Toronto Maple Leafs Mid-Season Awards

The Borje Salming Award

John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

To be given to the Maple Leafs’ best defenseman.

Winner: Dion Phaneuf

Runner-up: Morgan Rielly

Hate me if you want, but Phaneuf has been the Leafs best defenseman this season by a longshot. He might not have the best offensive numbers on the blue line, but he has given the Leafs at least a steady force in their own zone. He still makes his mistakes, but they are happening less than they were in previous years.

With a new contract in the works, Phaneuf should continue to work hard for the rest of the season.