5 rankings NHL Network got wrong in Top 20 defensemen list feat. Gustav Forsling

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Aug 29, 2024 02:33 GMT

NHL Network recently published its ranking of the league’s top 20 defensemen. The list features a series of Norris Trophy winners while some potential Norris Trophy candidates round out the list.

But along the way, some rankings raised more than a few eyebrows. Here's a closer look at the five rankings NHL Network got wrong in its top 20 defenseman list.

5 rankings NHL Network got wrong in Top 20 defensemen list

#5. Mattias Ekholm

Ekholm has been one of the league’s top defensemen throughout his career. Since joining the Edmonton Oilers, his overall play has seemingly reached another level.

However, NHL Network ranked Ekholm No. 16 on the list. While that’s a respectable ranking, Ekholm was ranked ahead of Vegas Golden Knights' Noah Hanifin and New Jersey Devils' Dougie Hamilton.

While there’s an argument for Ekholm in the top 20, it’s hard to envision him being better than Hamilton or Hanifin, especially when comparing Ekholm’s overall play.

#4. Mortiz Seider

Seider just managed to make the list at No. 20. However, Seider’s overall dynamic play should place him much higher, say over veterans like Drew Doughty or Zach Werenski.

Perhaps Seider would rank higher if he had a Norris Trophy to his credit. Nevertheless, Seider should arguably rank higher on the list given his overall skill set and his value on an up-and-coming Detroit Red Wings blue line.

#3. Noah Dobson

New York Islanders’ No. 1 blueliner Noah Dobson was ranked No. 15. While Dobson certainly is a top 15 NHL defenseman, it’s tough to place other rearguards like Jaccob Slavin or Josh Morrissey ahead of him.

In particular, the Blue Jackets’ Zach Werenski who ranked ahead of Dobson, hasn’t shown the type of impact Dobson has had on his team.

Like Seider, Dobson’s lack of a major award could be part of the reason for his lower ranking. As such, if and when he wins a major award, like a Norris Trophy, his ranking could climb significantly.

#2. Rasmus Dahlin

While it’s not surprising to find Dahlin on the list, it’s mildly surprising to see him out of the top ten. Considering some of the names in the top 10, an argument could be made for Dahlin’s inclusion in the top half of the rankings.

If Dahlin has another good season, he should crack the top 10 in next year’s rankings.

#1. Gustav Forsling

There’s no question that Forsling is a great blue liner. However, his ranking at No. 6 has raised some questions. In particular, placing Forsling above other blueliners such as Adam Fox, Charlie McAvoy or Evan Bouchard is arguably questionable.

Forsling must have a great year this upcoming season to cement himself as a legitimate top 10 rearguard.

What do you think of NHL Network's Top 20 defensemen rankings? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.