Makarov makes impact in first two days of Hawks camp

Blackhawks rookie left wing Igor Makarov impressed for the second day in a row of training camp on Sunday at the United Center.

Makarov celebrated his 23rd birthday with a goal and 2 assists in two scrimmages, making him the leading scorer after two days of camp with 3 goals and 3 assists.

The true test for Makarov and other impressive rookies such as left wing Kyle Beach will be the eight-game preseason, which gets under way Wednesday night against Tampa Bay in Winnipeg.

Makarov is catching the eye of everyone, including coach Joel Quenneville and captain Jonathan Toews.

"He wants the puck, he seems to go to the net real strong and real hard, and there's some production behind that game as well," Quenneville said. "He's a guy that we'll give a good shot here to see how he can handle it. We'll get a good assessment as we go along."

Toews' team lost 7-2 on Sunday to a team that included Makarov.

"Obviously his skill level is there," Toews said. "He can bury the puck. He's had a handful of the goals the last couple days and is a fun player to watch."

Makarov certainly owns the kind of speed and skill the Hawks want. While the plan might have been to start Makarov in Rockford in his first season coming over from Russia, a good showing in the exhibition games could alter his course.

"You're always objective," Quenneville said. "I think you go into every camp knowing there's always some surprises. Guys sometimes progress a little faster than you envision and it's a healthy thing."