SALT LAKE CITY–The Blackhawks dropped their season opener 5-2 to Utah Hockey Club at the Delta Center on Tuesday night, as Utah played its first game in NHL history.

This game was not only historic for Utah, but also marked a milestone for rookie defenseman Chicago Nolan Allan made his NHL debut, originally drafted by the Blackhawks in the first round (32nd overall) in the 2021 NHL Draft.

Blackhawks got off to a slow start as Utah opened the scoring five minutes later, with Dylan Guenther scoring the first goal in Utah Hockey Club history, followed by another goal less than ten minutes later. Chicago couldn’t answer and was outshot in the opening frame.

The Blackhawks came out strong in the second period, generating six shots in the first five minutes. Despite the pressure, Utah extended its lead to 3-0 midway through the period. Teuvo Teravainen got Chicago on the board with a backhand goal off a feed from Connor Bedardand the Blackhawks defeated Utah 11-7 in the second.

Chicago entered the third period trailing by several goals, but played a competitive final frame. Five minutes in, Nick Foligno scored his first goal as captain on a point shot from the blue line Alex Vlasiccutting Utah’s lead to 3-2. Chicago continued to push for the equalizer, creating several quality chances and maintaining the pressure throughout the period. However, Utah closed out the game with two goals in the final minute, putting the game out of reach for the Blackhawks. The final shots on goal were slightly in favor of Chicago, 27-26.