Cam Neely argues for best offensive defenseman trophy

Boston Bruins president Cam Neely appeared on 98.5 The Sports Hub's Felger & Mazz show Thursday, and, while making a case that Zdeno Chara should be the favorite to win the Norris Trophy, added he believes it's time for the NHL to institute an award for best offensive defenseman.

For me, I think the Norris Trophy … maybe they should add a trophy as far as best offensive defenseman. To me, and I’ve said this many times, I would absolutely hate to play against Zdeno [Chara] on a regular basis. Just because of his reach and his strength and he’d be frustrating as hell to play against. He’s so solid back there … he is in my opinion the best defender in the game. He can contribute offensively, but he doesn’t put up ridiculous offensive numbers. He doesn’t take chances offensively. And one of the things I think he’s done is say, ‘You know what — I’m going to focus on what I really do well,’ and I think you’ve seen that with him this year.

In 74 games, Chara amassed 17 goals and 19 assists, and his 36 total points ranks him 25th among all defensemen.  As Neely notes, however, he's widely regarded as the toughest defenseman to play against, and largely helps the Bruins control the play when he's on the ice.

Whether his offensive numbers will serve as a hindrance or not, it appears as though it may be time to honor both the top offensive and defensive defenseman with offseason awards in the same way that forwards are differentiated with the Art Ross and Selke awards.

As such, offensive studs like Erik Karlsson, Dustin Byfuglien, or P.K. Subban can get their due while perhaps not bringing the strongest defensive games to the table.

To bring it full circle with the Bruins, may we suggest the Bobby Orr award?