Video: Blackhawks' Patrick Kane Records 1000th Career Point with Assist vs. Jets
Jan 19, 2020
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 19: Patrick Kane #88 of the Chicago Blackhawks ends up with half of a stick after breaking it firing a hard shot against the Winnipeg Jets at the United Center on January 19, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Patrick Kane further cemented himself in Chicago Blackhawks history Sunday night.
The 31-year-old winger recorded his 1,000th career point by assisting Brandon Saad's goal at the 14:14 mark in the third period to extend Chicago's lead over the Winnipeg Jets to 4-1:
According to NHL Public Relations, Kane became the 90th player in league history to notch 1,000 career regular-season points, as well as the youngest U.S.-born player to do so.
Kane's played his whole NHL career for the Blackhawks. He debuted in 2007 and has since won three Stanley Cups, the 2012-13 Conn Smythe Trophy and earned four All-Star nods.
This season, Kane has 24 goals and 37 assists across 49 games for the 24-20-6 Blackhawks.
Chicago defeated Winnipeg 5-2 to notch their fifth successive win.
Blackhawks' Marc Crawford Placed on Leave After Allegations He Kicked Sean Avery
Dec 2, 2019
VANCOUVER, CANADA - OCTOBER 18: Head Coach Marc Crawford of the Vancouver Canucks speaks from the bench during their NHL game against the Chicago Blackhawks at General Motors Place on October 18, 2005 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. The Canucks defeated the Blackhawks 6-2. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/Getty Images)
The announcement said the Blackhawks will conduct a "thorough review" of the situation before Crawford is potentially allowed to return to the team.
This comes after Avery told Larry Brooks of the New York Post that the assistant kicked him when both were with the Kings during the 2006-07 season.
"He kicked me after a too-many-men-on-the-ice call I took," Avery said of Crawford, who was the Kings' head coach at the time. "He didn't have me serve it, we got scored on, and he let me have it. You know how I stand at the end of the bench? He came down and gave me an ass kick that left a mark."
The Blackhawks appear to be using some caution here after another coaching controversy recently dominated headlines in the NHL.
Chase Kell of Yahoo Sports noted Bill Peters resigned as head coach of the Calgary Flames following an internal investigation into allegations of racism and physical abuse.
Former NHL player Akim Aliu said on Twitter that Peters "dropped the N bomb several times" because he was upset with the player's music choices when they were with the AHL's Rockford IceHogs. What's more, former Carolina Hurricanes player Michal Jordan said Peters was physically abusive when they were with the Metropolitan Division team.
Blackhawks Mascot Gets into Fight with Fan After OT Loss vs. Jets
Dec 15, 2018
CHICAGO, IL - MAY 23: Chicago Blackhawks mascot 'Tommy Hawk' celebrates after defeating the Anaheim Ducks 5-4 in double overtime in Game Four of the Western Conference Finals during the 2015 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at the United Center on May 23, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
The Chicago Blackhawks' mascot, Tommy Hawk, was involved in a physical altercation with a fan at the United Center during Friday night's game against the Winnipeg Jets.
According to Madeline Kenney of the Chicago Sun-Times, authorities say the fight broke out after Tommy Hawk was attacked by a fan. The Chicago Sun-Times shared video footage from the incident that a fan tweeted out:
As of Saturday, the Blackhawks were investigating the matter.
"We are gathering the facts and will have no further comment at this time, pending our investigation," a Chicago spokesperson told the Chicago Sun-Times.
Chicago is currently on a three-game homestand, with games still at the United Center on Sunday and Tuesday.
It's just the latest blemish in what has been a rough start to the season for Chicago, as Friday night was its 11th loss in its last 13 games. The Blackhawks (10-18-6, 26 points) currently sit in last place in the Central Division.
Nick Schmaltz Traded to Coyotes; Blackhawks Land Dylan Strome, Brendan Perlini
Nov 25, 2018
CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 23: Nick Schmaltz #8 of the Chicago Blackhawks looks to pass against the Anaheim Ducks at the United Center on October 23, 2018 in Chicago, Illinois. The Blackhawks defeated the Ducks 3-1. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
Schmaltz has appeared in 23 games this season, scoring two goals and assisting on nine more. Both Strome (three goals, three assists) and Perlini (two goals, four assists) have accounted for six points this year.
The Athletic's Mark Lazerus noted how the perception around Schmaltz's role in the Blackhawks' future has drastically changed in the last few years.
Not too long ago, Nick Schmaltz was the anointed No. 1 center of the future for the Blackhawks, who were squirreling away cap space in order to give him a big contract extension. Now he's a Coyote, along with Hjalmarsson, Hinostroza, Panik, Raanta, Oesterle, Hossa and Bolland.
