Each week, we'll be introducing a ranking of NHL players or teams, based on something different on every occasion.
While we are still in the infancy of the 2014-15 NHL season, patterns are already forming. We can get a feel for which players are going to be relied upon to carry their teams and which teams and players may need more help to succeed.
This week, we look at the most-used defensemen in the NHL by average time on ice per game, and how well they have performed under the pressure of big minutes, by examining the team's Corsi percentages while the player is on the ice compared to what it is when they are not.
You'll recognize a lot of these names as perennial favorites for the Norris Trophy (including one surprise who is a rising candidate), but there is one notable exception to that trend:
1. Ryan Suter, Minnesota Wild
Average time on ice per game: 28:50
Even-strength Corsi percentage with Suter on ice: 59.3 percent
Even-strength Corsi percentage without Suter on ice: 56.0 percent
Stat line: 4 games, 1 goal, 2 assists