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Serious performance: Blackhawks gain on Wild thanks to Toews’ five points

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Jonathan Toews had five points, including a hat trick, as the Blackhawks beat the Wild 5-3 and cut into Minnesota's lead in the Central Division.

If the Chicago Blackhawks are going to make up some serious ground and overtake the Minnesota Wild for the Central Division title, they’ll need wins like these.

It’s only fitting that “Captain Serious” Jonathan Toews did the heavy lifting, generating a hat trick and two assists as the Blackhawks beat the Wild 5-3 on Tuesday.

Yes, Toews was involved in every goal. And yes, the Blackhawks won this one in regulation after beating the Wild in overtime last time around. It’s a nice swing for Chicago:

Central Division title chase

1. Wild - 84 points in 59 games (39 wins, 36 ROW)
2. Blackhawks - 79 points in 60 games (37 wins, 35 ROW)

Yeah, that’s still a substantial edge for Minnesota ... but this is a significant swing.

Even beyond the name recognition that comes with Toews & Co., the Blackhawks’ push shouldn’t be surprising. They’re red-hot in February so far, going 7-1-0 despite playing seven of eight on the road (strangely losing that lone home contest).

The Wild have played reasonably well in their own right, yet this loss sends them into a bye week with some frustration ... and maybe some questions about whether they can hold the Blackhawks off.

Also, tonight marked a nice milestone for Joel Quenneville: