Chicago Blackhawks Tie Franchise Record for Longest Road Winning Streak

With Tuesday's 5-3 victory over the Minnesota Wild, the Chicago Blackhawks tied a franchise record with its seventh consecutive road victory, per the Elias Sports Bureau (via the Blackhawks' official Twitter account).

The biggest contributor on the night was the team's captain, Jonathan Toews. Not only did he record a hat trick in the contest, he also assisted on each of Chicago's other two goals for a total of five points. The last Blackhawks player to do the same was Jeff Hamilton on the road against the Phoenix Coyotes on March 10, 2007, per Elias (via ESPN.com). 

Toews has now notched 20 points over the team's last 12 games. That output matches his best over any 12-game span in his career.

Chicago remains five points back of the Wild for the lead in the Central Division. However, two victories over the Wild in the past two weeks and seven wins in its last eight games have drawn the club closer. The two top teams in the Central square off once more in Chicago before the regular season ends.

The Blackhawks have won the Stanley Cup in alternating seasons the last four years and could continue that trend by hoisting it again this year. The team's play in February has provided fans with some encouragement in that regard.

Chicago now begins a four-game homestand before receiving its opportunity to break the franchise record for consecutive road wins March 4 against the Nashville Predators.