| Hannan knows that just like high-end goaltenders need effective defensemen, the same is true on the other end. "We've got great goaltending," said Hannan. "We know if we make a mistake, they are big back there." When it is crunch time, and the opposing club is pressing, that is when Hannan and McLaren are at their best. "In the last two minutes, those two are always out there to save the lead," said Ehrhoff. The Sharks high-scoring forwards know what they have backing them up. "They're huge," said Patrick Marleau alluding to the confidence the forwards have in attempting to make plays knowing who is behind them. "You don't want to hang Big Mac or Hannan out to dry, but you know they'll be doing their job." In the room the two aren't as quiet as their on-ice talents may make one believe. "They definitely are two of the biggest leaders in the locker room, especially with the D-men," said Marleau. "You always see them talking with the younger D, seeing how things are going. They see things I don't and are huge factors in our room." The younger blueliners appreciate what they have in Hannan and McLaren, Ehrhoff, who transitioned into an NHL regular primarily under McLaren's watch knows their importance. "Kyle is like a coach on the ice and helps with the mental aspects," said Ehrhoff. "Hannan helps me with things like where to be on the penalty kill," said Vlasic. "All the little things. Off the ice he chirps me pretty good." Vlasic, the elder of four Vlasic boys, acknowledged it was a bit like being the younger sibling for once. The old adage for all sports holds true in hockey as well-defense wins championships-and the Sharks should be in good shape when the postseason rolls around. "Every defenseman enjoys being trusted at the key time to do their job," said Hannan. "You look forward to the times in the playoffs when you're out their five-on-five or in a penalty-killing situation and they need a goal." For in the postseason, it is penalty killing and defense which will eventually lead to the Sharks first Stanley Cup Championship. "Defense basically wins and loses games, especially in the playoffs," said Marleau. |