On December 15, 2024, the NHL featured several notable games and player performances.
| Date | Game | Final Score |
|---|
| Dec 15, 2024 | New York Islanders @ Chicago Blackhawks | NYI 3 – 5 CHI |
| Dec 15, 2024 | Buffalo Sabres @ Toronto Maple Leafs | BUF 3 – 5 TOR |
| Dec 15, 2024 | Columbus Blue Jackets @ Carolina Hurricanes | CBJ 1 – 4 CAR |
| Dec 15, 2024 | New York Rangers @ St. Louis Blues | NYR 2 – 3 STL |
| Dec 15, 2024 | Vegas Golden Knights @ Minnesota Wild | VGK 3 – 2 MIN |
Key NHL Matchups and Player Performances on December 15, 2024
In Chicago, the Blackhawks secured a 5-3 victory over the New York Islanders. Connor Bedard scored the game-winning goal in the final minute, highlighting his impactful rookie season. The Islanders welcomed back Mat Barzal and Adam Pelech from injuries; Barzal logged 20:45 of ice time, while Pelech played 19:47. Despite their returns, the Islanders couldn’t overcome the Blackhawks’ offense.
In Toronto, John Tavares led the Maple Leafs to a 5-3 win against the Buffalo Sabres with his 14th career hat trick. The Maple Leafs overcame a 3-2 deficit, with additional goals from Max Domi and Nicholas Robertson. Goaltender Dennis Hildeby made 24 saves. For Buffalo, Jack Quinn scored twice, and Alex Tuch added a goal, but the Sabres extended their winless streak to ten games.
The Carolina Hurricanes, with goaltender Dustin Tokarski making his first NHL appearance since January 2023, defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-1. Tokarski recorded 27 saves, earning his first win in nearly two years. Jordan Martinook contributed a goal and an assist, while Sebastian Aho, William Carrier, and Jesperi Kotkaniemi also scored for Carolina. Dmitri Voronkov netted the lone goal for Columbus, who suffered their fourth consecutive loss.
In St. Louis, the Blues edged the New York Rangers 3-2. Robert Thomas played a pivotal role, contributing to the Blues’ offense and helping secure the victory. The Rangers fought hard but couldn’t clinch the win on the road.
The Vegas Golden Knights achieved a 3-2 win over the Minnesota Wild. Victor Olofsson scored two goals, including the game-winner, showcasing his scoring prowess. The Wild’s efforts to rally were insufficient against the defending Stanley Cup champions.
In league disciplinary news, Detroit Red Wings forward Jonatan Berggren was fined $2,148.44 for cross-checking Toronto Maple Leafs forward Connor Dewar during a game on December 14. The incident occurred in the second period of Detroit’s 4-2 win, following a slight shoulder check from Dewar, to which Berggren retaliated by striking him in the head. Berggren received a minor penalty for the infraction.
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