[Tilley]

Breen was very consistent during the two games vs Charlotte. He played a very simple game, either clearing the puck off the glass or getting it to a forward to clear the defensive zone. I noticed Charlotte was particularly physical with him, always finishing their checks on him more so than any of the other defensemen. This may have been to get him frustrated and have him retaliate or perhaps to wear him down. It might also be that he was the only one they could get a body on since Wilson and Connelly (the two primary puck-handling dmen) are very elusive.

Offensively he didn't offer much. Kept the puck in the zone, put a couple shots on net, but really was never a threat. I wasn't expecting a lot from him in the offensive zone as I view him as a shut down guy. He is a bit of a security blanket for Wilson as he allows Wilson to take more chances while he stays back.

With only a two game sample it's hard to get a good read on his overall prospects. He wasn't ready for a call up this year and might not be next year. He needs to continue to work on his skating (it is serviceable now) and decision making in his own zone. He's a guy that might make a bottom pairing in the NHL or be the 7/8th guy on the depth chart.

As I indicated in previous posts, it's hard to evaluate the dmen since they play such a simple game and the second game was a blow out. With an influx of defensemen joining the Heat next year (Lamb, Leach, Martin) I think you'll see a more active and mobile defensive group. Breen will likely remain in the top 4 for the Heat being paired with a more offensive dman similarly to this year.