The Blackhawks responded after a devastating defeat on Thursday, recovering from two deficits in regulation and surviving an uncontrolled overtime to defeat the Lightning 4-3 in a Friday night shooting at United Center.
Even on his first day of retirement, Brent Seabrook’s impressions were throughout the brave performance.
The longtime defender watched from his own suite above the ice. After a slow start by the Hawks, a tribute video to Seabrook during the first TV break – and the standing ovation that followed from both seats – seemed to give the presenters a boost.
After the exciting victory, Seabrook was in the Hawks’ locker room talking to the team. Winger Patrick Kane also addressed Seabrook in front of the team.
“This victory was for him,” said defender Adam Boqvist.
Coach Jeremy Colliton added: “It definitely meant something to the crowd. It’s good for our group to feel [Seabrook’s] Support, support. He wants us to win. He won’t be here every day, but he is still part of the group. And that is worth something. “
A string of great saves from Malcolm Subban in overtime and a kick from the top platform by pivot Philipp Kurashev in the third round of the penalty shootout gave the Hawks their first win this season over the current Stanley Cup champion.
Two goals from winger Alex DeBrincat – leading to a tie for second place in the NHL with 14 this season – and a rebound from winger Dominik Kubalik in the third period helped the Hawks overcome their 2-0 and 3-2 deficits, respectively .
Even so, Lightning controlled most of the game and had considerable advantages in goal kicks (40-27) and goal chances (49-29). Defender Calvin de Haan’s departure with an injury also hurt. Colliton said he did not think it would be a long-term problem, but it could hinder his availability for the end of Sunday’s series.
The Hawks owe the victory to some timely moves, Subban’s belated heroism and a crucial penalty for surviving OT.
“We were not doing well,” said Colliton. “We didn’t play very well. But we found a way. And that is a great confidence booster. ”