Sterling's OT goal gives Wolves win

Left wing Brett Sterling registered the fourth hat trick of his professional career, including the game-winner with 28.4 seconds remaining in overtime, as the Chicago Wolves earned a 4-3 victory over the Peoria Rivermen on Thursday night at the Allstate Arena.

After Peoria (8-8-0-2) tied the game with 19.1 seconds remaining in regulation, Sterling used an odd-man rush in the final minute of OT for his 11th goal and 18th point in 12 games with the Wolves since being assigned by the Atlanta Thrashers on Nov. 5.

The Los Angeles native has 6 goals and 5 assists over the last four games.

"It felt good because we let them back in and I was partly responsible for that," he said. "The overtime goal came off such a great pass by Joey (Crabb). I've been fortunate to play with wonderful linemates while I've been here."

The Wolves (17-2-1-0) lead the American Hockey League with a league-high 35 points, the most in franchise history through 20 games. They have won four games this season after trailing their opponent entering the third period.

Goalie Kari Lehtonen (2-0-0), sent to Chicago for conditioning by the Thrashers on Monday, picked up his second consecutive win with the club. He had 30 saves.

The Wolves play their fourth straight at home when they battle the Iowa Stars at 7 p.m. Saturday.