It wasn’t very long ago that the Chicago Blackhawks were the class of the NHL, tromping their way to three Stanley Cups in the span of five years and establishing themselves as a perennial contender. Over the past decade, there are a few names that stand out as the ‘Hawks corps, but those names are starting to peter off one by one.
Corey Crawford was a staple in their crease (when he wasn’t injured, that is), but the netminder shipped off to New Jersey in the offseason, and subsequently retired before even playing a game. This week also saw the end of Brent Seabrook’s career, who retired after a lengthy tenure manning the ‘Hawks blueline. His defensive partner, Duncan Keith, is a shadow of the Conn Smythe Trophy recipient from nearly a decade ago.
Perhaps the two most prominent members of the ‘Hawks were Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. The skilled scorer, and the ultimate captain.
Patrick Kane is getting ready to celebrate his 1,000th NHL game tonight, all of which came with Chicago, and while speaking to the media ahead of the game he discussed the importance of Toews to his career. Toews is taking some time off to sort through his own personal issues and hasn’t been with the team all season, but Kane claims the two have kept in close contact.
While Kane would likely have loved to see Jonathan Toews lining up to take his 1,000th opening puck drop, it’s nice to know the two have stayed connected off the ice. We’re not sure if or when we’ll see Toews again, but if the two do end up playing together again, it’s possible they’re there together for Toews’ 1,000th game. He currently sits at 943.
(H/T Ben Pope)
