Kurashev’s Overtime Winner Powers Blackhawks Past Wild 2-1
Philipp Kurashev’s goal 1:48 into overtime secured a 2-1 victory for the Chicago Blackhawks over the Minnesota Wild on Sunday night, snapping a two-game losing streak and a 12-game winless stretch against Minnesota dating back to December 2019.
Kurashev fired a quick shot from the left wing that sailed past Wild goaltender Filip Gustavsson, giving the Blackhawks the dramatic win. Petr Mrazek was solid in net for Chicago, stopping 32 of 33 shots, including several key saves in the third period to help the Blackhawks hold on.
Minnesota had tied the game late in the third period when Matt Boldy scored with 4:31 remaining, bringing the game to 1-1 on the Wild’s 32nd shot of the night. Jason Dickinson had opened the scoring in the first period for the Blackhawks.
The Wild dominated possession in the final frame, outshooting Chicago 19-4 in the third period and 33-22 overall. However, Mrazek was able to keep the Blackhawks ahead with several close-range saves, and the team killed off three Wild power plays during the game to limit Minnesota’s chances.
Gustavsson finished with 20 saves for the Wild, but the Blackhawks held on for their first win over Minnesota in nearly four years. The victory was a much-needed boost for Chicago, who had struggled with consistency over their previous two games.
One of the key moments of the game came late in the second period when Mrazek lost his stick after being bumped in the crease. Forward Taylor Hall quickly handed him his stick, and Mrazek used it to deny Jake Middleton’s shot with just 25 seconds left in the period.
Dickinson’s goal, his second of the season, ended a 10-game goal drought. Last season, he set a career-high with 22 goals, tying for the team lead.
The Wild, with a record of 10-2-3 and 23 points, are off to their best start after 15 games in franchise history. Despite their late push, they were unable to close out the game and extend their winning streak.
For the Blackhawks, the win was a confidence booster, especially after limiting Minnesota’s offensive chances for most of the game. Coach Luke Richardson emphasized the importance of keeping the Wild from gaining momentum, which his team was able to do until late in the third period.
