Somehow, it does not surprise me that this streak started in the 2008 season. Is it really a coincidence that the 2008 season was two years after current captain Jonathan Toews was drafted and a year after superstar and current league leader in points Patrick Kane was drafted? I don't think so. However, I cannot give credit fully to these two players. The Blackhawks had great draft picks in 2002 and 2003 drafting Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook; players that have been the core of the 'Hawks defence in their recent seasons of success.
I then look at the Vancouver Canucks this season and my jaw drops for reasons that I assure you are not because of their continued dominance. Instead, it's a mix of a ridiculous amount of blown third period leads, an inability to win in overtime, and the fact that they are tied with the Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs in points. Now those are teams you never thought the Canucks would be comparable to!
There is room for optimism however, especially keeping the Blackhawk's history in mind. 2013 and 2014 draft picks Bo Horvat and Jake Virtanen have brought a certain energy and physical presence to the team that I have not seen since the West Coast Express line. Moreover, the Canucks aren't in their usual mid-standing position that leads to mid-round draft picks. A top three draft pick could be just what the doctor ordered, and maybe even the beginning of a Blackhawk-esque run.
But can we do what the Blackhawks have done? Can the Canucks really become a Stanley Cup contender every year? It starts with good scouting, good draft picks, and a whole lot of luck. After all, for every Connor McDavid, there are 20 Nail Yakupovs, and the Canucks really don't need another flop (Cody Hodgson, Patrick White, Jordan Schroeder, Nicklas Jensen, the list goes on).
I am not the type of person to stop supporting a team because of a losing season and I am not going to start now. However, I must admit my overall interest in hockey is declining because of the Canucks. I am clinging to the optimism brought to me by the Blackhawks and our young stars, but barely. How much longer are you going to hold on for?
