Blackhawks win opener vs. Kings 3

Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville erupted into another playoff sideline tirade during Game 1 of the Western Conference finals at the United Center.

Jonathan Toews' goal that would have provided a 2-0 second period cushion was disallowed, followed by some cumbersome explanations by the NHL on the ruling.

None of it mattered in the end. Everyone could leave the United Center pleased.

Toews capped the 3-1 victory for the Blackhawks with a three-on-one goal as less than four minutes remained for the early series lead.

After Toews' first goal was erased from the scoreboard in the second period, Kings center Tyler Toffoli harnessed momentum by tying the game 1-1 in the second period.

Duncan Keith answered with a shot fired from the point that bounced into the net past Jonathan Quick off a deflection by a Kings defenseman's stick for the 2-1 lead.

The Blackhawks kept the pressure on the Kings through the first period and took a 1-0 lead into the break. Brandon Saad scored on a power play, redirecting a shot past Jonathan Quick, off a shot from Nick Leddy. Leddy and Marian Hossa were credited with assists.

The Hawks outshot the Kings 7-5 in the first period and took an early 1-0 lead off a goal by Brandon Saad. But the Kings outshot the Hawks 17-6 in the second period.

Game 2 takes place Wednesday night at the United Center.

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