[Huntingwhale]

Good analysis. What I find intriguing about the Gio/Hamilton pairing is that Hartley tried it last year and it just didn't work out. Similar to early this season, we all wanted Brodano reunited and left alone.

I think the maturation in Hamilton's game has really been a big catalyst for turning the team's fortunes around. Only on the ice for 2 goals against in the last 13 games? Insane. He also appears to be developing a more physical edge to his game. He was never as soft as some people said he was. But he's now slowly but surely developing that physical game as another weapon in his arsenal. I've noticed when he goes into the corners behind a forward, the forward will often chip it away to avoid the hit. IMO that's exactly how you want opposing forward to react when a 6'5'' defenceman is coming at you. Panic.

Also, Hamilton is an open and shut case about why you don't panic trade like some on CP wanted and get rid of a 23 year old RHD simply for a shakeup. His contract looks better each and every game. He's also a perfect example of maybe overpaying for a young player coming off his entry level deal, but hoping it's the last half where it becomes a bargain. Hamilton appears well on pace to be that bargain. Perhaps he already is.