Point/Counterpoint Tavares/Hedman

To answer Chris's question of who I would rather have on my team. Since I am a Sabres fan, I would go with Hedman. I look at the roster and see Vanek, Roy and Pommers all young players locked in long term. I see Mancari, Gerbe and Kennedy in Portland ready to emerge. From a positional point of view I would have to go defense. Tallinder is leaving, Lydman, Spacek and Teppo all well over 30. I see guys like Sekera and Butler emerging. I look at a guy like Myers and think wow this guy is huge. I could imagine what a blueline would look like with him and Hedman playing back there.

I see how Hedman has translated in the Swedish Elite League and can't help but think that not many 18 years make that jump so smoothly. He has the size is physical and a great shot from the point. A fluid skater despite his size he offers a great transition game that is so important in today's NHL.

Now most people will argue that Hedman did not have the greatest WJC, but we have to remember he was just coming back from a seperated shoulder. That needs to be accounted for. Tavares is a great talent, but 2 things make me hesitate to take him. Can he live up to the hype, Stamkos so far hasn't. The other factor is will he get bored the way he has in the OHL. It seems he reached a certain level and just plataued. Does he have the right mindset to keep improving year in and year out in the NHL or will he reach a certain level, say ok I am good enough and become complacent.

Both players have questions, so it comes down to what does your team need more. A great forward or a great defenseman? Look at your prospects, look at the players on your team and you will find your answer. For the Sabres it is clearly Hedman.