On Wednesday, NHL Network released its annual Top 20 Defensemen list. For the first time in his career, Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Shea Theodore made an appearance. NHL Network’s rankings have been frequently criticized; however, they certainly got this right.
A former first-round pick, Shea Theodore just finished his 10th NHL season. In 2017, the Golden Knights acquired him from the Anaheim Ducks for Expansion Draft considerations. The Original Misfit, 22 at the time, immediately flourished with the Golden Knights. Theodore has steadily improved ever since and shows no signs of stopping.
Theodore really came into his own last season, scoring seven goals and 57 points. He also quarterbacked one of the best power play units in the league and recorded 19 power play points.
Amidst a career year, Team Canada selected Theodore for their 4 Nations Face-Off roster. Unfortunately, his season was cut short due to an injury he suffered in the first 4 Nations game. Theodore returned at the end of March and recorded nine points over the last 12 games of the season.
Despite missing 15 games, Theodore set franchise highs for both points and assists by a defenseman in a single season with 50 assists and 57points. Alex Pietrangelo previously held the record with 43 assists and 54 points in 73 games during the 2022-23 season.
Even with the missed time, his 50 assists were good for 10th among defensemen last year. It’s hard not to imagine the season a healthy Theodore would have had. Had he played a full 82 games, could he have challenged for a top 10 spot on NHL Network’s list?
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