The kids are more than alright
Eighteen, 19- and 20-year old kids are common in sports, but they usually don't look their age. Most of the great teenage athletes of our time appear old enough to buy life insurance, let alone a cocktail- Mike Tyson, Lebron James, Greg Oden. The rest at least acted as if they were older- Wayne Gretzky, Kobe Bryant, Martina Hingis. But the Blackhawks' Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews don't act, or look older than they are.
And that's why they're so much fun.
First off, both look as if they've been yanked outta study hall- shirts untucked, pants too baggy, hair too long (at least Kane's). I bet neither guy could even guess his jacket size within 2 measurements. And accessories? Their jewelry doesn't get any gaudier than a watch that also tells the weather, and the last time either guy had a shoeshine was Junior Prom.
Hearing them interviewed is always refreshing. Neither one speaks in canned sound bites or cliches. And do you know why? Because they don't know any yet! In time they will. So for now, cherish the rambling, stammering, meandering answers they provide.
Both are handsome, talented, wealthy 19-year olds. There's little they can't afford, few ventures they can't pursue, and even fewer young ladies who'd turn them down. But how do you entertain a lovely co-ed when you don't have your own place? Kane lives with the Hawks Assistant GM . . . and his wife and kids!
When I see Kane and Toews interviewed together, it's like watching 2 goofy kids. Not young men, not young professionals- kids. And it's been so long since I saw 2 athletes so unblemished, so unjaded, and so genuine. How long?
My entire life!