Bobrovsky, Panthers shut out Chicago, 4-0

In Sunrise, Aleksander Barkov hit for a double on Thursday night, and the Florida Panthers defeated the Chicago Blackhawks, 4-0.

Sergei Bobrovsky made 37 save in the Panthers shutout, it was his third of the season.

“We just couldn’t get it by their goalie,” Chicago coach Derek King said. “He stood on his head. We had numerous opportunities point blank and they just weren’t going in. They were coming back to the bench shaking their head.”

The Panthers moved to 46-15-6.

“He (Bobrovsky) was locked in,” Panthers coach Andrew Brunette said. “We knew they’re a team with a lot of pride and it was a big night for them. They were going to try to win one for [Toews]. ‘Bob’ was outstanding.”

Chicago’s Jonathan Toews played in his 1,000th career NHL game.

“It was a special game, win or lose,” Toews said. “It’s just a special personal accomplishment and I want to tell my teammates how thankful I am for their support.”

Barkov opened the scoring in the game in the first period to give the Panthers a 1-0 lead, Ryan Lomberg added a marker in the middle frame for a 2-0 lead.

Gustav Forsling scored for Florida to extend the advantage to 3-0 late in the second period.

Jonathan Huberdeau had an assist, his 71st of the season to set an NHL record for left wingers.

“Cool moment,” Huberdeau said. “Couldn’t do it without my team. I’ve been aware of it on social media, but I didn’t try to think about it. You keep going, keep piling assists.”

Barkov scored off the power play in the 14th minute of the third period for the 4-0 final.

“Everyone wants to score goals and to get 30 in this league isn’t easy,” Barkov said. “I’m playing with really good players, and I’m so thankful.”