Kane addresses his absence in Game 3

CALGARY, Alberta - Patrick Kane was aware of the beating he took from some fans on several Chicago talk radio shows Monday for missing Game 3 against the Flames because of the flu.

"I didn't feel that great and it got to the point midday where I didn't really think I could help contribute to the team, so I decided to take the day off and try to get myself better for Game 4," Kane said.

Kane took a huge hit from Rene Bourque in Game 1 but said it had nothing to do with missing Game 3.

"I heard a lot of rumors on what happened and everything," Kane said. "There can be a lot said, but I guess only one person really knows and that's myself. I don't think it had anything to do with the hits or anything. I just wasn't feeling up to par."

Kane then poked a little fun at all the speculation from Monday.

"To be honest with you, I actually had a funeral to go back to in Chicago," Kane said. "My goldfish that I had since I was 10 years old died, so I had to go back and say my prayers and flush him down the toilet."

Kane practiced Tuesday on a line with Jonathan Toews and Patrick Sharp. He also worked with the second power-play unit of Kris Versteeg, Troy Brouwer, Brent Seabrook and Brian Campbell.

"Having him back gives us more options with lines," Hawks coach Joel Quenneville said.

"He's always an offensive factor for us," Toews said. "We're looking forward to having him back. Everyone knows what he brings to our team and what he means to our team."

Silent treatment: While Flames coach Mike Keenan continued to talk about what he didn't like about what the Hawks were doing in the series, Joel Quenneville took the high road Tuesday.

Quenneville chose not to comment on Keenan's claim that Quenneville used questionable tactics when Adam Burish went after Rene Bourque in the final minute in Game 3. Quenneville also wouldn't address what Calgary has been able to get away with after whistles.

"This is not the forum to discuss this in," Quenneville said. "We have our ways to get our points across and handle it in the proper channels."

Tip-ins: The Flames held an optional practice Tuesday, while the Hawks had a full workout minus Duncan Keith and Martin Havlat, who were resting. - Center Dave Bolland worked with the first power-play unit at the right point as he did for much of Game 3. - Tonight's game can be heard on WIND 560-AM because of a scheduling conflict involving the Cubs on WGN.