Vancouver, BC (My Sportsbook) - Sami Salo scored with 73 seconds to play as the Vancouver Canucks coughed up a three-goal lead in the third period, but were able to take a 5-3 decision over the Chicago Blackhawks in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals at General Motors Place.

Chicago had trailed by three goals to start the third period, but tied the game with 5:29 left in the third on Dave Bolland's goal.

However, the Canucks were able to grab the lead with a late tally. A turnover in the Chicago end resulted in Vancouver skating the other way. From the left side, Mason Raymond faked a shot and slid it over to Steve Bernier, who let fly with a one-timer. Nikolai Khabibulin was able to make the save, but the rebound went right back to the slot and Salo was able to bury it.

The Blackhawks were able to pull Khabibulin for the extra attacker, but Ryan Johnson's empty-net goal sealed the win.

Ryan Kesler, Henrik Sedin and Pavol Demitra each had a goal for the third- seeded Canucks, who swept St. Louis in the opening round. Roberto Luongo made 28 saves in the win.

Patrick Kane scored twice while Bolland also lit the lamp for the fourth- seeded Blackhawks, who beat Calgary in six games in the first round. Khabibulin allowed four goals on 26 shots in the loss.

Vancouver will host Game 2 of the best-of-seven series on Saturday.