Chicago Blackhawks: The "Big Hoss" Is Still the Man

At the beginning of the year, Patrick Kane moved to center which was supposed to be a significant adjustment. Marian Hossa was put on his wing and the transition seemed easy.

A couple of weeks ago, Jonathan Toews was in an offensive rut. The solution? Put Marian Hossa on his wing.

Hossa had three assists against the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday night, and on two of those he made the play happen. On Toews' goal to go up 3-1, Hossa forced the issue, streaking down the ice to set up the tally. On Steve Montador's goal to cap the win, Hossa created space and made the dish for Montador's blast.  

One thing is clear, Hawks fans: Marian Hossa is still the full package.

For the first time in three seasons, Hossa had a full offseason. When the Hawks lost to the Vancouver Canucks last spring, it was the first time since 2007 that Hossa's season ended in April. Hossa was able to rest a bit before making sure he was in peak physical condition for the beginning of this season.

The results have spoken for themselves: so far this season in 18 games, he has eight goals and 13 assists. He is a complete player and as valuable in the defensive zone as he is the offensive zone. Nobody in the NHL can protect the puck with his body quite like the "Big Hoss."

Last season and during the 2009-2010 season, Hossa missed significant time. Last season, his banged up body limited him to 65 games. If Hossa had been healthy for the duration of the season, who knows how things would have turned out.

His impact this year has been immense, and yes, he is worthy of an All-Star selection.

Hossa is currently tied for the team lead in points with Patrick Kane, and leads all Hawks with a plus-14 rating. If Hossa can remain healthy, the Hawks will continue to roll. It may just be as simple as that.

In the summer of 2009, the Hawks signed Hossa to a mega deal. Some dared to call him overrated after some streaky offensive numbers without thinking about what he does in all zones. Now we are seeing the full impact of this player and what he is capable of.

In a young man's game, Hossa continues to produce at 32. As Ed Olczyk points out so often, Hossa is someone for all young hockey players to emulate.