In a thrilling season opener, the Utah Hockey Club dominated the Chicago Blackhawks 5-2 on Tuesday night, never relinquishing their lead after a strong first period. Dylan Guenther and Clayton Keller scored crucial goals in the opening frame, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
Guenther went on to score twice more, including an empty-netter in the final minute, to seal the victory for Utah. Barrett Hayton added a second-period goal and an assist, while Lawson Crouse capped off the scoring with just 22 seconds remaining.
Despite a late surge by the Blackhawks, Teuvo Teravainen and Nick Foligno’s goals were not enough to overcome the deficit. Guenther’s initial goal, a blistering slap shot, marked a historic moment as the first goal in Utah’s franchise history.
The Blackhawks struggled to capitalize on their scoring opportunities, particularly in the first period, but managed to generate 11 shots on goal in the second. Utah’s power-play defense proved solid, with three successful penalty kills.
A pivotal moment came when Hayton expertly tipped the puck over Petr Mrazek’s shoulder in the second period, giving Utah a crucial cushion. Guenther’s empty-net goal later secured the win.
Notably, Keller has now accumulated eight career points in season-opening games, with four goals and four assists. He remains the only Utah player to have achieved a 30-goal season, a feat he accomplished in each of his final two seasons in Arizona.
The Blackhawks will continue their four-game road trip against the Winnipeg Jets on Friday, while Utah begins a four-game road swing against the New York Islanders on Thursday.
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