Blackhawks Power Play a Future Concern?

Feb 12, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Duncan Keith (left) and center Jonathan Toews (middle) and right wing Patrick Kane (right) talk during the overtime period against the Anaheim Ducks at the United Center. The Ducks beat the Blackhawks 3-2 in the shootout. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Blackhawks have not lost in regulation this year, but don’t let that fool you, they have their weak points. Among all of the good things going on, they still are confronted with issues on the power play.

The Hawks are less than good on the power play this season, at a whopping 18.2 percent, the Hawks have some work to do to say the least. The only thing that’s keeping the team afloat on special teams is the penalty kill at 91.5 percent, only 2 percent behind Boston for the league lead.

The concerned continued Tuesday when the Hawks faced Anaheim. The Hawks gave up a late tying goal, and within the last minute went on the power play. After failing in regulation they went into overtime. In overtime the Hawks gained another power play, and failed once again. After the overtime, the Ducks Corey Perry beat Crawford in a shootout to win.

Should this be a concern for Chicago? What should Coach Q do? The start should come from the past success. When Chicago was successful they used passing, and strategy to succeed. When the Hawks pass and move around in the zone they can be effective. Players like Patrick Kane, and Marian Hossa can handle in the zone to create chances. Look at the Blackhawks overtime win against Dallas.

Essentially the Chicago Blackhawks have nothing to worry about now, but moving forward this season, and into the playoffs, the Hawks need all they can get to produce down the stretch. Look for more movement and strategy scoring up, with different style, and pairings.