Calgary Flames defenseman MacKenzie Weegar has consistently flown under the radar, but his contributions shouldn’t go unnoticed. Often overshadowed by flashier players, Weegar’s blend of offensive and defensive skills makes him one of the reasons he recently ranked on Jacob Stoller’s top-five list of underappreciated NHL defensemen.
But, is there a case to rank him No. 1?
Who are the NHL’s most underappreciated defensemen?
With the help of an NHL asst coach, an NHL scout, data & eye test observations — I examined that in part 2 of our 3 part series at @TheHockeyNews
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— Jacob Stoller (@JLStoller) August 20, 2024
Stoller also names Adam Pelech (Islanders), Jonas Brodin (Wild), Vince Dunn (Kraken), and Shea Theodore (Golden Knights) on his list. All are worthy to be there. Weegar has a lot of intangibles that make him a logical choice, but he’s also dealing with obstacles these other names might not be. He’s overcoming a massive trade, a lack of identity as a defender, and his history as a lower-end prospect, all while contributing to the Flames.
Weegar Has To Continually Prove Himself
Weegar came to Calgary in the blockbuster Matthew Tkachuk trade, which brought Jonathan Huberdeau along with him. While Tkachuk has become a star with the Florida Panthers, Huberdeau has struggled to match his previous production. That makes Weegar the piece fans are counting on. It’s been his job to ensure that the franchise-altering deal wasn’t categorized as a total disaster. Last season, he delivered a career-high 20 goals and 52 points, doing his best to prove the Flames didn’t get completely hosed. Those 52 points came under intense pressure.
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As Stoller points out, what sets Weegar apart is his well-rounded game. He led all NHL defensemen in even-strength goals (17) last season, trailing only Roman Josi and Cale Makar in total goals scored among defensemen. Those are two of the most appreciated and respected blueliners in the game. Stoller points to Weegar’s heavy shot, ability to block shots, kill penalties, and disrupt passing lanes as tools which make him a formidable presence on the ice. Not only can he provide offense, but comparisons to Chris Tanev are fair. He is legitimately a dual threat.
A former seventh-round draft selection, Weegar doesn’t get the benefit of the doubt either. Constantly having to prove his worth, when ranked by publications and in fantasy projections, he’s often forgotten. Still, his over 200 shots on goal and 200 blocked shots, coupled with 194 hits, means he’s going to provide value in one way or another.
In a league where flashy plays often garner the most attention, Weegar’s gritty, effective style may be overlooked, but it’s exactly what makes him so valuable. His ability to contribute offensively while maintaining a strong defensive presence is rare. , He is a crucial asset for the Flames as they work through a rebuild, one he says he’s proud to be a part of.
How many other defensemen are willing to go out on a limb like that?
