Scott Powers, ESPN Staff Writer 10y

Brad Richards gets chance on power play

CHICAGO -- The Chicago Blackhawks hope the acquisition of Brad Richards helps them not only on their second line, but also on their power play.

Richards has been given a power-play role with teams throughout his career, and Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville said Tuesday he plans to give Richards that opportunity as well.

Richards worked with Brent Seabrook, Marian Hossa, Brandon Saad and Bryan Bickell on the Blackhawks' second power-play unit during practice on Tuesday. The first unit included Duncan Keith, Patrick Sharp, Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews and Andrew Shaw.

"That's probably how we're going to start," Quenneville said of Richards on the power play. "He's been there for most of his career, and I think he's effective in that area. I don't mind him there right now. Looks good on the point for us."

Richards led the New York Rangers with 19 power-play points, which included five goals and 14 assists, and 301:39 power-play ice time last season. The Rangers finished 15th in the league with an 18.2 power-play percentage during the regular season.

Richards replaced Blackhawks defenseman Nick Leddy on the team's second unit. Leddy had been a fixture on the Blackhawks' power play the past three seasons. He had four goals and six assists on the power play last season.

The Blackhawks tied for ninth last season with a 19.5 power-play percentage.

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