The NHL Network has announced their Top 20 NHL Defensemen Right Now ranking for the 2024-25 season.
One Bruin made the cut, with star defenseman Charlie McAvoy taking the No. 7 spot. Last season, McAvoy was ranked sixth on the NHL Network’s list, but that slot now belongs to Florida Panthers rising prospect Gustav Forsling.
Unfortunately, another Bruins defenseman who made last year’s list did not make the cut this time: Hampus Lindholm. Last year, Lindholm finished at No. 15.
Here they are!
What do you think of our Top 20 Defensemen Right Now list? @NHL | #NHLTopPlayers pic.twitter.com/UL0i1xtwWf
— NHL Network (@NHLNetwork) August 29, 2024
Will anyone take Cale Makar's spot atop our Top 20 Defensemen list?
Find out when this year's Top 20 Defensemen Right Now list is revealed tomorrow at 6pm ET/3pm PT on NHL Network! #NHLTopPlayers pic.twitter.com/CN0HweQn8Z
— NHL Network (@NHLNetwork) August 27, 2024
Lindholm’s dip in offensive productivity this season is certainly a major factor in the NHL Network’s decision to remove him from their list. Lindholm had an outstanding season in 2022-23, scoring 10 goals, 53 points, and maintaining a plus-49 rating in 80 games. In 2023-24, he scored three goals and added 26 points in 73 games. While these numbers from the point are not horrible, his offense saw a significant drop last season.
If Lindholm can resurrect his offensive next season while maintaining his consistent defensive play, he might make a case for regaining a spot on the NHL Network’s list. Time will tell what happens on that front.