wittcap79 said:pghbuccos said:I'm confused as to why people are choosing Mike Green for their d-man.
don't get me wrong he is a good offensive defenseman but if you are starting a franchise wouldn't you want a d-man that can play defense?
Because it's a tired meme that doesn't hold water.
His defensive value comes from his speed and ability to read the play, he was actually known as a hitter in juniors as well, though that doesn't fit into his role on the Caps. He skates well enough to make up for his mistakes and his GVT was second for all defenseman .4 points behind Keith and a whole 3 points higher than Doughty. His GAON is actually better than Keith's 2.37-2.77 and his ON+/- completely dwarfs Keith's 2.09-0.41.
That being said, Keith plays the tougher minutes against better opposition and is clearly more defensively responsible. But this isn't 1995 and defenseman are allowed to play the entire length of the ice again...thank god. Honestly, I'd take either. That being said, my list...
Stamkos
Green
Vokoun - (for a vet)
Neuvirth - (for a rook)
personally I wouldn't put Green in my Top 25 defensen in the NHL but too each his own I guess.