I'm one of those fans that isn't convinced getting a better Dman or two will fix the issues with this team. I think it's a lot bigger than that. It'll cover it up for awhile but it isn't the number one issue..
Most times the reason the defense looks so bad is the so-called offensive players don't have a clue how to play NHL hockey. The D are sitting back there with the puck and I swear to god, they have next to nothing for options. Everyone would have to be a Keith or Doughty in order to get it to the forwards. It seems the forwards have no idea how to get open, what hand to take a pass on, how to use the boards, what spacing they need,,and so on. When the D get boxed in, the forwards get in poor positions, don't take the man(too far away), wildly swinging at pucks instead of taking the man. This happens pretty much every game and through the majority of the game itself.
A really good #1 or #2 D will help but, imo, it won't lead the team much further until they fix the proper mix and structure of the team. Top D and G will mask the issues for awhile but they'll always show back up.
Even guys like Hall, Ebs, RNH, etc., don't seem to know how to play a structured game, don't cut off the paths of players, don't get in their 'perimeter' when they should, too far from the player(always late), don't finish checks..3 players all swinging at a puck while the opposing player get's open for a pass..and so on.
Frustrating as hell that D won't fix..at least long term.
Ok..rant over. Carry on..
