Connor Bedard delivered a decisive performance for the Chicago Blackhawks, scoring the game-winning goal with just 54 seconds left in regulation to clinch a 5-3 victory over the New York Islanders on Sunday at the United Center. After Ryan Donato’s wraparound attempt was deflected by Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin, Bedard collected the loose puck and fired a one-timer that found its way through Sorokin’s pads. The rookie phenom now boasts seven points (two goals, five assists) in his last five games, continuing his impressive form.
Teuvo Teravainen was instrumental in the Blackhawks’ victory, contributing a goal and two assists, while Connor Murphy added an empty-netter in the dying moments to seal the result. Chicago’s young roster showed remarkable composure, especially under pressure in the final period. Coach Anders Sorensen praised the team’s maturity and ability to execute in critical moments, emphasizing the role of younger players in the win. Arvid Soderblom made 30 saves to help Chicago snap a two-game losing streak.
The Islanders, coming off a win against the Blackhawks just days prior, struggled with defensive lapses that proved costly. Ryan Pulock, Simon Holmstrom, and Noah Dobson scored for New York, but their efforts weren’t enough to prevent the loss. Mathew Barzal, back in action after missing 21 games due to injury, felt the Islanders deserved a better outcome, citing defensive breakdowns as a key factor in the defeat.
The game was a rollercoaster of momentum swings. Chicago opened the scoring with Ilya Mikheyev’s goal in the first period, but Pulock quickly equalized. Taylor Hall restored the Blackhawks’ lead late in the period, only for Holmstrom to tie it again early in the second. Teravainen then put Chicago ahead on a power play, but Dobson responded early in the third, setting the stage for Bedard’s late-game heroics.
Despite the loss, the Islanders showed improvement in their defensive structure during the second and third periods, according to coach Patrick Roy. However, they couldn’t contain Chicago’s opportunistic offense. For the Blackhawks, the win marked a critical turning point, fueled by standout performances from Bedard and Teravainen, as they demonstrated resilience and the ability to capitalize in clutch situations.
