He's only 22 years old, but former UND All-American Jonathan Toews is headed to his second NHL All-Star Game.
Toews was voted in by the fans, receiving 407,676 votes -- second only to Pittsburgh Penguins forward Sidney Crosby. Forward Evgeni Malkin, defenseman Kris Letang, defenseman Duncan Keith and goalie Marc-Andre Fleury also were voted in by the fans.
The rest of the roster will be determined by a draft-style format. Those results will be announced next week.
Toews, the captain of the Chicago Blackhawks, previously was named to the All-Star Game in 2009. Last year, there was no game because of the Olympics.
The All-Star Game will be held Jan. 30 in Raleigh, N.C.
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"It's amazing," Toews said. "I have the fans to thank. It's tough to think I would be there otherwise if it wasn't for the fan voting, so I have the fans to thank for that. I'll try not to disappoint. I'm not getting carried away with the thought because there are a bunch of guys in here that could be doing that."
Toews has tallied 35 points in 39 games this season. He ranks second on the defending Stanley Cup champions in goals (16), assists (19), points and plus-minus rating (plus-8).
Toews will likely be the only former Sioux playing in the All-Star Game this year. Zach Parise, T.J. Oshie and Drew Stafford have all spent long stretches of the first half on injured reserve.
Reach Schlossman at (701) 780-1129; (800) 477-6572, ext. 129; or send e-mail to bschlossman@gfherald.com .
