2013 First Round Game 6 vs St Louis Blues
A heart-stopping overtime thriller that saw Chicago's dynasty stumble against St. Louis.
The 2013 First Round Game 6 between the Chicago Blackhawks and the St. Louis Blues stands as one of the most dramatic cliffhangers in NHL playoff history. Played at the United Center on May 5, 2013, this match saw the defending Stanley Cup champions face elimination against their Central Division rivals. The game is defined by a stunning fourth-period collapse where Chicago surrendered three goals to fall behind 4-1, only to mount an improbable comeback.
- Winner
- St. Louis Blues
- Final Score
- 5-3 (OT)
- Location
- United Center, Chicago
- Series Result
- Blues advance to Western Conference Semifinals
- Key Moment
- Brian Elliott's overtime save on Jonathan Toews
- Playoff Year
- 2013
Lore & Background
The memory of this match is etched in the minds of fans for its emotional volatility. After taking an early lead and extending it, Chicago appeared on the brink of elimination until a late surge brought them back into contention. The overtime finish, where Jonathan Toews was denied by Elliott, sealed the fate of the defending champions' season, sending shockwaves through the franchise's fanbase.
In Their Own Story
The ice at the United Center felt different that night; it wasn't just cold, it was heavy with expectation. As the fourth period ticked away and the score sat at 4-1 against Chicago, a collective groan rose from the stands. Then, Patrick Kane scored, silencing the doubt for a moment, followed by a late goal from Toews that forced overtime. The arena held its breath as Toews skated in on a breakaway, his stick raising high, only to be met with the glove of Brian Elliott. The silence that followed was deafening.
Reader's Guide
The occasion was a do-or-die scenario for the defending Stanley Cup champions, who trailed the series 3-2 heading into Game 6 at home. St. Louis took control early, building a three-goal lead by the third period and extending it to four in the fourth, seemingly putting Chicago out of its misery. However, the Blackhawks refused to fold. Patrick Kane scored with just over two minutes remaining in regulation to spark a rally, and Jonathan Toews tied the game late in the period, forcing overtime. The atmosphere was electric, with every fan believing the momentum had finally shifted back to the home team. The match is remembered for its dramatic swing from near-certain elimination to a heartbreakingly close overtime loss. Brian Elliott made a crucial save on Jonathan Toews' breakaway attempt in overtime, preserving St. Louis's lead and ending Chicago's season. It remains a defining moment of resilience and tragedy in the franchise's recent history.
Did You Know?
- This game ended the Blackhawks' quest for three consecutive Stanley Cups after they had won in 2010 and 2013.
- Brian Elliott recorded 45 saves in overtime, including the critical stop on Jonathan Toews that secured the win for St. Louis.
- The Blues became the first team to eliminate a defending Stanley Cup champion in Game 6 of the First Round since 1998.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2013 First Round Game 6 between the Blackhawks and Blues?
The St. Louis Blues defeated the Chicago Blackhawks in overtime with a final score of 5-3 to win the game.
Where was this dramatic playoff matchup played?
This intense contest took place at the United Center in Chicago, where the defending Stanley Cup champions faced elimination.
What is the most famous moment from this game?
The match is defined by goaltender Brian Elliott's crucial overtime save on Jonathan Toews that secured the victory for St. Louis.
How did the Blackhawks' performance change during the fourth period?
Chicago surrendered three goals in a stunning collapse to fall behind 4-1 before mounting an improbable two-goal comeback attempt.
Why is this game considered historically significant?
This match marked the end of Chicago's title defense as the Blues advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals after eliminating the defending champions.
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