Chicago Blackhawks: Patrick Kane Stepping Up in the Absence of Jonathan Toews

Chicago Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews is an integral part of his team's success. However, he is not the only member of the 'Hawks capable of spearheading Chicago to victory.

Teammate Patrick Kane has taken the reins from Toews and led the Blackhawks to two impressive wins over the weekend. With Toews out with an upper body injury, Kane has returned to center and committed himself to the position. As a result, he has helped fill the void that Toews' absence has left.

With a tough division showdown in St. Louis coming up Tuesday night, Kane has led the 'Hawks to two straight road wins over Ottawa and Detroit. Kane has three goals in his last four games.

The game Kane did not tally a point might have been one of his more dominant. Kane was all over the ice generating scoring chances against the Senators. Without an outstanding game from Ottawa goalie Robin Lehner, Kane could easily have notched three or four assists Friday night.

Kane backhanded in the game winner late in the second period of Chicago's 2-1 victory over the Red Wings. Over the last few games, the oft-critizited Kane has put aside a disappointing scoring output this season and been the playmaking center his team desperately needs right now.

Behind Kane, Marian Hossa and Patrick Sharp, the Blackhawks have won three straight. They have a chance to sweep this three-game road trip by beating the Central Division-leading Blues.

Kane has been both a wing and a center since the season began. He has had a sustained goal drought that will likely result in his lowest point totals of his five-year career. In the 22 games prior to Kane finding the net in Anaheim, he had just four goals.

When Kane is in the middle and on his game, he has shown himself to be a dominant force with the puck. We may not have seen that kind of dominance all season long, Kane has brought out his best with Toews out of the lineup.