Chicago Blackhawks ride their biggest stars into second round of NHL playoffs

CHICAGO - For four straight games, the Chicago Blackhawks reminded the rest of the NHL why they are one tough out in the playoffs.

Pushed into a corner by the St. Louis Blues, Jonathan Toews (tayvz) and company pushed back.

Toews had three game-winning goals as Chicago's biggest stars stepped up in the first round of the playoffs. Patrick Kane scored in overtime of Game 4, and Duncan Keith had a goal and three assists in the Blackhawks' clinching 5-1 victory over the Blues in Game 6 on Sunday.

Marian Hossa and Patrick Sharp also helped the defending Stanley Cup champions rally after losing the first two games in overtime in St. Louis.

Chicago gets a couple days off before it starts to prepare for the second round of the playoffs.