Quote:
Originally Posted by JTG
This defensive corps could really use a bruiser.
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Would be nice, but I don't think it's essential. Orpik is a bruiser, and Letang is nasty to play against, and so is Engelland. In that regard, we probably have more overall team toughness on defense than we did when we won the Cup in 2009.
I also think Bortuzzo will become more nasty and physical, as he continues to become more comfortable at the NHL level.
Quote:
Originally Posted by MrBurgundy
Would be nice if Ruopp or Seymour work out.
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Yes it would be great if Ruopp could be the next Engelland, but that will be minimum 3-4 years out. In the meantime, we have Derek Engelland! Seriously, Engelland has been one of our best and most consistent players over last year and the beginning of this one. He is signed cheaply, but he will get paid when his next contract is up. Luckily for us, however, Engo should still be in his prime, yet Martin & Orpik will likely both be gone, and their vacated spots taken over by young guys on ELC's (Dumoulin, Harrington, Morrow, etc). Until Engo's play starts to decline, I'll be happy to keep him on our team due to his unique skillset and versatility. He has even looked good on the PK, has impressive skating, and actually hits the net with his shots.
Regarding future "bruisers" on our D-corps, I think it's clear that Despres can be a physical presence if he remains with our club long-term, and I would also add Samuelsson to that list, who looks to have added a real mean-streak to his game. I really like our mix on the blue-line. We just have to wait for these guys to develop and hope Letang stays healthy to spearhead that group, because as much as I like our overall depth, I don't see a #1 Norris calibre Dman in our group.