Volchenkov's games played over the same time isn't even close. Volchenkov averages 13 missed games a season.
75
78
67
68
64
57 1st NJ year
72
Girardi has missed 3 games in 7 seasons!!! That's pretty impressive for his style as you say. Agree to disagree that Girardi is going to suddenly start breaking down. If it happens, it appears it'll be a fluke injury.
He is aging. I'd say there is a risk. But Girardi is more durable than Volchenkov.
But other factors are there too. He is in his prime and should want a maximum contract. That plus McPhee equals no deal.