NHL Network analyst defends heavily scrutinized Top 20 NHL Defensemen rankings

By Abhishek Dilta

Modified Aug 30, 2024 03:34 GMT

NHL Network analyst Jason Demers recently found himself in the spotlight after the network's Top 20 NHL Defensemen Right Now rankings drew significant criticism from fans.

Many took to social media to express their discontent with the rankings, sparking heated debates across the hockey community. To clarify his perspective, Demmers tweeted in defense of the list, acknowledging the inherent subjectivity in such rankings.

Demers said on X/Twitter:

"No one’s list is perfect certainly not mine but subjectively this is what I have and my criteria for best defenseman is who I think gives a team the best chance to win a cup this year!! Numbers 2-5 I consider all equal just matter of your preference. d partner matters."

Demers underscored the role of defensive partners in shaping a defenseman's effectiveness. He noted that a player's performance cannot be viewed in isolation, as the dynamics of team play significantly impact individual contributions.

Colorado Avalance star Cale Makar topped the rankings for the second consecutive year. Meanwhile, Quinn Hughes of the Vancouver Canucks' Quinn Hughes and Tampa Bay Lightning's Victor Hedman came second and third, respectively, on the NHL Network's Top 20 Defensemen Right Now list.

NHL fans react to Jason Demers defending Top 20 Defensemen rankings

Fans on X didn't hold back in expressing their opinions after Jason Demers defended the NHL: Network's Top 20 Defenseman list.

One fan said:

"I need you to understand that Hedman is well past his prime. Like he is one of the worst defensive players in the league since multiple injuries and surgeries. Not even close to the same player now."

Another fan chimed in about Adm Fox's ranking on the list:

"Hey Jason, great work on the network but no way Adam Fox is #9 has to be in top 5 and I'm an Isles fan lol."

Here are some more reactions from fans on X:

"Adam Fox, Norris Trophy winner. 2 ECF since his rookie year and was injured all year, and reinjured in RD1 . That guy is not 8 or 9. Sorry but. That's ridiculous. It's not a D-pair list. Lost all credibility," a fan wrote.

"Hedman top 5 in 2024 is crazy," another commented.

"Poor Rasmus Dahlin. Put him on Edmonton and they are cup champs and he’s in everyone’s top 3," one fan added.

What are your thoughts on the NHL Network's Top 20 Defensemen Right Now list? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.