Quote:
Originally Posted by howard_the_duck
I just don't think the league values these players (or Ras) as top pairing defenders. It seems pedantic but top pairing defenders should be partner-proof - able to play with anyone and lift their game, not being reliant on their partner to form a top tandem.
Forsling would probably be the exception of what you've listed. I think there's a lot of respect around the league for his game.
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You are describing a 1D. If the cup champs don't have such a guy as a 2D, I think top pairing means something different.
I can think of maybe two teams that have this. And even there, it's a guess (how good is Toews without Makar). You can make a good argument about Dallas since there's evidence of how Harley did without Heiskenan.