One Oilers whom has stepped up his offensive production is second year winger Shawn Norrie who was drafted by Edmonton in the sixth round this year. At 6-2/185 his has the size to be an effective third line checker with some offensive capabilities in the Ethan Moreau or Josh Green mold.
In the first 7 games with the Calgary Hitmen of the WHL, he has amassed 3 goals and 4 assists while adding 17 minutes in penalties. Has shown the willingness to fight and play tough along the boards and crash the net with out fear. At this current rate Shawn will score 30 goals and 40 assists with 170 penalty minutes which is a huge increase over last seasons 12 goals and 13 assists and 94 penalty minutes over 67 games.
With the extra playing time in all situations this season an improvement in his offensive and defensive awareness should propel him to top of the scoring leaders on his team. His gritty play and tenacity are a welcome addition to the roster which has a few rookies this year and his style of play and leadership by example are a much needed commodity.
The coaching staff has given him the new responsibilities and he is beginning to flourish and he may become a steal in the draft for the Edmonton Oilers scouting staff if his play continues and he develops into a solid winger at the next level. If he progresses at this pace for the next couple years and models his play after Moreau and Mike Grier it will not be a surprise to see Shawn sporting an Oilers jersey in the near future.
