NHL Network Ranks Victor Hedman Fourth Best Defenseman In League

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman is rounding into one of the best all-around blue liners in the NHL, and his status is reflected in a new ranking of the league’s top defenders.

The new ranking, released by NHL Network on Saturday night, places Hedman as the fourth-best defenseman in the entire NHL. Hedman, who is entering his ninth NHL season, had 16 goals and 56 assists last season as he played in 79 games for the Lightning.

Ottawa Senators’ star Erik Karlsson is the top-ranked defenseman in the league, with San Jose’s Brent Burns, and Los Angeles’ Drew Doughty the only blueliners ranked ahead of Hedman.

NHL Network analyst Ken Daneyko anointed Hedman as the “most well rounded” defenseman.

Here’s NHL Network’s Top Twenty Defensemen Videos:

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Anton Stralman did not make the list.

(Photos/Christine Gunn)

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