Expectation: For an aging blueliner, this was supposed to be a season where Phillips could take a step back on the ice and become more of a mentor who plays on the third pairing and not be overtaxed. Still a contributor, but more of a situational presence.
Dec 5, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Ottawa Senators defenseman Chris Phillips (4) skates with the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the first period at Tampa Bay Times Forum. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
In The First Half: With the struggles of the blueline, almost to a man, Phillips was a beacon of consistency who was called upon more than he should have been, and for the most part he was equal to the task. Only Karlsson has played more than the 20:38 per game than Phillips, who took a regular turn on the power play in addition to his expected penalty kill and even strength duties.
GRADE: A
Potential To Improve: I don’t think there is much more Phillips could do at this point in his career to be better. If it wasn’t for him, the blue line might have imploded early on while they were finding their way.