Antoine Vermette has given the Chicago Blackhawks renewed life in this Western Conference Final against the Anaheim Ducks, scoring in the second overtime to even the series as it shifts back to California.
In a post-game interview with NBC hockey analyst Pierre McGuire immediately following his OT heroics, Vermette admitted it was “not the ideal situation,” but stressed the need for a “good attitude” after being a healthy scratch -- a curious decision from head coach Joel Quenneville to say the least -- in Game 3.
“They’re so competitive. They want to play in the worst way and they want more ice time, as well,” Quenneville told reporters after the win.
“You can understand where he was at. Very disappointed. He’s a great pro. Stayed with it. That line had a couple looks in overtime. I’m glad he finished it for us. That was a huge goal for us. Huge, goal, huge.”