Chicago Blackhawks Over/Under Preview

Mar 21, 2012; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Blackhawks center Andrew Shaw (65) celebrates scoring the game winning goal in overtime against Vancouver Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo (1) at the United Center. The Blackhawks beat the Canucks in overtime 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Andrew Shaw had a better than expected rookie season last year as shown in his summer review. He was just an assist away from a Gordie Howe hat trick in his first game against the Philadelphia Flyers and had a talent for being in the right place at the right time – as well as the wrong place at the wrong time. He endeared himself to Chicago Blackhawks fans with spirited, gritty play that he has kept up this season with the Rockford Ice Hogs.

In 37 games last season in Chicago, Shaw scored 12 goals and 11 assists, and this season has 8 goals and 6 assists in 28 games for Rockford.

Shaw will go to all areas of the ice to get the puck, screen the goalie, or defend his teammates. Sometimes that costs him a game or two. And sometimes that wins a game or two. It’s a style that’s fun to watch and valuable to the Blackhawks as long as he isn’t reckless with it and can keep his suspensions to a minimum. His track record in Rockford this year says that he still hasn’t learned that lesson, and after factoring in a few suspension games, I set Shaw’s over/under at 13 goals, 12 assists for the upcoming season.

What’s your prediction for Shaw this season?

For more updates and conversation, follow us on Twitter @Blackhawk_Up and friend us on Facebook at Blackhawk Up.