Defensemen don’t mind when they’re shorted on attention. Like referees and relief pitchers, that usually means they’re doing a good job.
With the notable exception of Brent Burns for his offense prowess, the Sharks’ blue-liners are quietly in the background when it comes to Western Conference finals hype. Yet they’re having a terrific run, with the team allowing just 30 goals in 15 playoff games and recording a league-best three shutouts.
“This is the best we’ve played as a D-corps, as a team, since I’ve been here, for sure,” said defenseman Marc-Eouard Vlasic, who is in his 10th season with the Sharks.