Team Canada 2014 – Predicting The Defensemen & Goalies

7th & 8th Defensemen

P.K. Subban  & Marc-Edouard Vlasic

Jan 2, 2014; Dallas, TX, USA; Montreal Canadiens defenseman

(76) waits for play to begin against the Dallas Stars during the second period at the American Airlines Center. Subban scores a goal in the second. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Subban is the reigning Norris Trophy winner and although he plays a hig-risk game, as the 7th defenseman he can be used in situations when needed and not in situations where his high risk-high reward style will hurt the team.  He is outgoing and likes the spotlight and will not wilt under the pressure of the Olympics.

Nov 21, 2013; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Sharks defenseman

(44) on defense during the first period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at SAP Center at San Jose. Sharks won 5-1. Mandatory Credit: Bob Stanton-USA TODAY Sports

Vlasic, on the other hand is the anti-Subban.  He is steady and just goes about his job, making safe plays and doesn’t need the adulation.  He is more of a defensive presence and can chip in offensively.

I am not sure which of the two would be #7, who would get in the lineup first and who would be there in case of injury.  I would think that the defensive stopper might be more in demand so Vlasic might get the nod.