The Chicago Blackhawks and Coyotes battled to a scoreless third period on Monday at the United Center before Phoenix buried its first two shootout chances to earn the victory. Jonathan Toews and Marian Hossa were both denied by Phoenix goalie Mike Smith to secure a 4-3 win for the Coyotes.
The Blackhawks once trailed 3-0, so escaping with a point serves as a very real silver lining. Without the efforts of the captain Toews, Chicago would likely be headed home empty-handed. Toews has been on a tear as of late and he continued his hot streak on Monday. Down 3-0, Toews scored two goals (his 16th and 17th goals of the season) and helped set-up Patrick Kane to knot the game at three.
The 'Hawks out-shot Phoenix 35-27 and dominated faceoffs 32-18.
Chicago pulled starting goalie Corey Crawford after Keith Yandle's goal made it 3-0 Phoenix. Backup Ray Emery did not allow a goal until the shootout.
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