Chicago Blackhawks’ Who’s Hot And Not: Russians Stay Hot Despite Skid

By Aaron Goldschmidt

Dec 29, 2016

Feb 25, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks left wing Artemi Panarin (72) passes the puck with center Artem Anisimov (15) pursuing during the second period against the Nashville Predators at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 27, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Winnipeg Jets defenseman Dustin Byfuglien (33) and Chicago Blackhawks center Jonathan Toews (19) go for the puck during the first period at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports /

Who’s Not: Jonathan Toews

Off to the worst offensive start of his career, Jonathan Toews is looking for something to get him going again.

With 5 goals and 10 assists on the season, seven different ’Hawks have more points than the captain, but Toews did miss some time from being on IR.

Because NHL teams are so vague about specific injuries, it’s hard for those outside the organization to draw conclusions as to why individuals may be struggling. Given Toews’ past issues with concussions, let’s hope this sort of injury has nothing to do with No. 19.

That being said, Toews is underperforming for being the highest paid player in the NHL at $10.5 million per year. Many will support Toews saying he does so much more on the ice that isn’t quantified, but this isn’t an excuse.

There is no doubt he earned his contract giving the city of Chicago three Stanley Cups, but that was then. Let’s hope he can get his groove back in the second half of the season and in time for the playoffs.