Modifié 19 janv. 2023 à 6 h 55
Quoting: MitchJr
Hammer wise - that is some seriously flawed logic. Sandin (& Liligren) arguably has the best numbers in our d corps (offensive, xGF% and defensive, xGA ). I watch the games and don’t see him as an issue at all; he’s not big but he’s strong and plays physical and he’s extremely smart and great puck mover and on a great contract. 100% against moving him.
And Engvall - while frustrating - is big can skate and is posting elite defensive numbers. Him, ZAR and Kampf would be an elite shutdown line
Again, not saying engavll isnt a good depth player, but as a 2.25mil expiring UFA what value does he have to the Flyers? He has none.
I dont disagree that some of his numbers are good or that hes still young and has a good contract.
Sandin, again in the simplest terms, has not put up solid/above average puck rushing numbers/production in his 2 abbreviated NHL seasons on a team that is near tops in offense. Even with brodie, benn, muzzin, reilly missing time, sandin is still at 16 minutes a game. I'm not saying he isn;t a solid defender, but I am saying IMO that an upgrade on defense is probably there. Im not arguing that hes playing more "sheltered" minutes, some may make that case, but my simple point is that I dont and certainly on Keefes TOI, see an elevation of his game that makes him a top 4 dman now or possibly into the future. Liljegren = definitely
Its not all sandin, its also the entire makeup, age, talent, abilities of the entire Leafs defense that works against Sandin. I am not sold on Murray/Samsonov in net and therefore an upgrade on defense that works now and moving forward is where Id start. IMO, The age/contract lengths of benn, muzzin, brodie, holl dont help their value or long term ability to make a better defense. IMO, Reilly, liljegren, timmins are the puck rushers we need to partner, to release them to elevate their games. The reason Holl gets 20 mins a game is that hes a stay at home, crease clearer. Giordano has been above average because hes solid two ways but is solid in front of his own net.
The one guy on defense who has some value (both in possible untapped potential AND contract, that stands out for upgrade asnd provides a better balance on defense is Sandin. (I just dont know if there is untapped potential or san elevated game for him, theres a reason that through the injuries theyre still playing him in 3rd pair minutes)