Things got off to an extremely rough start for the Phoenix Coyotes, but they're back on track heading into the first intermission. Bryan Bickell opened the scoring for the Chicago Blackhawks less than four minutes into the first period, but Phoenix has answered with two goals of their own, and they lead Game 2 at the first intermission by a score of 2-1.
Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks, NHL Playoffs 2012 Game 2: Phoenix Leads 2-1 At First Intermission
Antoine Vermette won a trip to the penalty box less than two minutes into the game for a slash on Patrick Sharp. Mike Smith made some great saves on the ensuing power play, but they couldn't kill it off. At the very end of the power play, Dave Bolland put a shot on net and Smith struggled to control the rebound. It fell to Bickell, who finished off the chance to put the Blackhawks ahead.
Raffi Torres provided an even strength answer 8:52 into the period with a goal, assisted by Shane Doan. Three minutes later, Jonathan Toews picked up a penalty for goalie interference and the Coyotes would capitalize on their power play. Vermette finished it off to redeem himself for his early error, deflecting a shot from the blue line by Keith Yandle.
Besides the rebound he gave up to Bolland, Smith has been nearly flawless in net so far for Phoenix, making a fantastic 16 saves in the first period. Corey Crawford has not looked nearly as sharp for the Blackhawks.
We’ll have coverage throughout the game in our Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks Game 2 StoryStream. For more on the Coyotes, check in with Five For Howling and SB Nation Arizona. For more on the Blackhawks, check in with Second City Hockey and SB Nation Chicago.
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