The Chicago Blackhawks made a late move this past season to bring back Brandon Saad after his exile to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
At least for one night it was a success as Saad scored a hat trick in a 10-1 thumping of the visiting Pittsburgh Penguins.
“It’s exciting, for sure, to get [a hat trick] and then to be in this building,” Saad said. “It’s an incredible building to play in, and to have that support and get a hat trick on the first night, it definitely feels good.”
Fourteen skaters had at least one point for the Hawks.
Patrick Sharp struck for a goal in his first game back with Chicago.
Ryan Hartman scored once and added four assists, Patrick Kane also scored once and added three assists, Nick Schmaltz struck for two goals, Brent Seabrook had one goal, and Richard Panik added a single marker.
“It was almost like it wasn’t a real game or something. I mean, it was just amazing. It was a fun start to be part of. It’s not like we were trying to run up the score or rub it in anyone’s face. We were just out there playing hockey, and guys were excited to play again,” Kane said after the win.
Corey Crawford made 28 savesto pick up the win.
“It’s embarrassing,” Sidney Crosby said. “It was 4-0 [just] 10 minutes into the game. I don’t know what to say, to be honest with you. We made mistakes and they buried them. Sometimes you make those mistakes and you get away with them. They capitalized on every one.”
Phil Kesselhad the lone strike for the Pens making the score 5-1.
[WATCH: All Penguins vs. Blackhawks highlights]
Antti Niemi got the start for the Penguins in their second game in two nights. Niemi yielded four goals on just 13 shots and was given the hook in favor of Matt Murray, who allowed six goals on 31 shots.
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