That's really pushing it. The whole team has been very poor defensively, and often it seemed the players were out of sync and not in the right position at the right time.
When Franson does stay in position he's a pretty effective defender as he uses his body well and his reach gives him a huge advantage.
'Uses his body well' is pushing it IMO.
I think the team defensive issues stem from the fact that Franson, Gardiner and Ranger are averaging 19-22 minutes each. All three guys, overal, have been unreliable this year, and something's got to give.
Most would, and have been, preaching patience with these three. Separately, that's fine, but when all are counted on to play the minutes they do, it gets tricky. I think one of the three needs to be packaged for a more reliable minute eater. Leafs are wining in spite of their defensive issues, but how sustainable are they?
He way I see it, Gardiner and Ranger have show more over longer periods of continuous play. Franson has show flashes, but no consistency for longer than a game or two at a time. I think Nonis should explore trade options for Franson. Gardiner is younger, and has a more appealing skillet. Ranger hasn't showed much as a leaf as of yet either, but is a veteran who is showing signs of the top 4 Dman that left Tampa. Franson hasn't show much yet to warrant any kind of raise.
(Ya, I know, 9 games. Could be premature to pull the trigger on anything right now, but something to consider shortly if things don't improve in that department.)
