This preseason for the Chicago Blackhawks had somewhat of a gloomy, disastrous feel to it; however newcomer Artemi Panarin and veteran Patrick Kane are showing that this Blackhawks offense still has more than enough firepower in it. With the losses of Brandon Saad and Patrick Sharp, it was easy to assume the defense and goaltending would have to be nearly perfect this season if the Blackhawks had any chance of repeating as Stanley Cup Champions. Although the defense and duo of Corey Crawford and Scott Darling in net must be good, Kane and Panarin have eased the pressure quite a bit.

Calder Watch

The rookie talks this season have revolved around Edmonton’s Connor McDavid and Buffalo’s Jack Eichel, but what about Chicago’s Artemi Panarin? Thus far, Panarin has recorded eight points through his first six games. He has been more than productive, and to put his start into perspective…he currently leads all rookies in points, yes more than McDavid and Eichel. So far, Panarin has a +4 rating on the ice, meaning when he is on the ice, the Blackhawks have outscored their opponents by four. Panarin is second on the team in points, trailing only the superstar Kane, who after last nights three point put out, now sits at 10. The signing of Panarin on May 1st should be something to look back on as a crucial acquisition if the Blackhawks are to repeat as champions.

Kane Rising Above Allegations

Kane has been an elite talent since he entered the league in 2007, but he has truly stepped up his game the past few seasons. He has continued his excellence on the ice this year so far, jumping out to a red hot start. Kane’s 10 points has him tied for second in the league, all the while stepping up when the team needed him the most. He has pushed aside the controversy and allegations surrounding him this offseason, and focused on hockey. He leads the Blackhawks with five goals scored, and holds a +3 rating on the ice. Kane has played through all the boos and chants at him regarding the offseason, and according to the Chicago Tribune, has stated that it doesn’t bother him.

“I’ve come to expect that on the road, especially this season, ” Kane said Saturday before the Hawks’ 4-1 victory over the Blue Jackets at the United Center. “I don’t think it’s anything that really bothers me.”

Kane and Panarin have looked great together thus far, and play off of eachother well. Coach Joel Quennville has said the same and loves the pair playing together according to UPI.com.

“They’re amazing players, first and foremost, ” Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville said. “Instinctually, they can anticipate what the other guy’s doing and where he’s going. And the upside is still there. It’s been fun to watch.”

It appears that Kane has found another friend on the ice, and everyone sees it. Kane makes plays and often keeps them alive long enough for snipers like Panarin to come in and send a blast to light the lamp. If the Russian rookie and NHL superstar can keep this up, Blackhawks fans may be in for yet another Stanley Cup.