Chicago Blackhawks Trivia: See How Far Your Fandom Goes

1. Who is the captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, and what number does he wear on the back of his sweater?

OK, we’ll start easy.  I’m pretty sure if you are a general hockey fan, or even just a fan of sports, you know the answer to this question.

Yes, it’s Jonathan Toews, and he sports number 19.  Toews was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2006, and joined the team for the 2007-08 season.  The following year, he was named captain, making him the second-youngest NHL captain of all-time behind Sidney Crosby.

For some bonus trivia, ice hockey originated outdoors, and the players wore heavy wool sweaters to keep warm.  This is why you might still hear a hockey jersey be referred to as a sweater.  Most people now call them jerseys, which is the generic term that is also used for football, basketball, baseball, etc.

2.  Who is the oldest player on the roster, and how old is he?

This would be defenseman Michal Rozsival.  Rozy is currently 38 years old, having been born in September of 1978.  Forward Marian Hossa is also 38, but he was born a few months later, in January of 1979.  Defenseman Brian Campbell isn’t too far behind, at 37 years of age.

3.  Who is the youngest player on the roster, and how young is he?

Nick Schmaltz is currently the youngest player on the roster.  Coincidentally, he just turned 21 years old this past Thursday, when he scored a goal and an assist against the Minnesota Wild.  Ryan Hartman and Vinnie Hinostroza (who just got re-assigned to the Rockford IceHogs) are both 22 years old.

4.  Who are the six core players who have won three Stanley Cups together and are still on the active roster?

Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook, Marian Hossa and Niklas Hjalmarsson.  Patrick Sharp was also there for all three Cups, but he is now a member of the Dallas Stars.  Corey Crawford is sometimes considered part of the “core,” but he has only won two Cups.  Interestingly, nobody seems to remember that Marcus Kruger has also won two Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks.

5.  Name the forward line that includes the Hart Trophy winner and the Calder Trophy winner from the 2015-2016 season.

This would be the second line that comprises Artemi Panarin (Calder Trophy), Artem Anisimov, and Patrick Kane (Hart Trophy).  I think I can safely say (although, being a ’Hawks fan, I’m a tad bit biased) that this is considered one of the best lines in the NHL right now.  With all the line changing that Coach Q is notorious for, he has kept this trio together for the better part of this last season and this season.