Michalek vs Orpik

[OzzyFan]

Who is the better overall d-man going into next season? Zybnek Michalek or Brooks Orpik?

[MovesLikeJagr68]

Now that he's back with Phoenix, I expect Z to get back into his good form. If he was still on Pittsburgh I'd say Orpik for sure. I think each of these guys will find new responsibilities this/next season, as Z will be back playing 'his' system, and Orpik may get a reduced role so I'll have to see how each handle this.

[bp spec]

I think it'll be Michalek.

[Izzy Mandelbaum]

Michalek fairly easily

[drmagg]

Zybnek Michalek for his badass name.

[tony d]

Orpik

[Habs 4 Life]

Close but Brooks Orpik

[Darcy Regier]

Phoenix stole Michalek from Pittsburgh, I will take Michalek because he is back in Phoenix.

[Carlzner]

Michalek.

[ottawa]

Orpik, AIC

[wej20]

Hard to say, both had very ordinary years in 11-12. Michalek should do well being back in Tippet's system.

[Tasty Biscuits]

Michalek will look better.

[dr robbie]

Very curious to see how they play out. If I had to pick one at this point, it would be Michalek, just because he's got to prove something. Orpik has the potential, but he's gonna have to up his game a notch to look better IMO.

[gifted88]

Zybnek Michalek is better all-around I think, should have a solid year when/if it gets going again.

[Mystlyfe]

Took Michalek, but it really just depends on what type of play you need out of your defensemen.

[Luigi Lemieux]

Originally Posted by Darcy Regier

Phoenix stole Michalek from Pittsburgh, I will take Michalek because he is back in Phoenix.

Michalek is a good player but he needs to be somewhat insulated. He was excellent when Pittsburgh played a conservative game (when Sid and Malkin went down for the year), but when they opened it up last year he was exposed. He's a good fit for Phoenix and Orpik is a good fit for Pittsburgh. I'd rather have Orpik.