OTTAWA – The Chicago Blackhawks closed out their season with a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory against the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday night, April 15, 2025. Frank Nazar scored the game-winning goal just 48 seconds into the extra frame, capping off a season filled with ups and downs for the Blackhawks.
Chicago, finishing the season with a record of 25-46-11, missed the playoffs for the fifth consecutive year. Despite the disappointing season, the team showcased moments of brilliance, particularly from their young star Connor Bedard, who had a standout performance with two goals and an assist.
The game started off strong for the Blackhawks as Bedard kicked things off with his 22nd goal of the season, matching his total from his Calder Trophy-winning season in 2023-24. Bedard scored on Chicago's first shot of the game at just 1:45 into the opening period. Following Bedard's goal, Joe Veleno doubled the lead for the Blackhawks at the 6:13 mark, putting them ahead 2-0.
However, the Senators quickly responded. Nick Cousins put Ottawa on the board at 6:56, cutting the deficit to 2-1. The first period ended with the Blackhawks holding a slim lead, but the tide began to shift as the Senators dominated the shot count.
As the second period unfolded, Ottawa continued to apply pressure. Thomas Chabot tied the game at 2 just 1:19 into the frame with a power-play goal. It seemed the Senators were poised to take control, but Bedard had other plans. He scored his second goal of the night shortly after, regaining the lead for Chicago and marking his 23rd goal of the season.
Drake Batherson brought the Senators back into the game once again, tying it at 3-3 with another power-play goal later in the second period. By the end of the second, the shot count was heavily in favor of Ottawa, who outshot the Blackhawks 31-9, showcasing their dominance on the ice.
The third period saw a more balanced contest with both teams tied in shots at six apiece. Despite several chances, neither team could find the back of the net, forcing the game into overtime.
In the extra frame, it was Frank Nazar who emerged as the hero. After a brilliant setup from Bedard, Nazar fired a shot past Senators goaltender Anton Forsberg, sealing the victory for Chicago. This marked Nazar's third goal in as many games, and he finished the season on a high note, having accumulated five points in his last three games.
Spencer Knight, the Blackhawks' goaltender, played a pivotal role in the victory, making 34 saves on 37 shots, resulting in a save percentage of .919. Knight's composure under pressure was crucial, especially considering the heavy workload he faced throughout the game.
The Senators, on the other hand, were without several key players as they rested Claude Giroux, Nick Jensen, and Jake Sanderson in preparation for the playoffs. Brady Tkachuk also missed his eighth consecutive game due to an upper-body injury, which undoubtedly impacted Ottawa's performance.
Despite missing four starters, Ottawa's power play was effective, going 2-for-3 on the night. Tim Stützle, who had a standout game against the Philadelphia Flyers just days prior, added another assist, setting a career-high with 53 assists this season.
As the season concludes, the Blackhawks are now looking to the future. With the second-best odds of winning the NHL draft lottery and ample cap space, the organization is poised to make significant changes in the offseason. The upcoming centennial season promises to bring excitement and hope for a more competitive roster.
In the aftermath of the game, Blackhawks fans can take solace in the performances of their young players, particularly Bedard and Nazar, who have shown that the future may be bright for the franchise. As they prepare for the offseason, Chicago will look to build on this momentum and return stronger next season.
Next up for the Senators is a matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday, as they gear up for the playoffs, aiming to make a deep run.
