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Kane, Panarin are driving force behind Chicago's surge

Jeff Vinnick / National Hockey League / Getty

Remember when Joel Quenneville split up Patrick Kane and Artemi Panarin?

It wasn't punishment by any means, as Quenneville was handcuffed by injuries and inexperienced forward depth. He wanted a more balanced attack, and there's certainly nothing wrong with experimenting early in the season.

However, now 34 games in, to hell with that idea.

The Chicago Blackhawks have won five in a row, and are eight points clear of Minnesota for first in the Central, largely due to the production of the league's most dynamic duo.

Panarin is tied for third in league scoring (34), while Kane is tied for the fourth-highest output (32). Over their last 10 games, they have 13 and nine points, respectively.

This is hardly news, though. No tandem has been more productive offensively since the start of the 2015-16 season.

Player Games Goals Assists Points
Kane 116 56 (3rd) 82 (2nd) 138 (1st)
Panarin 114 44 (9th) 67 (7th) 111 (5th)

* (x) indicates league rank

Much of the attention regarding this season's scoring race has been focused on Connor McDavid's pursuit of the Art Ross or Sidney Crosby's torrid goal pace, but don't sleep on the pair of wingers steering the ship in the Windy City.

They're still the reigning MVP and rookie of the year, after all.

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