Franchise Defenseman: Dion Phaneuf (Calgary Flames)

If ever the distinction between “best” and “prototypical” is needed, it’s here. Phaneuf isn’t the best defenseman in the league – that’s an honor that clearly goes to Nicklas Lidstrom. But a big body who’s not afraid of making contact, is one of the best hitters in the league, has a bomb of a shot from the point and plays top-tier defense is what most hockey fans think of when they think of number one defenseman.

Other considered: Nicklas Lidstrom, Chris Pronger, Scott Niedermayer, Jay Bouwmeester

Number Two Defenseman: Chris Phillips (Ottawa Senators)

Like second line forwards there’s not a lot that is set in stone when it comes to discussing number two defensemen, a role that can be filled by a good all-around around player who doesn’t quite have enough skill to be a number one, a stay-at-home defenseman who moves the puck well, or a powerplay quarterback. Since I’m doing this by pairing I thus turned my focus to blueliners who could play a defensive role well enough to let their partner get in to the offensive player, but who have enough offensive talent to contribute on occasion. Phillips is such a player, fast enough to match up with the league’s better forwards, a solid hitter and an excellent shot blocker who also has enough offensive awareness to chip in. Though not a great playmaker, Phillips does have a hard shot and, just as importantly, a very good sense of when to jump into the play.

Others considered: Braydon Coburn, Brendan Witt

Hey, what can I say, I’m a busy guy. But here’s all you really need to know going into tonight’s game. This is the guy the Capitals (especially Ovechkin) will have to deal with and the Flames player to watch:

Of course, past instances may lead one to believe Ovechkin is up for the challenge:

Let me say first of all that Dion Phaneuf is one of my favorite players (along with Iginla, Ovechkin, Halpern and a few others), and the second biggest reason I think Don Waddell ought to be fired is that he drafted Braydon Coburn ahead of Phaneuf (the biggest being the United States Olympic debacle in Turino). But this video is just so funny I feel I have to share it with everyone.

Oh, and it’s even better with the sound on.