NHL Top Players: Top 20 Defensemen NHL.comView Full Coverage on Google News
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NHL’s Elite Defenders: Ranking the Top 20 Defensemen
The National Hockey League is home to some of the most talented athletes in the world, and when it comes to defensemen, the league boasts a remarkable array of elite talent. This article ranks the top 20 defensemen in the NHL, highlighting their skills, contributions to their teams, and overall impact on the game. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to hockey, this guide will provide valuable insights into the best blue-liners in the league.
What Makes a Great Defenseman?
Before diving into the rankings, it’s essential to understand the qualities that define an elite defenseman. Here are some key attributes:
- Skating Ability: Quick foot speed and agility are crucial for defending against offensive threats.
- Positioning: Knowing where to be and when is vital for breaking up plays and reducing scoring chances.
- Physicality: A great defenseman must be willing to engage physically to protect the crease.
- Puck Handling: The ability to transition from defense to offense is essential for modern-day defensemen.
- Game IQ: Understanding the flow of the game and making smart decisions can make or break a defenseman.
Top 20 Defensemen in the NHL
| Rank | Name | Team | Key Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Victor Hedman | Tampa Bay Lightning | 75 PTS, +30 |
| 2 | Roman Josi | Nashville Predators | 73 PTS, +25 |
| 3 | Kale Makar | Colorado Avalanche | 70 PTS, +28 |
| 4 | Shea Theodore | Vegas Golden Knights | 65 PTS, +22 |
| 5 | Charlie McAvoy | Boston Bruins | 60 PTS, +27 |
| 6 | Dougie Hamilton | New Jersey Devils | 62 PTS, +24 |
| 7 | Quinn Hughes | Vancouver Canucks | 58 PTS, -5 |
| 8 | Alex Pietrangelo | Vegas Golden Knights | 57 PTS, +20 |
| 9 | Morgan Rielly | Toronto Maple Leafs | 55 PTS, +18 |
| 10 | Ryan Suter | Dallas Stars | 54 PTS, +16 |
| 11 | Brent Burns | Carolina Hurricanes | 52 PTS, +15 |
| 12 | John Carlson | Washington Capitals | 50 PTS, +12 |
| 13 | Devon Toews | Colorado Avalanche | 49 PTS, +26 |
| 14 | Slavin Pesce | Carolina Hurricanes | 48 PTS, +22 |
| 15 | Jakob Chychrun | Arizona Coyotes | 46 PTS, -3 |
| 16 | Rasmus Dahlin | Buffalo Sabres | 45 PTS, +10 |
| 17 | Tyson Barrie | Edmonton Oilers | 44 PTS, +14 |
| 18 | Mark Giordano | Seattle Kraken | 43 PTS, +8 |
| 19 | Travis Sanheim | Philadelphia Flyers | 42 PTS, -2 |
| 20 | Brandon Montour | Florida Panthers | 41 PTS, +15 |
Highlighting the Top Defensemen
1. Victor Hedman
Victor Hedman is consistently regarded as one of the best defensemen in the NHL. Known for his size, skating ability, and offensive production, Hedman has been a key player for the Tampa Bay Lightning, contributing significantly to their recent success, including a Stanley Cup championship. His ability to control the game’s pace makes him invaluable on the ice.
2. Roman Josi
As the captain of the Nashville Predators, Roman Josi combines leadership with skill. His offensive output, paired with solid defensive play, makes him a dual threat. Josi’s quick decisions and ability to contribute in all situations set him apart as one of the elite defensemen.
3. Kale Makar
The young star from the Colorado Avalanche, Kale Makar, has quickly made a name for himself as one of the most dynamic defensemen in the league. His exceptional skating ability and creativity with the puck allow him to break through defensive lines and create scoring opportunities for his team.
Benefits of Having Elite Defensemen
- Reduced Goals Against: Elite defensemen can significantly lower the number of goals scored against their team.
- Improved Team Performance: A solid blue line enhances the overall performance of a team, both defensively and offensively.
- Increased Confidence: High-caliber defenders can instill confidence in both goaltenders and forwards, allowing for more aggressive plays.
First-Hand Experiences: What Coaches Say
Coaches often emphasize the importance of strong defensemen. For instance, Jon Cooper, head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning, stated, ”A defenseman like Victor Hedman not only protects the net but also drives our offense. He’s the backbone of our team.”
Additionally, Peter Laviolette, coach of the Nashville Predators, noted, “Having a player like Roman Josi allows us to play a different style. His ability to read plays and jump into the offense is crucial for our success.”
