The 2022-23 season has not gotten off to the best of starts for the Minnesota Wild. What was expected to be another promising campaign for the Wild has been anything but. They are allowing better than 6 goals per game en route to an 0-3-0 record.
Though it may be early in the season, it may not be too early for a shakeup. That shakeup, be it a small one, is in the recall of Mason Shaw. But what can he offer to the team that can make a difference?
đź—ž ROSTER NEWS đź—ž
We've recalled forward Mason Shaw from Iowa. #mnwild
— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) October 16, 2022
The Problem with the Wild
The Wild are in something of a difficult spot, needing to replace major offensive weapon Kevin Fiala. Fiala, who was due for a new contract, wound up being dealt to the Los Angeles Kings in the offseason. Fiala is off to a hot start in his new digs, racking up a goal and four assists through the team’s first five games.
The problem for the Wild was replacing Fiala. Sure, center Ryan Hartman experienced a breakout season. Yes, winger Kirill Kaprizov is coming off a franchise-best season. Mats Zuccarello continues to be a strong offensive force.
But depth in the forward ranks is not what it should be. Not if the Wild hope to contend for a Stanley Cup championship. The hope for the Wild is that they could replace from within.
Matt Moldy has been what they hoped, racking up a pair of goals and three assists through the first three games. Calen Addison, getting his first full-time experience on the blue line, has four assists. The offense is there.
If anything, the problem for the Wild right now is in defense and goaltending. But that is a different story. Speed is necessary throughout the lineup and the Wild are looking to interject it wherever they can. This brings us to Shaw.
"I know what my responsibilities are so tonight I'll do everything I can to help get a win for this group"
đź—Ł Mason Shaw on knowing his role tonight with the group. #mnwild pic.twitter.com/mGyl0ltQ7a
— Minnesota Wild (@mnwild) October 17, 2022
Meet Mason Shaw
Shaw, a 4th round pick in the 2017 NHL Draft, is an interesting prospect for the Wild. He gets the call-up, his second one to date (the other being 3 games during 2021-22. He was given the captaincy of the Iowa Wild of the AHL this past season, illustrating his readiness to take the next step.
Shaw has been an interesting case thus far. During his draft season, he had an offensive explosion for Medicine Hat of the WHL, racking up 94 points in 71 games. But that was the beginning of a troubling path forward.
He would miss the entire 2017-18 season thanks to injury, suiting up in a single game for Iowa. He came back in 2018-19 to play his first full season, showing very good skating ability and deft playmaking ability.
Injuries would creep up again during the 2019-20 season, limiting him to just 17 games. The following season would be no different, limiting Shaw to 30 games. The bright side is that he managed 22 points in those 30 games, showing real growth in his offensive game.
That is the question mark as of right now for Shaw. He is productive when he is on the ice but it is a matter of whether he can stay there. The offensive potential is there but the knee injuries have been as well. In a league where skating is a necessity, knee injuries can be a death knell for any career.
nifty little backhand ✨
🚨: Mason Shaw
🍎: Nic Petan#10WAGROWN | #SJvsIA pic.twitter.com/jlAA8Pzjju— Iowa Wild (@IAWild) October 15, 2022
What Shaw Brings
It is hoped that the 2021-22 season was a sign of what’s to come for Shaw. He suited up in 62 games for Iowa, hitting career-highs in goals (19), assists (33), and points (52). There is no question that he has the offensive instincts to be a productive force in the NHL.
His real strength is his skating ability. Shaw has an explosive first step, getting up to high speed at a moment’s notice. He also has great edge work, moving well in tight spaces to create more room for himself and his linemates.
The Minnesota lineup can always use more speed throughout. Shaw’s potential can see him firmly entrenched in the middle six of the lineup. Given the need for offense in the wake of Fiala’s departure, there is only room for young players to make their mark.
Shaw is likely going to be given time in the bottom six to start. That is especially true given where Boldy’s production is so far and the hope that newcomer Sam Steel can live up to his potential now that he finally has a chance to play.
Mason Shaw is back with the Wild! But who’s out of the lineup? https://t.co/zaFIcnIlxR
— Hockey Wilderness (@hockeywildernes) October 16, 2022
Final Thoughts
Shaw can make the most of his opportunity by being a spark plug for one of the bottom lines. His speed can become an asset, pressuring defenders on the forecheck and creating offense in lesser opportunities.
He will just have to stay healthy but he could start to carve himself out a nice little chunk of NHL life.
Making his season debut against Colorado tonight, Mason Shaw meets with @Gorgamatic21 on @BallySportsNOR during the second intermission. pic.twitter.com/KDVmBIVU3W
— Minnesota Wild PR (@mnwildPR) October 18, 2022
Credits on Featured Image: Flickr/AHL Iowa Wild San Antonio Rampage Hockey/Photo: Darren Abate
