Defenseman: B+
Defensively, the team looked shaky to start the season. There was discomfort in protecting the goaltenders from high-danger shots and keeping the puck out of the defensive zone. However, the unit has turned around, becoming more viable as the season progressed.
The Vegas Golden Knights have blocked 672 shots this season, good for ninth in the NHL. They've also been a strong forechecking team with 224 takeaways, 10th in the NHL. Alex Pietrangelo (69 blocked shots, 14 takeaways) has been the key factor in the blue line's play, making them one of the most underrated groups in the league.
Of course, Pietrangelo has also been efficient offensively with 18 assists. Shea Theodore (29 assists, 13 power play assists) has also been a key contributor, quarterbacking the offensive attack and setting up solid rebounds for his teammates. Part of the reason the defensemen get a high grade is their offensive play, where they've contributed significantly to the attack.