Chicago, IL (Sports Network) - Ryan Smyth netted the overtime-winner as the Colorado Avalanche defeated the Chicago Blackhawks, 4-3, to close out the preseason for both teams.
Wojtek Wolski had a pair of goals and an assist while Brian Willsie also scored for Colorado, which opens its regular season schedule at home Thursday against Boston. Peter Budaj made 22 saves in the win while Joe Sakic collected three assists.
Martin Havlat scored with less than one second on the clock in the third period to force an extra session while Patrick Sharp and Kris Versteeg also lit the lamp for Chicago, which starts its regular season on the road Friday against the Rangers. Cristobal Huet took the loss with 21 saves.
Willsie's tally early in the third gave the Avalanche a 3-2 lead but a hooking call on Smyth gave the Blackhawks a power play with 26 seconds remaining, allowing Havlat to even things up. Patrick Kane was then whistled for hooking in overtime and Smyth made the ensuing power play count with his game-winner.
