CHICAGO -- Chicago Blackhawks goaltender Corey Crawford was tested every which way over six games and 11 days during the first-round series against the Nashville Predators.

At the start, it was all about his ability being tested. He didn’t pass. The Predators lit him up for three goals in the first period in Game 1 and he was pulled. He allowed six more goals in Game 2, and he lost his starting spot.

From there, he was tested emotionally and psychologically. Could his confidence withstand being the backup? Could he be supportive of rookie Scott Darling, who replaced him? Be a good teammate to everyone else and not let his situation affect the locker room? Could he let go of his frustration and anger? He got through all of that through Games 3, 4 and 5.

Finally, after he went through off the ice for a week, he got the chance to be tested on the ice again in Game 6 on Saturday. This time, he passed with flying colors. He stopped all 13 shots he faced in 48:44 of relief and helped the Blackhawks to a 4-3, series-clinching victory.

“I’ve gone through a lot in my career,” Crawford said. “Just being levelheaded helps not to get too down. Just keep working hard. Pretty much wash away anything else that tries to creep in your mind.”

Crawford played as Quenneville hoped he would when the coach decided to give Crawford the net again midway through the first period on Saturday.

“I think he did everything he wanted to do,” Quenneville said. “He made those big saves on the penalty kill. Not having many shots, but he had a couple looks there when he first came in. I think he got comfortable as the game went on. That was a big test for him right there, and got everybody excited. It was a great response.”

Crawford’s teammates were impressed with how he handled everything.

“I think he’s a real strong goalie, mentally,” forward Marian Hossa. “Obviously, he wasn’t too happy with the situation. But when he was called to the net, he was ready and he was strong for us, so that was huge.”

Blackhawks forward Patrick Kane felt the same.

“I know Crow was probably looking for his chance to get back in there, took advantage of it, played great,” Kane said.

Crawford also continued to be supportive of Darling when the young goalie was pulled in the first period in Game 6. As Darling skated off the ice and Crawford onto it, Crawford stopped to give Darling a few words of encouragement and patted him on the head.

“They had some really good chances and some great shots,” Crawford said. “No fault to his by any means. He’s been playing great. Definitely should keep his head up. He knows that.”

Quenneville again wouldn’t name his starter for whenever the Blackhawks play next, but he left little doubt it would be Crawford.

“We'll let you know, but I think you know who's going to start next game,” Quenneville said.