The Los Angeles Kings headed to the Windy City on Sunday night hoping to pick up a win over the Chicago Blackhawks and keep pace in the Western Conference playoff race. They accomplished their goal, although it wasn't easy. The Kings ultimately prevailed by picking up a 3-2 win via shootout.
The Kings opened the scoring in the first period when Slava Voynov found the net in the opening ninety seconds of the game. In the second period, the Kings took a 2-1 lead on Jeff Carter's 19th goal of the season. The Blackhawks tied up the game in the third period on a goal by Patrick Kane and that's where the scoring stood until the end of overtime.
In the shootout, the Blackhawks missed one and Jonathan Quick saved four before Mike Richards scored on Ray Emery. Marcus Kruger missed his subsequent shot and the Kings were awarded the victory.
The Kings are now tied with the Colorado Avalanche and the Calgary Flames at 76 points -- all three teams currently fighting for the eighth playoff spot in the conference. Los Angeles is also only two points behind the Phoenix Coyotes in the Pacific Division.
For all news and information regarding the Los Angeles Kings, please visit Jewels From the Crown. For updates and perspective on the Chicago Blackhawks, head on over to Second City Hockey. For everything about the NHL, check out SB Nation's dedicated pro hockey hub.
