Blackhawks notes: Richardson puts Reichel in a spot usually reserved for bigger players

Blackhawks coach Luke Richardson made an interesting tweak to the top power-play unit, placing struggling forward Lukas Reichel in the bumper spot.

"Give him some opportunities to shoot some pucks," Richardson said. "But also we need more help in that middle spot."

The bumper position - located between the faceoff circles in the offensive zone - could be a tough spot for the 6-foot, 170-pound Reichel. He's never played it before, as it's generally reserved for bigger players.

Still, the Hawks have used the 5-8, 185-pound Tyler Johnson there in the past.

"We have a hard time getting set up when teams pressure so hard off faceoffs and entries," Richardson said. "Him getting side to side will be a good spot for him."

Said Reichel: "In the preseason you saw we moved the puck quick. Try to get back to (that) … and getting quick shots. Other plays will open up."

The Hawks are obviously hoping this change gets Reichel (no goals, 2 assists) and the power play (5-for-46) going as both have struggled mightily to start the season.

Reichel's goal drought may concern some coaches, but Richardson remains encouraged because of other things he's seen.

"You know what, I haven't been disappointed with him," Richardson said. "He's skated back extremely hard, he's been playing really responsibly defensively.

"(But) a guy like that at some point you've got to produce. We're just trying to be encouraging for him."

Not yet:

Taylor Hall skated on the second line during practice Wednesday, but the veteran forward still isn't 100% and will not play against Tampa Bay on Thursday. Hall is dealing with a lower-body injury.

"Hopefully it's pretty soon," Richardson said. "I thought he looked good out there."

Hall has played in 8 of 13 games, registering 2 goals and 2 assists.

Funny man:

Luke Richardson had a couple memorable quips near the end of his news conference Monday.

• After reporters noted how much time Connor Bedard and Kevin Korchinski spend on the ice after practice, Richardson said: "Hopefully they go home and have a nap in the afternoon and not watch Young and the Restless. Take it easy and get ready for the next day. It does add up."

• Bedard was impressed when he walked into the gym at 7 a.m. Sunday and saw Richardson drenched in sweat. To which Richardson said, "He came in right after I poured my water bottle on myself."

Tip-ins:

After a tough schedule to start the season, things will lighten up for the Hawks after they host Tampa Bay on Thursday. After that six of the next 10 opponents have a points percentage of .469 or worse. ... Through Tuesday, Connor Bedard led all rookies in goals (9) and points (13). Anaheim's Leo Carlsson is second in goals with 6, while Arizona's Logan Cooley is second in points with 11.