Last season was a strong one for Gardiner. In 82 games played, he registered 5 goals, 47 assists, 15 PP, 22:32 ATOI, 39 takeaways, 103 blocks and a 50.7 corsi-for percentage. Plus, in the defensive zone, he was the best Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman. Per a post from James Tanner, Gardiner allowed the least amount of goals and shots compared to rest of the Maple Leafs defensive core.
Sure, he’s not bringing home a Norris trophy, but he was a strong defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs. The issue is that his play in the defensive and neutral zone isn’t always pretty.