Blackhawks lead Oilers 3-1 after one period

By Chris Kuc

EDMONTON, Alberta -- The Blackhawks didn't get a chance for a rematch against former goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin on Saturday night.

Khabibulin was a late scratch with a sore back as the Hawks took on the Oilers at Rexall Place. Maybe Khabibulin's back flared up when he realized he would be going against a red-hot Hawks team. He was replaced by Jeff Deslauriers.

The Hawks lead 3-1 after one period as they seek their sixth consecutive victory in the second game of their six-game road trip.

Jonathan Toews, Kris Versteeg and Patrick Kane have scored for the Hawks while Dustin Penner has a goal for Edmonton. Toews and Kane also have assists.

Hawks rookie winger Bryan Bickell was injured during the opening period after colliding with Penner and appeared to hit his head on the ice after the hit. Bickell was woozy and had to be helped off the ice and into the Hawks dressing room. He will not return.