TAMPA, Fla. -- Chicago Blackhawks rookie forward Teuvo Teravainen already wants less attention.
“I might not score today because I'll let the other guys score today, so I won't be in the spotlight the next couple days,” Teravainen joked after the team’s morning skate Saturday prior to the Game 2 of the Stanley Cup finals.
The problem for Teravainen is Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville is actually increasing his chance of being in the spotlight by adding him to the power play. After seeing only the occasional power-play ice time during the season, Teravainen was placed on the Blackhawks’ power-play unit during Game 1 of the Stanley Cup finals.
As much as Teravainen jokes, he has wanted to be on the power play for some time. He’s been a major power-play contributor at every level throughout his career. With his vision and passing ability, he’s often been an asset in that role.
“Of course, it’s exciting,” said Teravainen, who had a goal and an assist in Game 1. “I know I can help the team with the power play because I think I have some of the right skills. I can make some plays in there. It’s pretty nice to get out there and help the team, too. ... That’s what I’ve been doing all my life, that’s why I know what I’m doing there. I just try to create something with my skills.”
Quenneville is hopeful Teravainen can help, too. Quenneville thought it was a matter of him not being overwhelmed by the opportunity.
“I think everybody wants to be on the power play,” Quenneville said. “Everybody likes that quality ice. For a skill player, you get that opportunity, you don't want to put too much pressure. You don't want to feel like there's certain plays that have to be made, passing the puck to certain guys, that entitlement of moving around. Don't feel like you're I don't know about intimidated, but don't feel your obligated to do certain things.
“The reason you're on the power play is you recognize what your options are and your patience and play selection is high end. Get out there, do your thing. I think he can contribute in meaningful ways five-on-five, and adding that power play to his game will add to his five-on-five game as well.”