Despite slump in scoring, Sharp tries to stay positive
The return to wing was supposed to help Patrick Sharp regain his touch with scoring goals.
So far it hasn't worked.
Sharp has 2 goals in the last 15 games, which would be a bigger story if not for a worse slump by Patrick Kane, who has 1 goal in his last 18 games.
Sharp is staying positive that things will turn for him soon.
"It just happens during the course of a long season," Sharp said. "Scoring is a funny thing. You can score five games in a row then go five games without a goal.
"It's tough to know when the next one is going to come. I'm playing hard and I'm not hurting the team, except for the fact the puck's not going in. I know it's going to turn. I'm confident I can put the puck in the net and I'm looking forward to doing it (tonight against Atlanta)."
Hawks coach Joel Quenneville likes what he has seen of Sharp at wing with Jonathan Toews since the all-star break.
"That line has been fine," Quenneville said. "I'm sure he's more comfortable at wing and that versatility having (Kris) Versteeg at center, I think he's doing a nice job in that role. I think as a group we'll all get better knowing we have more options heading into the latter part of the year."
Back to the road: After a short two days at home, the Hawks' eight-game road trip continues tonight in Atlanta against a Thrashers team in 14th place in the Eastern Conference.
The Hawks are eager to bounce back from Saturday's 7-3 loss at Vancouver that dropped them to 4-2 on the trip.
"That loss in Vancouver was a good slap in the face," Cristobal Huet said. "We had a few days here to regroup, see some video, have a good practice and get ready to get back out on the road."
The last two games of the trip are against teams in Atlanta and St. Louis with two of the worst records in the NHL.
"We weren't happy with our effort in the last last game," Patrick Sharp said. "We have to focus on this next game no matter who we're playing."
Familiar faces: Joel Quenneville and Thrashers coach John Anderson are no strangers. They were teammates in the NHL with the Hartford Whalers.
"It's nice to see him getting an opportunity," Quenneville said. "He's a great guy and his team is better. They've progressed this year. He's one of those guys you're glad things worked for him. He paid his dues and had a lot of success here in Chicago (with the Wolves)."