Habs’ defense ranks as big wild card

James O'Brien

Jul 16, 2012, 9:48 PM EDT

1 Comment

AP

When the Montreal Canadiens have been at their best lately, it’s been thanks to timely offense, great goaltending and a suffocating defense. With all apologies to Francis Bouillon “Cube,” they haven’t added much to their blueline, yet their group could be impressive if enough toss-ups go their way.

1. Can Andrei Markov get healthy?

The Canadiens took a leap of faith when they handed Andrei Markov a three-year contract in the 2011 off-season. That gamble went splat as he went from seven games played in 2010-11 to 13 in 2011-12. By that pattern (just 20 games in the last two seasons), one would say Markov’s knee is done.

There is one pattern that’s a bit more heartening, though. All 13 of his games last season came after March 10, so maybe he’s turned the corner? If so, the Habs would get one of the better power play weapons in the NHL (not to mention a solid minute-eater) back on their blueline.

2. Will P.K. Subban progress?

Despite receiving two more minutes per game and playing in four extra contests, Subban scored half as many goals (14 to 7) and two fewer points (38 to 36) last season compared to his impressive first full campaign. He also drew attention for bickering with teammates and coaches – whether that was overblown or not.

That being said, he faced a much greater burden last season and also had inferior luck (his shooting percentage went from 7.1 to 3.4). It’s reasonable to expect more promise – and some extra positive bounces – from Subban, especially if Markov takes some of the heat off of him.

3. Can Tomas Kaberle regain his game?

Few defensemen have seen their stock plummet quite like the former perennial Toronto Maple Leafs trade rumor magnet. Still, his numbers looked a bit like the old Kaberle once he landed in Montreal; he scored 22 points in 43 games, almost exactly a point every two contests. Perhaps this fresh start will pay off, as he could make sweet PP music with Markov and/or Subban if things go well.

The rest

This could be a very deep defense if Markov stays healthy and Kaberle proves semi-useful. Raphael Diaz showed signs of promise while Josh Gorges is a popular shutdown man (or at least was with the old regime). The rest of the guys range from intriguing up-and-comers to respectable depth guys.