McKEE CANES TOP DEFENSEMAN

Carolina

After the smoke cleared and many discussions were made, the team ultimately decided to award the defenseman of the year award to steady Jay McKee. McKee, 28, had an outstanding season both offensively and defensively. The talented defender picked up 8 goals and 36 assists and led all defensemen on the squad. McKee also took on the opposing teams top lines and managed to maintain a solid +6 rating for his efforts.

Not thought of as an offensive weapon, McKee still managed to put up decent numbers despite minimal offensive time and generally played on the second power play unit or not at all. The team utilized him to maximize his defensive talents and the Canes have never been happier with their young assistant captain, now in his third year in such a role.

"This year was an eye opener for me," said McKee. "The team stepped up and I think everyone here deserves a lot of credit for our play. We never made anything easy for the opposition and truthfully, this award belongs to everyone here."

McKee returns next season as the clubs top defender once again. After the late season deal sending Mattias Ohlund to Phoenix, McKee was put on a tandem with Rostislav Klesla and the duo seemed to have instant chemistry. The likelihood is that the two will return as the Canes top duo on the backend.

The Canes should retun all six of their starting defensemen and the hope is that young banger Dion Phanuef can join the club, possibly as an impact rookie.