While you can use the numbers as evidence support, results speak volumes. Quite simply the defense benefits from the overall aggressive backchecking done by the offense. When you have all 5 players running down and backchecking it is a lot easier to overlook the defense.

Quite simple, Philly exploited the lack of puck moving ability by the defense. The aggressive forecheck put the pressure on the defense, causing a system collapse. This also filtered to the lack of effective breakouts, often get stopped in the neutral zone or even their own end. This is the same defense that has gotten exploited each year in the playoffs since the departure of some of the more solid names.

Look at the top teams in overall defense. You have a few that benefit from the conservative system – NJ, BOS, PHX

However you also have others like CHI which have an open system and low goals. Just look at Chicago.

Keith, Campbell, Seabrook, Hjarlmasson, Barker, Hendry

Where do you think the would fit in NJ….I think easily the top 2 defense pairs. You could even make a case that 2-3 are better than Paul Martin.

I guess a better question would be …Game is on the line, the opponent is throwing its top lines out at you…..Who would throw out there to shut them down.

How many names and pair would you throw out before you hit a NJ player.

Or Reverse is….who would you want out leading the offensive attack.

Hell, I’m sure a few people are in fantasy leagues, who did you choose 1st, 2nd, 3rd.