Antti Niemi makes 31 saves to lead Sharks to 2-0 victory over Blackhawks

San Jose Sharks goalie Antti Niemi, right, stops a shot by Chicago Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews, left, during the second period of their NHL hockey game Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015, in San Jose, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg) (The Associated Press)

San Jose Sharks right wing Melker Karlsson (68) celebrates with teammate Joe Pavelski (8) after scoring a goal against Chicago Blackhawks goalie Antti Raanta (31) during the first period of their NHL hockey game Saturday, Jan. 31, 2015, in San Jose, Calif. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg) (The Associated Press)

Antti Niemi made 31 saves in his 31st career shutout and the San Jose Sharks won their third straight game by beating the Chicago Blackhawks 2-0 on Saturday night.

Melker Karlsson scored early and Joe Thornton added an empty-net goal for the Sharks, who got their first regulation win over the Blackhawks since Feb. 10, 2012. Niemi did the rest against his former team as San Jose followed up wins over defending Stanley Cup champion Los Angeles and NHL points leader Anaheim with one against perennial cup contender Chicago.

Antti Raanta made 19 saves for the Blackhawks, who were shut out for the fourth time this season. Chicago lost two of three on the post-All-Star break California swing, with the win coming Friday night in Anaheim.