GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Sven Baertschi's natural hat trick propelled Utica to a 4-1 win over the Grand Rapids Griffins on Thursday at Van Andel Arena, giving the Comets a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals.
Comets netminder Jacob Markstrom made 40 saves to improve his record following a loss this postseason to 6-0, as Utica reclaimed home-ice advantage in the best-of-seven series.
The Griffins, who hadn't played at home since Game 2 of the conference semis against Rockford 20 days ago, will have an immediate chance at redemption when they host Game 4 on Friday at 7 p.