Every single defenseman on the team right now is playing well in both ends of the ice. There is always a lot of talk about forwards needing to play a 200' game, but the same is true for defensemen. Even Gudbranson and Zadorov, who are defensive guys first, have not been afraid to shoot or jump into the play.
With that in mind, I would say that the defense now is better than 2004. The blue line back then was not quite as well rounded. I mean it was decent but not nearly as versatile and didn't add a lot of offense. In 2004, Leopold was the only defenseman to get more than 20 points (granted, Lydman would have if he stayed healthy).
Right now over 48 games, there are already 3 defensemen with more than 20 points (Tanev close at 18) and every one of the regular top 6 are on pace to get or exceed 20 points while still minding defense.
(Ok, Gudbranson is technically on pace for 19 points, but seems to be producing more now than at the beginning of the season, so I think he will reach 20 points)
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"A pessimist thinks things can't get any worse. An optimist knows they can."
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