The Chicago Blackhawks got an impressive rookie campaign from Andrew Shaw in 2011-12. The following season, Brandon Saad helped the 'Hawks hoist the Stanley Cup in his rookie year.
This year's model is center Brandon Pirri.
Finally getting his chance to prove himself on the second line, Pirri has responded with six goals and five assists in 16 games with Chicago. Since the 'Hawks recalled Pirri from Rockford Oct. 11, he has made his way up the depth chart and has shown that he can score in the NHL game.
Pirri lacks the power game of Saad, and Pirri's defensive issues have been frequently pointed out by his detractors. Sometimes Pirri's speed is called into question. As a result, what Pirri does well on the ice can be overlooked.
By way of comparison, here are the numbers of Shaw, Saad and Pirri after 16 appearances in the season that they stuck with the club:
Shaw (2011-12): Five goals, three assists, minus-four.
Saad (2012-13): Three goals, plus-two.
Pirri (2013-14): Six goals, five assists, plus-six.
Pi ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Jon Fromi
Chicago Blackhawks: Brandon Pirri May Be Next Rookie Sensation
November 18th, 2013 by Jon Fromi Leave a reply »
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