Blackhawks’ Artemi Panarin leads all rookies in total points

The Blackhawks haven’t started the season as world beaters, but there have been a few bright stars through the first month of the season. One of which is rookie Artemi Panarin, who is fitting in perfectly on the top line.

On Sunday night, Panarin’s offense nearly single-handedly put the Blackhawks over the top. Panerin’s two goals and an assist helped the Blackhawks beat Edmonton 4-2. His three points now make Panerin the rookie points leader so far in the season.

Panarin may be a a surprise favorite for the Calder Memorial Trophy, given to the top rookie each year. He would be the first Blackhawks player to win the award since his teammate, Patrick Kane, won after the 2007-08 season. Kans is one of just two Blackhawks players to ever win the award, joining Ed Belfour.

Panarin was signed by the Blackhawks last year, coming over from Russia. He’s tallied a point in five of the last six games, and Sunday night was already his third multi-point game of the season.