In a town known for mobsters, rackets and gambling, the Chicago Blackhawks are betting their future on a pocket pair.
But the Blackhawks aren't bluffing when it comes to their two blue-chip prospects, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. The two talented teens do bring some hope to an organization that has been playing the role as a perpetually-unlucky poker pro for years.
Toews, the third overall pick in 2006, is the real ace-up-the-sleeve for coach Denis Savard. He brings smarts and leadership not often found in a 19-year-old rookie. Toews has been compared to Steve Yzerman for his play at both ends of the ice. Justifiably so.
Kane, taken first overall in 2007, is more of a wildcard. He's a few months younger - he doesn't turn 19 until November - and doesn't bring quite the full package Toews does.
What Kane brings is a prolific scoring ability. He can quickly turn a game around with his offensive touch. He's not a physical presence, but still finds open ice and has good vision.
Both rookies are expected to challenge for the Calder Trophy. If they live up to their potential and get the Blackhawks pointed towards a playoff spot, they'll get plenty of votes for the highly-coveted award.
It's not often an organization hits the jackpot with two superb draft selections in back-to-back years. Maybe that's a testament to just how bad Chicago was, not great scouting. Both were picked high in the first round.
As Toews and Kane mature over the next season or two, the thrifty Blackhawks might be forced to go all-in and gamble on some savvy, free-agent acquisitions - all in an effort to get back to respectability.
But they'll only avoid being first to push away from the table if Toews and Kane aren't busts.
It's a great deal to ask of them, but my money is on the two young stars beating the odds. Eventually they'll help the Hawks take a run towards the Stanley Cup jackpot. It's a city that hasn't seen good hockey for far too long.