i still am a bit concerned of this top-pair for the long run this year, really this team defensively as a whole. samberg also didn't look good this game either. no one really looks good in a game you get out-shot 44-19 though, but thought samberg should've at least been a bit more steady given who the much maligned alternative is. stanley did play relatively well the game prior.
I've had concerns about our blueline for a while now - we don't defend very well.
There have been a few discussions in the past about what we want from our Dmen - and ironically enough, defense isn't always in the conversation (or dominating the conversation).
We talk about puck movers, transition players, first pass, PP QB's, and offense - we discuss new age defensive schemes, how the defensive game is transitioning to more offense.
We rarely talk about winning puck battles, shutting down cycles, managing net front, and the importance of why dmen still need a physical aspect in todays game (to an extent).
If you're losing battles, you're "gifted" offensive dmen will have little opportunity to display their strengths - which are all the things listed above.
The basics of defense has not gone, or evolved, unless you have truly skilled guys back there that are strong on both sides of the puck. We don't have a lot of that.
And I can live with that - work with what you have and build for the future. I think part of that plan is likely dealing with our struggles defending as a priority. Hopefully at some point, we will have the talent to start talking about all the great offensive things we'd like to see. Until then, we need to convince out current line up to also concentrate on being responsible defensively. That can be a much harder sell than asking them to be more offensive - mainly because a few of these guys do not have the skill set or lack the physical edge needed - hopefully they can learn.
And BTW, that is why Stan is being provided the "unearned" opportunity to stay in the line up - he gets it.
He may not be the most physical 6.7 player or the most talented in the league (understatement) but he works on that part of his game and is doing his best to bring that edge. The guys he is playing ahead of, are not bringing that part of the game - at least not at a level they need to if they want that 6th spot.
I would be remiss if I didn't mention the fact that the forwards also play a significant role - watching LA last night is a good example of what a strong forecheck and neutral zone aggressive coverage brings to puck possession. You also got a taste of that when watching our bottom 6 last night - LA's D looks less than elite defending against that bunch and very elite defending our top 6 who made it very easy to look solid defensively. As many have stated, it's a 5 man effort out there and everything looks much better when you see that effort - we're still sorting that out.
Pushing off your post only because you are discussing D and none of this is intended to conflict with the points you are making
I know his hands aren't great, (nice move on his goal though) but in my eyes, he is one of the few who brings it every game. He is a strong leader.
