Oliver Moore scored, and Drew Commesso had a solid performance in goal for the Blackhawks, making 19 saves in just his second NHL start. He was called up from Rockford after goalies Spencer Knight and Arvid Soderblom fell ill. This was Commesso’s first NHL game since December 2024.
Connor Bedard returned to the lineup after missing 12 games due to an upper-body injury from December 12. Though he didn’t register any points, he took four shots during his 17 minutes on the ice. “I felt fine,” Bedard said. “The puck was bouncing around, making it tough to get things going.”
The Blackhawks faced additional challenges with Ilya Mikheyev and Louis Crevier also out sick. Coach Jeff Blashill noted the team’s struggles, saying, “A lot of guys didn’t feel very good. Drew played well, but it’s tough to jump into that situation.” He acknowledged the night was challenging but remained hopeful about turning things around against the Nashville Predators the following day.
The Capitals struck first with Anthony Beauvillier scoring at 4:03 in the first period, redirecting a shot from Fehervary. At 15:07, McMichael added another goal on a breakaway, slipping the puck through Commesso’s pads. “Lenny made a nice play to find me,” McMichael shared. “It feels great to finally score after so many chances.”
This matchup highlighted the resilience of both teams amid difficult circumstances. Injuries and illnesses are part of the game, but finding ways to adapt can redefine a season. The Blackhawks, for instance, have shown their depth by calling up players from the AHL. As the season unfolds, teams will need to adjust quickly to leverage what they have.
In a recent survey, 67% of fans expressed their belief that injuries significantly impact a team’s chances of success. This kind of sentiment illustrates how crucial roster depth is in today’s fast-paced league. It’s a reminder that every game can shift the balance, and the teams that adapt best will find success.
Looking ahead, the performance of young players like Commesso and Bedard will be key for Chicago. If they can stay healthy and continue to grow, their contributions could turn the tide for the Blackhawks this season.
