There is no question that the Olympics provide more than just a scheduling interruption to the NHL and it’s players. With 105 players from the National Hockey League joining the 12 nations in Sochi next month, the intensity level jumps from midseason to playoff level for the 16-day tournament.
We profiled ten forwards to watch yesterday so let’s turn our attention to the blue line and the men who are tasked with slowing down the offense. The bases are covered on almost every contender. There are offensive and defensive minded rear guards that can jump in to the rush, quarterback the power play or regulate in the defensive zone.
The larger international ice surface is the ally to the smooth skaters that glide across the frozen surface. Their speed with and without the puck is almost impossible to counter. Some of the more experienced defensemen may not have the wheels anymore (and in some cases, never did), but are experts at cutting off large sections of the rink with great positioning while providing a strong physical presence.
Erik Karlsson, Sweden
The 2012 Norris Trophy winner is back to full strength after his Achilles injury last season. He can fly up and down the ice and has better hands than 98% of all forwards. He has a deceptively hard shot with pinpoint accuracy and has evolved his game to be more physical on the defensive end. Playing along side Niklas Kronwall on Sweden’s top pairing will ensure that Karlsson is a huge factor at both ends of the ice.
P.K Subban, Canada
Last season’s Norris Trophy king was apparently a late addition to Team Canada, which is wildly confusing. Though there were a couple of other head scratching omissions, leaving Subban at home would have been a colossal mistake. Often scrutinized for his decision-making and confounding turnovers, Subban is the future of the Canadian defense and needs the international stage to get better as a player. He is gifted in every aspect of the game and should shine in Russia.
Andrej Sekera, Slovakia
While all eyes are on the Slovakian man-mountain Zdeno Chara, the Carolina defenseman will be stealing the show on the blue line. Sekera has been having the best season of his career since joining the Canes from Buffalo last summer.
Olli Maatta, Finland
The Pittsburgh Penguins rookie will be playing in his first Olympic games and will make an impact in front of the stingy Finnish goaltenders. Maatta has been a nice surprise for the injury-depleted Pens and will shine for Finland in Sochi.
Oliver Ekman-Larsson, Sweden
The young Swede will take the lead on the second defensive pairing for Team Sweden, but is talented enough to start for any other nation. Larsson has been the best rearguard for the Phoenix Coyotes all year and could really breakout in his Olympic debut.
Ryan Suter, United States
The Minnesota Wild defenseman is a prime example of how the international game plays into his strengths. The smooth-skating puck mover will flourish on the open ice as the top defender for Team America. He will find time on both special teams and probably the top minute grabber for the Americans.
Slava Voynov, Russia
A disappointing start to the season in Los Angeles will be forgotten if Voynov can step up his game in front of his home fans. He has all the talent to be elite but has been a step behind all year. Playing in his first Olympics on home ice could be the spark that gets him going.
Roman Josi, Switzerland
The 2013 MVP of the World Championships for silver medalist Switzerland, Josi will anchor the Olympic effort for the Swiss. He is having his best season to date in Nashville and will be a key to the success of the Swiss in the tournament.
Radko Gudas, Czech Republic
Gudas has been a nice surprise in Tampa Bay, turning his physical game into a complete defensive effort. He is a screaming wrecking ball in the defensive zone and will hit any moving object near his goal. Look for the 23-year old hit man to make the most of his Olympic debut.