With Patrick Kane Scratched from Lineup, Hawks Look to Cool the Flames

The Chicago Blackhawks will be looking to end their mini two-game losing streak at the United Center on Sunday night, but they will have to do it without their leading scorer. Patrick Kane, hobbled by a high ankle sprain suffered in the team's December 30th loss to the Red Wings, will be out of the line-up for the first time in his career on Sunday night, when the Hawks take on the Flames in a battle of top-tier Western Conference foes. "I have to fight through those things as time goes on," Kane told the NHL's official Web site. "You're never going to be completely healthy out there. It was tough for me (playing in the Winter Classic)." According to various stories, it is unclear whether or not Kane will miss any more time. But the fact remains that it is difficult to replace the 41 points he has racked up thus far this season. Making the situation even more daunting is that these Flames have not lost a game since the Blackhawks defeated them on December 19th, winning five games in a row. ... (link)