April 12--It's not official yet, but it appears the Chicago Blackhawks will head into the postseason without one of their most reliable weapons: Patrick Kane's mullet.
The Hawks winger said on WGN-AM 720 on Tuesday morning that, "I think I'm going to skip the mullet this year."
Kane, who captured the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL's leading scorer, has traditionally worn a mullet -- complete with racing stripes etched onto the side of his head -- during the playoffs. He has also dragged teammates into the process at times, including former Hawks winger Brandon Saad, who is now with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
"I'm catching a lot of heat for it," Kane said after Tuesday's practice. "But I first did it when I couldn't grow a beard. I think those days are past. I can grow somewhat of a beard now and things have been going pretty good this year, so I don't want to change too much right now. I don't think a haircut's going to mean too much in the big scheme of things on the ice."
Following Monday's practice, captain Jonathan Toews said he hoped Kane brought back the mullet.
"If he's a team player he has to take one for the team," Toews said with a grin.
The Hawks will open the first round of the playoffs against the St. Louis Blues on Wednesday night. It appears Kane's mullet will not be on hand.
