Defensemen

TODAY IN THE LEAGUE, WE TEND TO FORGET ABOUT THE UNSUNG HEROES KNOWN AS DEFENSEMEN.  THE FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF SOME OF THE LEAGUE'S TOP DEFENSE.
Nicklas Lidstrom: Nicklas Lidstrom has been the Norris Trophy winner for the past two years.  Although his size is not that big, he makes up for it in speed.
Al Macinnis: Al Macinnis is a veteran defenseman who has been around the league for numerous seasons.  He may not be the fastest skater but he has the hardest shot in the league and that more than makes up for his lack of speed.
Scott Niedermayer: Scott Niedermayer is a great skater and defenseman. He can move the puck and make good defensive plays which makes him a scoring threat.
Eric Brewer: Although he is still young, Eric Brewer is showing signs of being a superstar.  He has good skill and smarts which make him a premier defenseman.
Ed Jovanovski: Ed Jovanovski is one of the best defensive skaters in the league.  He is known for jumping up into the rush and contributing offensively.
Derian Hatcher: Derian Hatcher is captain of the Dallas Stars and for good reason.  He is their top defenseman because of his solid physical play.
Rob Blake: Rob Blake has been and still is one of the premier defensemen in the league.  His shot and solid hits make him a feared player in the league.
Zdeno Chara: At 6'9, Zdeno Chara is the tallest player in the NHL.  He uses his height to his advantage as he forces players away from his net and out of shooting position.