Williams looks like right-winger
Right wing, center or wherever, it doesn't matter to Jason Williams. As long as he's on ice for the Blackhawks, he's happy.
After playing center last season, Williams showed off his skills on right wing Sunday, scoring twice and dishing out an assist in the Hawks' 4-3 exhibition win over the St. Blues at the United Center.
"I don't mind it," Williams said. "Wherever I have to be to get as much ice time as I can, I'll be there."
Right wing is where Savard think Williams plays best.
"We've talked about this, and Willy's a better right winger and it shows," Savard said. "Willy's a good player. He came into camp in great shape. He's played really well."
Williams played 20 games with the Hawks last year after being acquired in a trade from Detroit. In total, he had 15 goals and 32 points in 78 games last season.
He believes starting this season in Chicago will make a difference.
"Knowing the guys a little better, just being a little settled, not living in a hotel," Williams said. "It's a little better when you're in your home and getting home-cooked meals and things like that. It makes it a little easier settling in and focus on playing good hockey."
Williams does have a little more than just playing hockey on his mind these days. He recently returned to home in London, Ontario, to see his ailing father, Norm.
"Obviously knowing what he's going through makes it a little difficult," Williams said. "I think just knowing my mom and brother are really helping him and taking care of him and keeping his spirits good. Just being able to talk to him every day helps out a little bit."
Pair of No. 1s: Sunday's game included the No. 1 picks in the past two NHL drafts -- the Blackhawks' Patrick Kane (2007) and the Blues' Erik Johnson (2006). Like Kane, Johnson will be making his NHL debut this season. Johnson, a defenseman, opted to play at the University of Minnesota last season after being drafted.
Kane had a quiet Sunday going without a point. He did have 3 shots on goal.
On the road again: The Blackhawks will conclude the rest of the preseason with three road games. They open the regular season at Minnesota on Oct. 4. They return to the United Center to face the division favorite Detroit Red Wings on Oct. 7.