If there's one thing the Toronto Maple Leafs are constantly criticized for, it's their defensive structure. Whether it's that they can't defend or their defenders don't contribute enough on the ice, there's always something that the fanbase is dissatisfied with. An interesting stat has been released that can certainly, debunk that argument and show the Buds do have an amazingly well rounded team. Especially their defense corps.
Via MoneyPuck.com, the Leafs had four defensive pairings in the top twelve in expected goals for percentage last season. The big eye popper is in three of those four pairings, Rasmus Sandin and Timothy Liljegren's names pop up twice. That is definitely something to be excited about, considering both those players are still developing their skills and are under the ages of 25.
This is a pleasant surprise for Leaf fans and it shows the strong possession game the young Leafs defenders have been playing. Now, there is always room for improvement but the fact our young up-and-coming defenders are among the league leaders in expected goals for is definitely something to be happy about and something that could lead to success when it matters most - in the postseason. Unfortunately, Sandin was injured and didn't have time to make it back before the start of the playoffs last season and Liljegren saw just two games of action against Tampa.. however, another year of development should only make these two young studs more comfortable playing at the highest level.
This year will definitely be a big jump in Sandin and Lilijegren's developments because they're both likely going to have bigger roles on the team and it will be interesting to see how they respond to that. Hopefully they can build on this already impressive stat and, turn into elite defenceman for the Buds to help them get over their first round hump.
