Blackhawks Settle for OT Point After Blowing Late Lead

Chicago's Connor Bedard scores 29th goal of season, but Predators rally to win in overtime

Mar. 22, 2026 at 11:03pm

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The Chicago Blackhawks were unable to hold onto a late lead, settling for a single point in an overtime loss to the Nashville Predators. Rookie sensation Connor Bedard scored his 29th goal of the season on a breakaway, while Nick Lardis also found the back of the net for Chicago. However, the Blackhawks couldn't close out the game in regulation, leading to an overtime defeat.

Why it matters

The Blackhawks' inability to protect a late lead is a concerning trend, as the team continues to struggle to put together a full 60-minute effort. While earning a point is better than nothing, Chicago had a chance to pick up two crucial points against a divisional rival in the Predators.

The details

The Blackhawks took a late 2-1 lead on Bedard's breakaway goal, but the Predators were able to tie the game in the final minutes of regulation. The game then went to overtime, where Nashville scored the game-winner to hand Chicago the overtime loss.

  • The game was played on March 22, 2026.
  • Bedard scored his 29th goal of the season in the game.

The players

Connor Bedard

A rookie sensation for the Chicago Blackhawks, Bedard scored his 29th goal of the season in the game.

Nick Lardis

A Blackhawks player who also scored a goal in the game.

Jeff Blashill

The head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks.

Nashville Predators

The Blackhawks' divisional rival who came back to win the game in overtime.

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What they’re saying

“We have to find a way to close these games out. Giving up a late lead is unacceptable.”

— Jeff Blashill, Head Coach

What’s next

The Blackhawks will look to bounce back in their next game against the St. Louis Blues on March 24, 2026.

The takeaway

Chicago's inability to protect late leads has been a recurring issue this season, and the team will need to find a way to close out games if they hope to make a push for the playoffs down the stretch.