The Avalanche-Predators series was hailed as a matchup featuring two of the best defensemen in the NHL. It just so happened that both of them were playing for the same team.
Yes, the Grading the Week staff saw the news Friday:
The 31-year-old veteran certainly had the regular-season production — 96 points, 73 assists and an average ice time of 25:33 — to make a strong case. Makar’s spectacular flip shot off the roof of the Predators’ goal in Game 1 was artistry on ice. His Game 3 overtime winner paid homage to his relentless activity. And that Game 4? Well, that was the full Makar car wash, complete with flashes of brilliant skating, pinpoint accuracy from the point and a handful of Skittles from some Smashville admirers.
Of course, neither is up for the Lindsay Award — although Makar did join Josi as a Norris Trophy finalist.