2.) Rob Blake
Another one of the old guard of Avalanche defenders, Rob Blake had a big impact in a shorter time in Denver. He played most of his career with the LA Kings and came over to Colorado in a trade in the 2000-01 season. He played 23 games during those playoffs, scoring 19 points. He also averaged nearly 30 minutes per game (29:26) for the team. He was a vital piece to hoisting the Stanley Cup that season, his first Cup victory.
During his five seasons in Colorado, Blake played in 322 games. He was effective, earning 208 points during his tenure. He scored 13 or more goals in each full season he was in Colorado. Known for his heavy shot from the blue line, Blake was extremely effective on the Power Play. He had 34 power play goals and added 67 powerplay assists while in burgundy and blue (black at the time).
Blake was reliable. He averaged over 25 minutes per game (25:38) as an Avalanche defender and did not take many penalties. Aside from Blake’s reputation of a heavy slap shot, he also was a fear player, as he was no stranger to delivering a big hit. His steady play earned him a top five finish in the Norris Trophy voting three of the five seasons he was in Colorado.
Blake was not a shoo-in for Mount Rushmore. There was some competition among others, but his consistent play during his tenure in Colorado, his Power Play prowess, and his Stanley Cup victory put him on it.