Darling leads Blackhawks over Preds for 2-1 series lead

Chicago, IL (SportsNetwork.com) – Scott Darling made 35 saves to lead the
Chicago Blackhawks in a 4-2 win over the Nashville Predators in Game 3 of this
Western Conference quarterfinal series.

Darling made his first career playoff start in place of Corey Crawford, who
had been pulled in the series opener after allowing three goals in the opening
frame, then gave up six goals in Game 2 to prompt head coach Joel Quenneville
to give his 26-year-old rookie the start. Darling got the win in Game 1 in
relief of Crawford.

Jonathan Toews had a goal and an assist, while Brent Seabrook, Andrew
Desjardins and Brandon Saad all scored for the Blackhawks, who hold a 2-1 lead
in this best-of-seven series.

Mattias Ekholm and Mike Ribeiro each posted a goal for the Predators, who had
goaltender Pekka Rinne allow all four goals on 30 shots.

Game 4 of this series will take place Tuesday in Chicago.