As it stands right now, on paper the Leafs have one the most well-rounded blue lines in the league. Whether they can play like one is a completely different question.
If we take a closer look at their blue line we can see that it is very complete. It has a mix of offensive ability, responsible defensive assets, and a physical presence that could potentially be one of the best in the league.
Offensive Ability
Although the Leafs may not have had some of the most offensive production from the back end this season, they have a number of players capable of producing.
Since the lockout, Tomas Kaberle has been one of the premiere puck-moving defensemen in the game, averaging just over 50 points a season since 2004.
Dion Phaneuf also has been one of the top overall defensemen in the league. He was nominated for the Calder Trophy as top rookie with Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin in 2005-06 and was nominated for the Norris Trophy as the league's top defenseman in 2007-08.
Phaneuf also has that hard shot that the Leafs have missed from the back end since the departure of Bryan McCabe to Florida.< ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Neil Grewal
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