Yesterday the Blackhawks returned to the ice for the first time since the 2010 Olympic Games. Several Hawks’ stars had participated in the tournament. Patrick Kane was the sole Hawk representing the U.S. team, but for the gold medalist Canadian team there were defensemen Ducan Keith and Brent Seabrook, and center Jonathan Toews. Wingers Marian Hossa and Thomas Kopecky played for the Slovakian team.

 Hopefully the Hawks return to winning in style with help from a couple young players including rookie goaltender Antti Niemi. He was signed as a free agent in on May fifth of 2008, but was recently pulled up this year. Despite a loss to the woeful Islanders on Tuesday night, Niemi is having a great year for the Hawks in between the pipes. His record is 17-5 and he has four shut outs this year, one of which came against  the power house Detroit Red Wings.

Another help would be rising star Patrick Kane. He’s leading the Hawks in three major offensive categories. He is leading the team with goals (26), game winning goals (5), shots on net (201), and an outstanding 44 assists. Kane has come through for Hawks numerous amounts of time during the season.

Kane is becoming a star He is only 21 years old and has a long bright future with the Blackhawks.

There is also the trade deadline soon. The Hawks might be shopping for another goalie to help support the rookie Niemi.

The Hawks have a long way to the 2010 playoffs. But now the long journey to the Stanley Cup continues. Chicago fans will have to wait and see if the Hawks bring home, and hoist the cup once again.