Why Samuel Girard is a key part of the Colorado Avalanche blue line core
Girard has been a stalwart on the Avalanche's blue line
An outsider might think Girard had held his grasp as an anchor on the second defensive pair because others failed to take his spot. But Samuel Girard has done his own work in establishing coach Bednar's trust.
It isn't just about availability, although #49 has suited up for all 39 Avalanche games this season. It has been reliability that has sustained Girard's game this season. Girard has quietly become a crucial contributor for a team often hampered by injury.
Samuel Girard is currently sixth on the team in two key statistics. The obvious one, which might not seem obvious, is overall points. With two goals and 16 assists Sammy G. is just ahead of Devon Toews and Ross Colton. With Toews recent burst in production, that edge might not last. Still, it has been notable on a squad who fought so hard through adversity to stay afloat.
I've written previously about how important defensive core contributions are a major facet in Colorado's formula for fueling a top-tier offense. Ranking second to Cale Makar among Avalanche blue liners nearly halfway through the year says a ton about Samuel Girard.
The other stat where Girard holds down the sixth spot is perhaps more sustainable, and more important. That is time on ice per game. Samuel Girard averages 21:06 every night. In that category he is behind only the top defensive pair in Cale Makar and Devon Toews, Nathan MacKinnon, Mikko Rantanen and Artturi Lehkonen.
TOI as a stat can easily be overlooked, but is sometimes the most simple measure of a coach's trust in a player. Girard might not have eye-popping offensive numbers, especially when compared to some of his teammates. But he is playing the most solid hockey of his career, in my opinion.
Based on these numbers, there’s no denying that Samuel Girard is a valuable member in what is one of the league’s best blue lines. All you need to do is watch the Avalanche play to see how the stats hold up on the ice.