Brandon Saad, Chicago Blackhawks
Brandon Saad had a very interesting rookie season, as he found himself playing on a line with Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, arguably two of the top offensive forwards in the NHL. Spending most of his time with that line, Saad finished the season with 27 points (10 points, 17 assists) in 46 games. The most glaring stat is the +17 rating, which was obviously inflated by his linemates’ offensive prowess. Saad was able to hold his own with high expectations, and like Gallagher, was a big part of his teams’ success in the shortened season.