The Chicago Blackhawks had two options entering their fifth straight overtime game against the Phoenix Coyotes: Wait around until Corey Crawford gave up some Snuggle Bear-soft goal to Mikkel Boedker, or end the game before it got to that point.
Jonathan Toews selected Option B.
A few things to love about this play, which gave the Blackhawks the 2-1 Game 5 win to extend their series with the Coyotes to Monday night's Game 6.
First off, Toews wins the offensive zone draw — he was a stellar 14-for-18 in the game, and 4-of-5 against Daymond Langkow — before scoring the game-winning goal at 2:44. Viktor Stalberg, who took four minor penalties in the game, kicked the puck to Toews off the half-boards to set up the goal. Bryan Bickell provided some net presence in front of Mike Smith (36 saves) as Toews unleashed his laser shot.
Now the action returns to Chicago, and the Coyotes have a right to be weary. Yes, they still have a 3-2 series lead. Yes, they've had plenty of good fortune in the Windy City. But after Toews broke through in Game 5, one can't help but wonder if and when Patrick Kane and Patrick Sharp do the same. Phoenix is still in the driver's seat, but the Blackhawks have new life.