When the Washington Capitals managed to snag the prize of the 2017 trade deadline, Kevin Shattenkirk, it was pretty clear the result was going to be increased offensive dominance - a frightening prospect given the Capitals were already one of the top offensive clubs in the game.
But there are never any guarantees when adding a new name to a roster - especially on the blue line, where a change in address usually brings a significant change in approach as well, as each team utilizes an array of varied defensive schemes.
Now, 15 games into Shattenkirk's tenure in Washington, it's clear the move has paid off.
Since joining the likes of Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom, Shattenkirk has posted 12 assists through 15 games. He's been particularly hot as of late, registering eight points over his past seven appearances.
And while he's certainly benefiting from suiting up alongside Washington's elite scorers, Shattenkirk is doing his part as well. Nine of those assists have been primary helpers, with only three secondary assists - where Shattenkirk might have had less impact - rounding out the total.
It may be a small sample size, but that sample is all the more important given the time of year. With the postseason just a handful of games away, and with Washington once again facing Stanley Cup-or-bust pressure, the fact that Shattenkirk has fit in seamlessly is key.
He's actually done more than just fit in, however, as the veteran rearguard is registering points at a career-high clip. His 0.79 points per game has matched his career-best scoring pace from 2014-15.
Whether he could sustain that pace over a full season in Washington is irrelevant at the moment. All that matters now - with his club loading up for a shot at redemption - is that Shattenkirk is rolling. And if he can keep it going once the schedule transitions from regular season to post, then the ever-dangerous Capitals will be all the more lethal as they begin their march.
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