Bryan Bickell scored in overtime on a two-on-one rush, and the Chicago Blackhawks started the playoffs on a winning note after dominating the regular season, beating the Minnesota Wild 2-1 Tuesday night.
For all their accomplishments so far — the record-breaking start, the Presidents’ Trophy, the individual honors — the Chicago Blackhawks know this is the time of year that will define their season. They said the same thing all along. Jonathan Toews and Co. also know all the reasons for concern heading into their playoff series against the Minnesota Wild.
Devin Setoguchi broke a second-period tie and Niklas Backstrom stopped 29 shots, helping the Minnesota Wild secure their first playoff spot in five years with a 3-1 win over the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday night.
With their grip starting to slip on a spot in the playoffs, the Minnesota Wild responded with one of their most complete, aggressive performances of the season.