TORONTO -- Here's a quick look at the Chicago Blackhawks' 3-2 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday at the Air Canada Centre:
How it happened: After Nazem Kadri gave the Leafs the lead late in the first period, the Blackhawks both equalized and took the lead on power-play goals. First it was Brad Richards scoring his first goal as a Blackhawk by firing in a shot from the point to tie things up before the end of the opening frame. Just more than four minutes into the second, Brent Seabrook fired a hard shot from just inside the blue line that found its way into the net. It was an improved special-teams showing for the Blackhawks, who entered the game having scored just twice in their previous 13 power-play opportunities.
Unfortunately for Chicago, the lead lasted barely a minute. Johnny Oduya made a poor giveaway in his own end to Leafs winger James van Riemsdyk, who converted right away. In the third period, Toronto went ahead for good on Peter Holland's one-timer that slipped past Corey Crawford.
The Blackhawks outshot the Leafs by a 26-7 margin in the third period and got another two chances on the power play, yet despite this offensive flurry, they couldn't notch the tying goal.
What it means: The Blackhawks dropped to 6-4-1. While the power play took a step forward, the team is still struggling to score in 5-on-5 play. The Blackhawks entered the game having scored just 15 goals in even-strength play -- eighth-lowest in the NHL. The Maple Leafs improved to 6-4-1.
Player of the game: Leafs goalie James Reimer held the Blackhawks attack in check by making 45 saves. Reimer was particularly impressive during Chicago's first power-play chance in the third period, as he made two big saves and got a bit of luck in the form of a Richards shot off the crossbar.
Stat of the game: The Blackhawks' 26 shots in the third was the most shots they've taken in a single period this season and easily topped their previous high of 19.
What's next: The Blackhawks continue their string of games against Canadian opponents when they host the Winnipeg Jets on Sunday night at the United Center. The Blackhawks then travel to Montreal to face the Canadiens on Tuesday.
