Jake Evans scored twice and set up Kaiden Guhle’s goal as the Montreal Canadiens defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1 on Friday night at the United Center.
Evans matched his career high with three points, assisting Guhle’s goal with 1:34 left in the second period. The Canadiens improved to 4-1-1 in their last six games, while Chicago has lost four of its last six matches, including two straight.
The Blackhawks opened the scoring early, with Connor Bedard netting his second goal of the season 4:23 into the game. However, Montreal quickly took control. By the middle of the first period, the Canadiens limited Chicago’s scoring chances and tightened their defence.
Evans tied the game at 1-1 with 2:31 remaining in the first. His second goal came 7:51 into the second period, a wrist shot over goalie Spencer Knight’s stick side while the Canadiens were short-handed. This gave Montreal a 2-1 lead.
Guhle extended the lead with a shot from the left point that beat Knight on the stick side, helped by a screen from Josh Anderson. Mike Matheson sealed the win with an empty-net goal at 2:38 remaining.
Jacob Fowler, Montreal’s goaltender, made 20 saves and was tested lightly after the first period, despite five Chicago power plays. In the final period, Fowler faced only three shots. Knight stopped 24 shots for Chicago.
The Canadiens will face the Winnipeg Jets in the outdoor Heritage Classic on Sunday. The Blackhawks will host Florida on the same day.
According to Yahoo Sports.
