It is hard to find someone to compare him to because he is just now entering his prime. He brings a heap of grit and leadership, but at the same time he is developing his offensive skills. He is probably still only a 20- maybe 30 point kind of guy, but I really like the way Gleason has stepped up.
He always reminded me of a player in the mold of a young Reghyr or Chris Phillips. Not quite as good defensively as those guys yet, but he is younger. But to counter that he's better offensively and we're seeing it this year, not that he's got a ton in that dept but he's got the edge on those guys for sure. He's still pretty uncomfortable handling and skating with the puck but he knows his limitations and doesn't make dumb plays while breaking out and in the offensive zone. Plus he's got more of a nasty streak.
In short, we're delighted with Gleason. There was so much heat over that trade and everyone was saying the Canes got ripped. Sure Johnson has more potential but as to date, Gleason is by far the better defender right now. I wouldn't take back that trade if I could. Factor in all the JJ and co. drama and it's a no brainer. I don't care about Burke and his Olympic team. Timmy should have been on there over JJ, Komisarek and arguably Orpik. Although my hate for Orpik is probably blinding me on that one a bit.
