Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews, Can They Be Better Next Year?

Columnist Written on July 08, 2008

Much of last season's success can be attributed to the contributions of Calder Trophy Finalist Jonathan Toews and Calder Trophy winner Patrick Kane. But, can these two kids carry this team again this coming season?

I would have to say—of course.

Coming into last season there was much spectulation that Patrick Kane was too under-sized, and that after his 10 game try-out he would be shipped back to London for another season.

Rather Kane wowed Blackhawks fans and eventually scored the Calder Trophy, the NHL's version of the Rookie of the Year.

Kane didn't miss a game all season and racked up 21 goals and 51 assists (72 points). He was the Hawks' go-to guy all season and he stepped up to the challenge whenever he was called upon.

This coming season, Kane will be stronger and have a full NHL season under his belt, which could lead to a much better season for him.

As for Jonathan Toews, he had quite a season, winning the hearts of many Blackhawks fans with his gritty two-way play and his beautiful scoring touch. Toews also had one of the most memorable goals of last season when he scored against the Avalanche, weaving through defense-men and making an awesome deke against Theodore for the goal.

Jonathan's problem last year was the injury bug—he broke his finger in the preseason and missed the first few games. Then in January, Toews went down with a knee injury and missed 16 games, which may have proved to be the reason the Hawks missed the playoffs.

Even with the injury problems that Toews had he still had quite the rookie season, scoring 24 goals and 30 assists (54 points) in 64 games.

Jonathan is also poised to become the Blackhawks' captain, which they did not have last year after choosing to go with three A's last season.

If Toews can stay healthy an entire season, then he could be one of the Blackhawks' top scorers next year. He has a good touch and will fight the battles in the corners, which will translate into goals for him next year.

Both guys will be stronger physically and mentally this coming season, having been through the grind of a full NHL season. The Blackhawks will reap the benefits of this experience and hopefully be sitting pretty in the playoffs.

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written on July 08, 2008 Preview/Prediction

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