The Matchup: Jeremy Roenick vs. Brendan Shanahan

The Question: Who is more dangerous?

Jeremy Roenick

Brendan Shanahan

So different but so close
Before having to choose one, it must be pointed out that Jeremy Roenick and Brendan Shanahan would be great on the same line together. They have two contrasting styles and would complement each other; Shanahan can get open in the offensive end, and Roenick carries the puck well and would be able to find Shanahan with a pass to set up a good shot.

Given good health, both players should reach the 1,000-point mark next season: Shanahan, in his 14th season, has 891 points, and Roenick, in his 13th, has 890. I would take either player on my team, but which one is more dangerous?

Roenick, the leading scorer for the red-shot Phoenix Coyotes, likes to go coast-to-coast with the puck. He loves to come back into his own end and take it all the way to the other side. With his speed and moves, Roenick wants to attack with the puck. He is at his best when flying up ice almost out of control.

Over the last three or four years, it has been more difficult for him because teams are playing so tight defensively. Roenick has been outspoken against the trap because it leaves him no room in the neutral zone. Hooking and holding really affect his game.

Nevertheless, Roenick is a dynamic player with incredible speed. He has that great determination when he has the puck. You can see it in his face. Once he gets the puck, he's going all the way to the net. Roenick has the ability to make the big shot or dish it off, making the spectacular pass. His moves are as good as any player in the league.

Shanahan, unlike Roenick, is a give-and-go player instead of a puck carrier. He is most effective for the Red Wings when he is stationed inside the blue line in the offensive end. Shanahan needs to work with players who can get him the puck because he knows how to get open.

One of his strongest suits, something he learned from Brett Hull when they were teammates in St. Louis, is disappearing for a second or two and making opposing players forget about him. He then reappears in the scoring area. If he gets the puck, he won't miss very often. Shanahan has scoring touch and flair with a great, heavy shot and a quick release.

On top of that, he is tough and has a mean streak. Shanahan, at 215 pounds, knows how to create a lot of room for himself. He makes defensemen extremely nervous in their own zone because he can either run over them in the corner or disappear from them. The next thing they know, Shanahan will get the puck and leave them with no second chance.

But if I would have to pick -- Roenick is the most dangerous of the two. With his speed and puck-carrying ability, he might be a more well-rounded player. He is capable of creating chances on his own, while Shanahan needs help in the offensive zone to be at his best.

Brian Engblom is a color commentator and analyst for ESPN's NHL coverage. He played 11 seasons in the NHL.