If becoming the first Stanley Cup champion to repeat since the 1997-98 Detroit Red Wings wasn't enough of a challenge, the Chicago Blackhawks now have the Sports Illustrated cover jinx to overcome.
Patrick Kane and the Hawks are featured on the magazine's national cover this week with the headline, "Repeat After Us: Hawks. Champs. Again."
It is the fourth time the Hawks have been on SI's cover in just over six months.
"It's pretty exciting," Kane said following the Hawks' practice Wednesday at Johnny's IceHouse West. "Not only for yourself personally but for where this team is at. It seems like we've been on it quite a bit lately. It's a good thing for hockey. Obviously, being a Blackhawk helps you get those opportunities."
SI forecasts a finals victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins, writing that the Hawks "will benefit from playing in the weak (now that Detroit is gone) Central Division. Oh, yes, (Jonathan) Toews and Conn Smythe winner Patrick Kane (23 goals, 55 points), 24, are entering their prime. There's no other pick. Not even close."