Why the defensive pairing of Zach Whitecloud and Brayden McNabb is important

Vegas Golden Knights fans don't think much about players like Zach Whitecloud and Brayden McNabb. Instead, they're focused on bigger names such as Jack Eichel, Mark Stone, and Tomas Hertl. Even other players such as Adin Hill and Shea Theodore get some spotlight. It's not easy being on the lower rungs of the lineup.

However, fans should start watching the bottom defensive pairing more. Nothing is more exciting than a big check on an opponent, especially during the Stanley Cup playoffs. Take this classic from McNabb as a perfect example.

The "Original Misfit" has always been a pure defenseman, blocking shots and establishing the forecheck. Last season, he had a career-high in hits (207) and has 1,115 throughout his eight-year tenure with the Golden Knights. There's a good reason why he's stayed with the franchise since its inception.

As for Whitecloud, he also set a career-high in hits last season (129), marking the first time he hit triple-digits in the category. The defenseman also blocks shots, posting a total of 105 in 2023-24. He's shown himself as a classic defenseman, straying away from the heavy offense from today's blue-liners (see Cale Makar and Erik Karlsson).

So why should the fanbase pay more attention to the bottom pairing? What makes them stand out among the other blue-liners? They might not be the most attractive names on the Vegas Golden Knights. However, the pair gets the job done, as you'll see every game.

Why Brayden McNabb and Zach Whitecloud are crucial to the Vegas Golden Knights

One thing Brayden McNabb offers the bottom pairing is veteran experience. He gives Zach Whitecloud more insight into how the NHL level works, helping him coordinate on defense. Whether it's spotting an open man or blocking an incoming shot, the "Misfit" provides helpful guidance on improving on the blue line. That's especially true with plays like this from Whitecloud.

That's an embarrassing misfire from the young defender. He tries finishing the hit on Jay Beagle, only to be turned aside at the last minute. That won't happen with his veteran half working with Whitecloud. He'll guide the Bemidji State alum on properly hitting opponents and finishing his checks.

The pair also acts as a balance, steering the Vegas Golden Knights defensive group from becoming heavily focused on offense. Names like Shea Theodore, Noah Hanifin, and Alex Pietrangelo constitute a solid blue-line faction offensively. However, they would only have Nic Hague as a true defenseman if McNabb and Whitecloud weren't there. Pietrangelo is also a solid defender, despite being 34 years old. How much longer does he have?

The Golden Knights have gotten off to a hot start thanks to a productive top line and improved power play. The offense has turned up the level of play, impressing and overwhelming the competition. However, fans can't forget about Brayden McNabb and Zach Whitecloud, for their roles are more important than people realize.