Transaction: Chicago Blackhawks acquire their next Andrew Shaw

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Joshua Deeds
July 26, 2024 (6:43 PM)

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The Chicago Blackhawks have just found their next Andrew Shaw, who was known as a forward who not only was versatile but agitated his opponents on the ice.

You could use to describe Tyler Bertuzzi's game, except arguably with a higher level of play, as he was exclusively paired with Auston Matthews often in 2023-2024.

Continues to grow from a forward expected to make his living as a role-playing agitator to one capable of playing big minutes and being a consistent offensive producer. Is a terrific competitor who comes to play every night. Goes to the net, gets his nose dirty, and should continue to improve as he moves through his mid-20s.

Long Range Potential: Energetic, dynamic scoring winger.

And if you wanna compare him to former Stanley Cup-winning Andrew Shaw:

Displayed a very good work rate and two-way acumen. Enjoyed agitating opponents and throwing them off their game. Also displayed versatility up front (he played all three forward positions in the National Hockey League. Did his best work in front of the opposing goal. Was never a great skater, but he got by due to his sheer determination. Never matched his junior scoring totals at the NHL level. Lacked ideal size, so his style wore him down over the course of his lengthy career. Concussion issues were prevalent towards the latter stages of his career (and ultimately forced him to retire early).

Long Range Potential: Agitating, versatile two-way forward (when healthy).

However, the ultimate difference between Shaw and Bertuzzi, we think is that Bertuzzi is easily a top-six forward, with two-way skills, while Shaw wasn't a highly productive forward, but a hard-nose grinder.

Who doesn't love the best of both worlds?

Source: SportsForeCaster
Andrew Shaw

Tyler Bertuzzi