Tuesday, July 3, 2007

Hope and Hockey in Chicago

Enjoying a rare simultaneous week off, my father and I decided to play beat reporters today and make a trip to the second day of the Chicago Blackhawks Prospects camp. We were eager to see the new kids on the block, and perhaps catch a glimpse of some hidden potential.

We might as well dub the future Toews/Kane line the "hope" line, because these two athletes carry the hopes of beleagured Chicago fans on their young backs.. Kane dazzled with his rapid stickhandling and seemingly hit-proof skating, while Toews seemed to knock the puck around the ice effortlessly. Their chemistry is already fantastic. If Savard can match the correct style of winger with these two, then Chicago's second line (and future) is assured. As talented as the squads today were, these two athletes were on a whole other level.

Not wanting to be undone, the white team's Nigerian born Aliu and a fiesty Tanguay combined for some wonderful play on the other end of the ice. Aliu was aggressive and surprisingly elusive for a man of his size, showing great promise. Cam Barker was convincing on both sides of the ice, exuding the most veteran cool of any player on the ice.

It is unfortunate that Skille dissapeared after the drills -- it would have been nice to see his ability alongside that of the hope line.

If I had to pick an additional favorite or sleeper talent, it would have been Bertram. He was excellent in drills, adding offensive punch and even a fight during the scrimmage. This is a player that could potentially develop into top-line talent.

I am a jaded Blackhawks fan, and history has taught me not to hope too much. With the huge pool of young talent and recently signed veteran help, Tallon is tempting me into becoming a believer again. One this is certain: after what we witnessed today, we can't wait until October. Summer is too long without the greatest sport in the world...