Artemi Panarin laced a shot past Brian Elliott on Sunday night, giving the Blackhawks a critical 1-0 lead over the Blues.
It took a little time – the goal came nearly 15 minutes into the second period – but it had its desired effect. Some of the pressure was off the tired Blackhawks and put on the equally-fatigued Blues. A little more than 25 minutes later, the Blackhawks were claiming their 13th victory in their last 15 games.
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It goes without saying that getting that first goal gives the scoring team an edge.