Five, Six, and Seven Round Out Solid Defensive Corps

We've profiled the top four, now let's take a look at the last three defensemen for the Washington Capitals. They won't get the ice time as the top group, but they still play an important role in the success of the team.

No. 5 on the blueline is 26-year-old Andrew Ference. Andy is strong in his own end with good speed, skating, and passing. He's also very durable which allows him to step up and contribue on specialty teams when needed. Ference checks in at 5-10 and 196 pounds, and scored seven goals with seven assists in 70 games last season. He also recorded 72 hits and 169 PIMs.

Checking in at No. 6 is 6-1, 208 pound, Michal Rozsival. The 27-year-old passes the puck well and plays a good game in his won end. He also has good strength, endurance, and durability. While primarily the sixth defender, Rozsival has the ability to move up the ladder and log more time with hard work and dedication. Last season Michal netted 11 goals and 27 assists with 97 hits in 83 games.

The No. 7 on defense is Russian veteran Boris Mironov. The 32-year-old isn't the player he once was, but he still brings a strong game to the ice and can handle things in his own end. Last season Boris scored five goals and passed out eight assists in 77 games. He also had 113 hits and 274 PIMs.

With two more strong players at No. 5 and 6, the Capitals defense is good all the way to the end. The team will need strong play throughout the lineup to keep opponents off the board and propel Washington to victory.