Blackhawks Move Kevin Korchinski to Top Power Play Unit, Demote Seth Jones

Entering play Wednesday, the Blackhawks rank 29th in the NHL with an 11.3% conversion rate on the power play. They also rank 29th with just six goals scored on the man advantage – a number that needs to increase if the Blackhawks are to break out of their current funk.

Jones, a veteran blueliner in his 11th NHL season, was understanding of the change after recording just one power-play assist through 16 games.

"Nothing has really been clicking so we've got to change it up," he said. "Kev is great puck-mover and it's just a different look for us. We want to get more shots to the net, so try to develop chemistry somewhere.

"Everyone wants to score, so when it's not working, you all try to do it yourself — and I'm guilty of that, as well — instead of working together and sticking together to try to get a goal."

Korchinski's offensive prowess from the blue line was a major factor in the Blackhawks selecting him with the No. 7 pick in the 2022 NHL Draft, after all. Sixteen games into his pro career, the 19-year-old has one goal and four assists with two of those helpers coming on the power play.

By elevating him to the top unit, the Blackhawks hope that number will climb via savvy puck movement. Korchinski understands the significance of the move and is ready to rise to the occasion.

"Obviously it's a privilege. It means that they trust me, which is awesome. And yeah, it's an opportunity," he said.

The Blackhawks' new-look power play units will be on display in game action for the first time on Wednesday when they visit the Blue Jackets. Puck drop is at 6 PM CT and the game will air on NBC Sports Chicago.