The 22-year-old is a free agent at the end of the 2018-19 season. The Athletic's Scott Powers brought up the subject of Schmaltz's potential extension with Blackhawks general manager Stan Bowman. Bowman didn't identify the matter as a top priority at the moment:
"But as far as his contract goes, I'm not that worried about that whether it's going to be a shorter term or a longer term. We'll figure that out as time comes. But I think the most important thing is for Nick to get his confidence. I've seen signs of it lately where he's had the puck more, he's making some plays. Like to see him shoot the puck and he's heard that a million times. That's a work in progress. His contract isn't like a top-of-mind issue right now. We're not up against the cap, so it's not really like a problem point."
Although Schmaltz is struggling this season, he's a year removed from scoring 21 goals, third-highest on the team. Because of that, dealing him now—even with contract negotiations looming in the offseason—is a risky move for Chicago.
Strome could ultimately vindicate Bowman for this gamble, though.
The 21-year-old was the third overall pick in the 2015 draft behind Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel. The fact that McDavid and Eichel already have All-Star appearances on their resumes had added to the disappointment of Strome's start to his NHL career.
In October, ESPN.com's Chris Peters compared Strome favorably to 12-year veteran Bobby Ryan. Ryan was the guy picked after Sidney Crosby, which didn't make things easy. Then he had a forgettable rookie season with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007-08 before becoming a consistent offensive contributor.
Strome still has plenty of time to put it all together, and by going to Chicago, he reunites with Alex DeBrincat. The two spent three seasons together with the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League.
Perlini is much like Strome in that he has failed to reach the expectations the Coyotes set for him when they selected him 12th overall in 2014.
But he had 21 points in 57 games as a rookie and 30 points in 74 games last season. It's not hard to see why the Blackhawks thought Perlini was worth acquiring.
Chicago Blackhawks Unveil 'Back in Black' Winter Classic Jerseys
Nov 8, 2018
Chicago Blackhawks' Patrick Kane reaches for the puck during the second period of the NHL Winter Classic hockey game against the St. Louis Blues at Busch Stadium, Monday, Jan. 2, 2017, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Billy Hurst)
One of the NHL's Original Six is going with one of its original looks.
On Thursday, the Chicago Blackhawks unveiled the "Back in Black" jerseys they will wear Jan. 1 when they take on the Boston Bruins at Notre Dame Stadium for the Winter Classic:
According to James Neveau of NBC Chicago, the black-and-white shirts pay homage to the Blackhawks' first home jersey, which they wore in 1926.
Chicago will have a different look on the ice and on the bench considering the team announced the firing of three-time Stanley Cup-winning head coach Joel Quenneville on Tuesday. Jeremy Colliton assumed the head coaching position.
Blackhawks Fire Joel Quenneville, Name Jeremy Colliton New Head Coach
Nov 6, 2018
Chicago Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville stands in the bench in the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Washington Capitals, Thursday, Oct. 15, 2015, in Washington. The Capitals won 4-1. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Chicago also parted ways with assistant coaches Kevin Dineen and Ulf Samuelsson. The team added Barry Smith as an assistant under Colliton.
Quenneville spent 10 full seasons as Chicago's head coach, but the Blackhawks are off to a 6-6-3 start in 2018-19. They are two points out of a top-eight playoff spot in the Western Conference and in the midst of a five-game losing streak.
Blackhawks general manager Stan Bowman issued a statement on the heels of Quenneville's dismissal:
"This is certainly a very difficult decision. But I believe it is in the best interests of the Blackhawks organization. We need to maximize each and every opportunity with our playoff goals in mind and create continued growth and development throughout our roster at the same time.
"After much deliberation the last several days, with great respect to what Joel has meant to the Blackhawks, we knew we had to make a change. Along with our appreciation for everything Joel has accomplished for our franchise, we also thank Kevin and Ulf for their many contributions and wish them success in the future."
Chairman Rocky Wirtz also commented on Quenneville's departure:
"The Chicago Blackhawks front office has made a decision to release Joel Quenneville from his head coaching duties, doing so with my full support. As Chicago Blackhawks fans have seen over the last decade, this organization no longer shies away from making tough decisions or ones based on emotion. Those days are long behind us. Of course, Joel's was difficult, as it should have been. During his tenure as head coach to the Chicago Blackhawks, Joel brought the city of Chicago and our fans three Stanley Cups and an incredible era of hockey.
