Chicago Sports: Creating a modern-day Mount Rushmore
2. Jonathan Toews, Chicago Blackhawks (7 votes)
Chicago sports fans are always appealed by hard-working blue-collar players. I mean, most fan bases are, but it is different in Chicago. Jonathan Toews is an incredibly talented hockey player. But his skills set is not flashy like someone like Patrick Kane. Instead, he dominates with will and determination.
Toews was the third overall pick by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2006 NHL Draft. He made an immediate impact as a rookie, scoring 54 points in 64 games in 2007-08. After a strong rookie season, Toews was named the captain of the Blackhawks in 2008-09. At only 20 years old, Toews was the third-youngest captain in NHL history at the time.
A true leader, smart player and absolute star on the ice, Toews he was the centerpiece of three Stanley Cup championship teams (2010, 2013 and 2015). Toews was named the Conn Smythe Trophy in 2010, becoming the second-youngest player to ever win the award.
More from Khari Thompson on Toews:
"Captain Serious has been the figurehead of what has become a hockey renaissance here in Chicago. He led the Blackhawks to their first Stanley Cup title in 49 years back in 2010 and then proceeded to guide them to two more (2013, 2015). And just think: he’s only 29. By the time his career is over, he might overtake His Airness in title wins. Where would we put him then? He’s young, but there’s no reason he doesn’t already deserve this honor."
Before it’s all said and done, Toews will undoubtedly be among the greats in the history of Chicago Sports. For now, we place him easily on the modern Mount Rushmore.