reichel has continued to impress, earning a promotion to the second line against the Vancouver Canucks, and even received another during the game, joining Teuvo Teravainen and Connor Bedard.
2. Blackhawks Break Away from Slow Starts—For Now
After struggling with slow starts in their previous two games, the Blackhawks needed a strong beginning. Though Nashville’s fourth line had some early chances, the Blackhawks quickly found their rhythm, highlighted by Jason Dickinson’s takeaway, aggressive plays from Wyatt Kaiser and Ryan Donato, Smith’s opening goal, and a 10-6 advantage in shots on goal. Had they started slow again, this analysis would likely be quite different, but it was a solid response against a major rival. While a victory would have improved the scenario, the hope is that this trend of better starts continues.
3. Connor Bedard Finally Scores
Amidst concerns that Connor Bedard had only scored one goal in his previous seven games, he came out vigorously and increased the Blackhawks’ lead to 2-0, thanks to assists from Alex Vlasic and Connor Murphy. Bedard, known for his scoring ability, displayed frustration over his lack of puck luck, but things finally clicked for him that night. He and Ilya Mikheyev shared the team lead in shots, each with four.
4. Blackhawks’ Happiness Was Brief
Despite several positive aspects of the game, reminders of the old Blackhawks emerged. They played well in the first period but allowed two goals in the second, enabling the Predators to tie the game 2-2, including a short-handed goal from Gustav Nyquist. Both teams faced a significant number of penalties—five for the Blackhawks—yet Chicago failed to convert on any of their power play opportunities. A potential third goal by Teuvo Teravainen was called back for offsides, and in a swift turn of events, the score shifted to 3-2 in favor of the Predators. If Teravainen’s goal had counted, the outcome might have been different. Unfortunately, when the Blackhawks struggle, they seem to struggle deeply.
Following an exhilarating start, this loss was tough for Chicago, as they appeared to turn a corner in the first period only to revert to their previous struggles in closing out games. Additionally, Nashville tends to have their number historically.
The Blackhawks will aim to break their three-game losing streak in their next game against the Dallas Stars on October 26.
