Toronto Maple Leafs 2021-22 Defenseman and Goalie Grades

May 14, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly (44) celebrates with forward Mitch Marner (16) and forward Auston Matthews (34) after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the second period of game seven of the first round of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

6 of 12

Apr 26, 2022; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Mark Giordano (55) . Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Mark Giordano

Mark Giordano was acquired by the Leafs last year at the trade deadline, and the former Norris Trophy winner re-signed this off-season for a mind-blowingly low price near the league minimum. This team friendly deal is one of the luckiest things to ever happen to the Leafs and could possibly end up being one of the most valuable contracts in the NHL this season.

Giordano registered two goals and ten assists for 12 points in 20 games with the Maple Leafs last season, but it’s the on-ice numbers that are explosive: 55 % puck-possession, 58% of the shots, 61% of the goals, 61% Expected Goals, 58% scoring chances, 63% High-Danger Chances.

Those are Norris Level numbers, and the Leafs were getting that out of their third pairing! Giordano clicked instantly with Timothy Liljegren (who was already posting elevated numbers but continued to do so) and the Leafs were playing with tilted ice whenever the two partners were on the ice.

Giordano was absolutely fantastic, and his elite on-ice numbers matchup well with a 50 point pace.

Defense. . MARK GIORDANO. A.

Home/Analysis