Three Montreal Canadiens Flying Under the Radar

Lastly: Andrew Shaw

While he has not played in 2019 due to an ill-timed injury, he was on an absolute tear when he went down. He was on pace for a 25 goal and 55 point season if he had been able to play the full season with his current totals of 11 goals and 13 assists in 36 games.

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He came to Montreal in a trade with Chicago which sent two second-round picks the other way. One of those picks turned into Alex Debrincat, who already has his 25 goals, along with 18 assists, this season through 51 games. While Chicago undoubtedly won the trade, it is unfair to compare the two players because Chicago drafted wisely, the Montreal Canadiens did not knowingly send an A-level prospect the other way.

Andrew Shaw is a joy to watch. He is hated by his opponents and is loved by his teammates. Like Brendan Gallagher, he is more than willing to get into the rough spots of the ice and do the dirty work. This results in many gritty, ugly, enjoyable goals.

Shaw may be healthy enough to play against the Devils on Saturday and will most likely slot into the fourth line, as his return coincides with that of Paul Byron who will slot back into the second line. Shaw will probably kick Deslauriers up to the press box and will play with Michael Chaput and Kenny Agostino. While Shaw was very effective on the first/second line with Domi and Drouin, he will fit in nicely on the fourth line. His grit will be on full display, and he will add the long desired offensive touch to the fourth line.

Shaw’s return will instantly make the Canadiens’ forward corps stronger, and he has been a valuable component this season.