In this edition of the hotstove, we share our thoughts on which defenders contending teams should prioritize at the deadline.
Todd Cordell
I really like Brenden Dillon as a rental target.
I’m sure he’ll draw plenty of interest – physical defensemen always do at the deadline – but rightfully so. Dillon is an awesome defender.
He ranks 1st or 2nd on the Sharks in almost every single relevant 5v5 defensive metric since the beginning of last season. He’s also an exceptional penalty killer.
Dillon is one of the few physical players deemed ‘tough to play against’ who actually *is* tough to play against.
Simply put, he’s mean and he gets results. I’d want him on my team for a playoff run.
James Tanner If Montreal is willing to throw in the towel and trade their players to supplement their bright future and go for a higher pick in the summer, the player I would target is Jeff Petry.
Petry basically brings everything a team would be looking for - he's right handed, he's got size, he can score (on pace for his third straight 40 point season) and he's good defensively.
He has a no movement clause, so he might not choose to be traded, but assuming he would, he's got a very reasonable contract for next season ($5.5) and then he's a UFA. He is 32, but he should provide great value for the rest of his deal. Probably wouldn't be a part of Montreal's future so he's likely to be available if he wants to be.
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