As part of their mid-2000s rebuild, the Chicago Blackhawks selected a scrawny, fresh-faced Buffaloan with the No. 1 overall pick in 2007.
Led in part by Patrick Kane’s dynamic offensive game, the Blackhawks have evolved into the NHL’s model franchise. As such, they have enjoyed the spoils. They made their third trip to the White House as defending Stanley Cup champions on Feb. 18. Three days later, they participated in their fourth outdoor game—and third in as many years—in Minnesota.
While captain Jonathan Toews is the Blackhawks’ unquestioned leader, Kane has been the NHL’s most electrifying player for some time now. But despite the shorter offseason that comes with hoisting the Stanley Cup, he is having his best pro season to date.
“I just see him maturing strength-wise,” said Dale Tallon, who drafted Kane as Blackhawks general manager but now is the GM of the Florida Panthers. “He looks like he’s more committed than ever before. He has more swagger, strength and belief. Every shift of every game h ...
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Article written by Pat Pickens