"When Joel was originally hired into our 2008 season, we had great hope for his potential to take the team to new levels. He went beyond what anyone expected. As difficult as that decision in 2008 was, this one was tougher. But as we look to a future history not yet defined, we believe the change we made today, will provide the Chicago Blackhawks a critical element in achieving our goals of Championships in the future, including this season.
"I wish Joel and his family well and thank him for his incredible leadership and results. Nothing will ever take away the success he brought our franchise, our fans and my family. Joel will forever be etched into the most memorable era in Chicago Blackhawk hockey. And for that, we will always be connected and always eternally grateful."
During his tenure in Chicago, the 60-year-old Quenneville went 452-249-96 for a .627 winning percentage.
He led the Hawks to nine playoff appearances in his 10 full campaigns with the team, including Stanley Cup wins in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
The Blackhawks fell short of the playoffs last season, as they went just 33-39-10 and finished with 76 points, their lowest total since 2006-07.
Prior to joining the Blackhawks in 2008, Quenneville was the head coach of the St. Louis Blues from 1996-97 through 2003-04. He then had a three-year stint as head coach of the Colorado Avalanche.
During his 22-year career as an NHL head coach, Quenneville is 890-532-77-137. His 890 wins rank second in NHL history behind only Scotty Bowman, who has 1,244.
Quenneville has missed the playoffs just three times as a head coach, and his three Stanley Cups are tied for the ninth-most in NHL history.
While the Blackhawks have fallen off over the past two seasons, many who cover the team questioned the decision to part ways with Quenneville.
Mark Lazerus and Chris Kuc of The Athletic were among them:
Clearly, the Blackhawks have been just looking for a reason to fire Joel Quenneville. What, if Duncan Keith doesn't get ejected Saturday night and Corey Crawford staves off the Flames barrage, he's still employed today? What madness this is.
The 33-year-old Colliton is the youngest head coach in the NHL after spending parts of two seasons as head coach of the AHL's Rockford IceHogs. The Illinois-based team is Chicago's top minor league affiliate.
Colliton appeared in 57 NHL games over five seasons with the New York Islanders, registering three goals and three assists.
Although he lacks experience, Colliton will have no shortage of talent at his disposal in Chicago, as Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook and goalie Corey Crawford all have multiple Stanley Cup rings.
As for Quenneville, TSN'sDarren Dregernoted that he may be a top candidate to take over as head coach of the Los Angeles Kings when they assess their coaching situation at the end of the season after firing John Stevens on Sunday.
Corey Crawford to Start for Blackhawks After 10 Months Off with Concussion
Oct 17, 2018
Chicago Blackhawks' Corey Crawford warms up before an NHL hockey game against the Dallas Stars Thursday, Nov. 30, 2017, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Jim Young)
Chicago Blackhawks goalie Corey Crawford is expected to make his official return to the ice for Thursday night's game against the Arizona Coyotes after being held out of action for the past 10 months because of lingering concussion symptoms.
Crawford has not appeared in anNHLgame since Dec. 23, 2017.
"We'll see how he feels in the morning, but we expect him to play tomorrow," Chicago coach Joel Quenneville said on Wednesday, per the team's official Twitter account.
The Blackhawks will wait until game day to make a decision, but as of Wednesday, the veteran was ready for action.
"It feels good to be back to myself," Crawford said, according to The Athletic'sMark Lazerus. "I'm feeling good, feeling clear. I'm sure I'll be a little anxious getting into it, some nerves. I'm definitely excited, I'll tell you that."
Jitters aren't the only thing Crawford may have to overcome in his first game back. He may have to shake off some rust as well after being out for such a long period. However, when he's healthy and on top of his game, there have been few better than him over the years.
Crawford has 230 career wins, including 23 shutouts, and has helped Chicago hoist the Stanley Cup on a pair of occasions. Prior to last season, he had made at least 55 appearances in six of his seven full seasons with the team, providing stability in net.
Before the injury last season, he went 16-9-2 (including two shutouts) with a .929 save percentage and a 2.27 goals-against average in 28 games. Without Crawford, the Blackhawks struggled to a 33-39-10 record and missed out on the postseason for the first time since 2007-08.
With Crawford sidelined to start the season, offseason acquisition Cam Ward has held down the fort in the crease for Chicago. The former All-Star has guided the Blackhawks to a 3-0-2 start, although he has allowed at least three goals in every game this season.
