Russell benefits from Hartley's system. Every time he and Hamilton are on the ice you can practically throw away any offensive zone time. He is so easily overwhelmed with even a light forecheck and isn't good enough positionally to make up for his lack of size.
Shot blocking is something we all are definitely undervaluing, especially with how much he blocks compared to Bouma who is seemingly always nursing an injury from blocking shots.
I do not see value in a 5.0-5.5 Russell who is in his prime and not improving his composure, probably the most needed skill to have as a 30 year old defenseman.
If he is valued around the league as Bob says, the time is now to trade him. Great depth piece for a team looking for an added weapon (shot blocking) going into the playoffs.
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