The stay at home defenseman has yet to score a goal this season. His drought is currently the longest active goal drought in the NHL. This goes all the way back to New Years Eve of 2022, spanning a total of 113 games, if you include playoff games.
Despite NHL players wanting to light the lamp every season, Brodie has taken a different approach to his difficult situation. He knows that scoring isn't the only way to contribute and as a defensive defenseman, Brodie knows there's value in the role he plays for the Leafs, even if the puck isn't going in for him.
The Maple Leafs defenseman of 900 career NHL games knows his role in the league and with his team. He is more focused on leaning into his strengths than worrying about anything else that's unrelated to the defensive side of the game.
Brodie is putting in the effort to score at least. He has recorded 6 shots each in his last two games. Something he hasn't done since the drought started.
With the NHL playoffs three weeks away, it's been a very positive sign seeing Brodie clean up his game defensively as he continues to work his way back to being a top-four shutdown defenseman. He picked some good timing since his spot isn't secure for the game one opening night roster.
Source: Luke Fox, Sportsnet
Quick Shifts: Why Simon Benoit's deal is more important than you think
POLL | ||
MARS 31 | 363 ANSWERS T.J. Brodie now the owner of the NHL's longest active scoring drought Will the Toronto Maple Leafs start or bench defenseman T.J. Brodie for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs? | ||
Start | 207 | 57 % |
Bench | 156 | 43 % |
List of polls |