It's evident that Norris calibre defencemen are a must to win the cup. The most prominent names in the last 5 years that have been effective are Zubov, Sydor, Bourque, Blake, Lidstrom, Niedermayer.
It's been mentioned in articles by sports wrieters that the exception was Tampa Bay with Boyle, Sydor, Kubina & Pratt. They point out that Tampa didn't have a calibre defenceman so it's not always necessary to have one.
I disagree. Let's face it. Sydor has 2 rings. He deserves mention with the other names.
In a nutshell, the last 6 years featured Norris winners or runner ups winning the cup.
Anybody see Norris potential on the Habs?
I don't. But there is always good luck and fortune-somewhere. Hopefully in Montreal. My number 1 sleeper candidate on defence for the Habs is Markov. Anybody check out the World Championship?
It could take time to have Montreal gel and come together. 2008 is when we will be happy