In the latest NHL Network ranking of the top 20 players of the day, Jaccob Slavin was positioned as the eighth-best defenseman. This marks an improvement from around the same time last year when he was placed 13th, moving up five spots. Slavin’s performance for Team USA in the 4 Nations faceoff highlights his reputation as one of the NHL’s most effective shutdown defensemen, largely due to his contributions with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Hurricanes General Manager Eric Talski commented, “Jaccob might be the best defender in the NHL. He has firmly established himself as one of the finest players to ever wear a Hurricanes jersey. He’s been a vital leader on and off the ice, and securing his long-term future in Carolina was our top priority.”
Last season, the 31-year-old defenseman averaged 21 minutes and 34 seconds of ice time per game, recording six goals, 21 assists, and 27 points over 80 games.
Among the defensemen ranked ahead of Slavin are Cale Makar, Quinn Hughes, Zach Werenski, Miro Heiskanen, Victor Hedman, Josh Morrissey, and Rasmus Dahlin.
Fan Take: Slavin’s rise in the rankings underscores the increasing recognition of his defensive prowess in a league largely driven by offensive stats. For hockey enthusiasts, it signals that elite defensive play remains crucial, bolstering the importance of well-rounded players in the evolution of the sport.
