Spencer Knight made an immediate impact in his debut with the Chicago Blackhawks, stopping 41 shots to lead his new team to a dominant 5-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings at the United Center. The Blackhawks acquired Knight and a conditional first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft from the Florida Panthers on Saturday, in exchange for defenseman Seth Jones and a fourth-round pick in the same draft.
Knight’s debut was nothing short of spectacular, as he turned away 41 of 42 shots, including several high-danger chances. “It was good,” Knight said postgame, according to NHL.com. “I’m glad I got to get the win with the guys. It was a team effort, team win. Everyone battled, blocked shots, big goals. That’s what it’s going to take.”
Reflecting on the transition to his new team, Knight added, “I said it, no matter how smoothly things are going, the first week or so is going to feel like chaos. That’s just the way it is. But I think I’ve learned to embrace that. I’ve been through a lot of difficult challenges in my life. It’s another step in the journey.I think I’m looking to bring what I witnessed and was part of in Florida, bring it here.”
Blackhawks’ offensive contributions
The Blackhawks (19-35-7), who have now won two straight games after a five-game losing streak, received contributions from across the lineup. Ryan Donato and Ilya Mikheyev each tallied a goal and an assist, while Teuvo Teravainen added two assists.
Spencer Knight #30 of the Chicago Blackhawks celebrates with teammates after defeating the Los Angeles Kings at the United Center on March 03, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Interim head coach Anders Sorensen praised Knight’s composure and performance. “Yeah, I mean he looked really good,” Sorensen said. “Calm is probably the word, right? He just looked so composed back there, so tight down low. He made even some great puck plays. So, yeah, big part of it, obviously.”
A dream debut night
The Kings (31-20-8), who have now lost four straight games (0-3-1), struggled to generate offense despite Anze Kopitar scoring their lone goal. Goaltender Darcy Kuemper allowed four goals on 18 shots before being replaced in the third period.
The Blackhawks took control early, with Alec Martinez opening the scoring in the first period. Kopitar tied the game, but Mikheyev restored Chicago’s lead early in the second period. Ethan Del Mastro extended the advantage to 3-1, and Andreas Athanasiou made it 4-1 in the third period. Donato sealed the victory with an empty-net goal.
Knight makes history
Knight joined Jaxson Stauber as the second goaltender since the 2019-20 season to win in his first game with the Blackhawks. He also became the fourth goaltender in franchise history to make more than 40 saves in his debut, joining legends like Ed Belfour, Jeff Glass, and Gilles Meloche.
Knight’s performance not only secured the win for the Blackhawks but also marked a significant milestone in his NHL career, further cementing his reputation as a goaltender with immense talent and potential.
see also
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