Blackhawks All-Time Points Leader, Stanley Cup Winner Stan Mikita Dies at Age 78
Aug 7, 2018
CHICAGO, IL - JANUARY 09: Former player Stan Mikita of the Chicago Blackhawks is introduced to the crowd during a Heritage Night to honor the 1961 Stanley Cup Championship team before a game against the New York Islanders at the United Center on January 9, 2011 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
"There are no words to describe our sadness over Stan's passing," Blackhawks chairman Rocky Wirtz said in a statement. "He meant so much to the Chicago Blackhawks, to the game of hockey, and to all of Chicago. He left an imprint that will forever be etched in the hearts of fans - past, present and future. Stan made everyone he touched a better person. My wife Marilyn and I, joined by the entire Wirtz family, extend our prayers and thoughts to Jill and the Mikita family. 'Stosh' will be deeply missed, but never, ever forgotten."
Mikita is the Blackhawks' all-time leader in points with 1,467. He's widely viewed as one of—if not the—best center of the 1960s, winning the Hart Memorial Trophy in 1967 and 1968.
The Blackhawks also won the 1961 Stanley Cup with Mikita playing a pivotal role. They lost in the Stanley Cup Final four additional times during Mikita's career.
The team retired Mikita's No. 21 in 1980, and he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1983.
After retiring, Mikita became a golf pro, an author and was an ambassador for the Blackhawks franchise.
In 2015, the family announced Mikita had been diagnosed with dementia and had no recollection of his hockey career. His wife, Jill, cared for him until his death.
Marian Hossa Retires from NHL After 19 Seasons
May 19, 2018
OTTAWA, ON - MARCH 16: Playing in his 1300th career NHL game, Marian Hossa #81of the Chicago Blackhawks looks on against the Ottawa Senators at Canadian Tire Centre on March 16, 2017 in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Jana Chytilova/Freestyle Photography/Getty Images) *** Local Caption ***
Three-time Stanley Cup winner Marian Hossa is retiring from the NHL after 19 seasons.
Hossa, 39, told Slovak newspaper Novycas (via NHL.com)he won't return to the ice as he continues to deal with a progressive skin disorder that forced him to miss the 2017-18 season.
"I'm done playing hockey," Hossa said. "I have a contract with Chicago for the next three years, but I have to watch my health, and my body says the comeback is not possible."
Hossa added that while he received medication to treat the disorder, the side effects prevented him from continuing his playing career.
"Before the season, the NHL sent me to a clinic in Minneapolis to see a specialist who confirmed that it's impossible to play hockey when using those [anti-allergic] medicaments," he said. "I have to be aware of what might happen and I don't want to get back to the state I had been in during the previous seasons."
Selected 12th overall in the 1997 NHL draft, Hossa spent the first seven years of his career with the Ottawa Senators prior to a series of brief stays with the Atlanta Thrashers, Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings.
Hossa then signed with the Chicago Blackhawks before the 2009-10 season, and that fruitful partnership lasted eight years. During that run, Hossa helped lead the Blackhawks to Stanley Cup titles in 2010, 2013 and 2015.
During 1,309 career games, Hossa tallied 1,134 points, including 525 goals and 609 assists. According toHockey Reference, Hossa and Jarome Iginla are the only players who racked up at least 1,100 points and 500 goals between 1997 and 2017.
Blackhawks Emergency Goalie Scott Foster's NHL Debut Sparks Twitter Reaction
Mar 29, 2018
Chicago Blackhawks right wing Patrick Kane (88) celebrates with teammates after scoring against the Winnipeg Jets during the first period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, March 29, 2018, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)
Scott Foster had never played a professional hockey game and hadn't appeared in any competitive contest since 2005, but he came up big for the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday.
Foster, whose day job is as an accountant, per ESPN, replaced the injured Collin Delia for his NHL debut against the Winnipeg Jets, as NHL on NBC showed:
The @NHLBlackhawks' emergency goaltender Scott Foster is suited up & in the game after Collin Delia leaves the net with an apparent injury. pic.twitter.com/FyRl1R0lfW
According to Sportsnet Stats, it was his first competitive hockey appearance since he played Oct. 15, 2005, for Western Michigan. As Mark Lazerus of the Chicago Sun-Times noted, the 36-year-old won an open tryout to get the emergency goalie role.
It worked out for the Blackhawks, as Foster saved seven shots after entering in the third period of their 6-2 win. The teammates were ready to celebrate the surprise performance:
There was also plenty of excitement surrounding the moment:
Scott Foster was listed as a press box attendee tonight. He went from there to playing for the Blackhawks. I guess you just never know what's going to happen in life.
Chicago is in the midst of a lost season, having picked up just 74 points in 78 games and failed to reach the playoffs for the first time in 10 years, but this was at least a fun night for the franchise.
