Hawks’ power play struggles continue

The Blackhawks’ power play woes continue.

The team went 0-for-7 with 9 shots on the power play in Monday night’s game against the Predators, including two 5-on-3 opportunities, leaving them 4-for-45 on the season and scoreless in their last 18 chances.

The Hawks’ last power play goal came Oct. 22 from Jonathan Toews.

The Hawks did have their chances Monday night, but Predators goalie Pekka Rinne shut them down.

“I think we’ve been moving pretty well, especially in the power play,” said winger Marian Hossa. “I know we didn’t get a goal from it, but (Rinne) came up big tonight. We had so many great chances, and I think on a different night I think two extra goals would be in there for sure.”

The Hawks were ranked 27th in the league in power play points coming into Monday’s game, but head coach Joel Quenneville is still seeing good things from his power play unit.

“It’s been frustrating, Something’s got to give. We’ve been generating what we’re looking for, but we need production,” he said. “Our power play was much more effective (Saturday against Columbus), probably as good as we’ve seen it all year.

“We had three denied goals and one double post and generated some good looks. It all started because we started shooting the puck and it opened things up as we went along. Best way right now is to pound away and go off that.”

Patrick Sharp isn’t worried. “I think our power play is fine, to be honest with you,” he said. “The guys that are out there are confident and we’re not really worrying about it. The numbers aren’t where we want them to be but we’re not panicking.”