Vegas Golden Knights First Half Report Cards: Defensemen

4 of 8

LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 17: Brayden McNabb #3 of the Vegas Golden Knights shoots the puck against the Florida Panthers during the game at T-Mobile Arena on December 17, 2017, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/NHLI via Getty Images) /

During the season, the Knights extended pending free agent Brayden McNabb for four more years. McNabb is a stay at home defenseman and brings very little offense to the table. He’s usually a reliable player, but he does have his moments where he will make a mistake or two.

He’s a character guy and leads by example. The Davidson, Saskatchewan native only has eight points to his name this year. However, he earned a team-best +16 rating among defenseman. He showed his defensive partner Nate Schmidt the ropes and has been a great teacher up to this point.

McNabb’s physical presence is terrifying to his opponents. He makes some mean, nasty but clean hockey hits and isn’t afraid to drop the gloves which you have to like if you’re a fan of the fisticuffs in hockey.

The 6’4 212 pounder still has a lot left in the tank, and he’s one of the most trustworthy defenders on the team. Gallant uses him in the final minute of games when his club is up by a goal and looking to close it out. He earns a solid grade in my book.

Grade: B

Home/Editorials