
With Sergei Fedorov's recent switch to the blueline, I've had a close interest in his game. I've often felt if there was one star of this era who could make the move to defense, Feds would be the guy. He's got good size, good skating, excellent puck skills and the intelligence to make an impact. I also believe he'd be more challenged at this position, perhaps motivating him beyond the enigma title. And by most accounts he has fared quite well so far.

It is pretty rare to see forwards dropped back on defense though, except to quarterback a power play. Learning NHL defense is a life long process, so to make the sudden switch back requires a tremendous understanding of the game. When you're a defenseman you're outlook is different. More often than not the game is coming right at you, which is rare as a forward. It is more reactionary than creative.
Fedorov is the most recent, though he's done it in the past with Detroit. Philadelphia used Sami Kapanen on D at times, and he did quite well as well despite his size. But both have been temporary. Eric Dandenault and Marty McSorley are two recent and permanent successes.

The game was quite different pre-WWII, but the transition is no less impressive. There were three notable players to make the switch:
Detroit's Ebbie Goodfellow and Montreal's Babe Siebert both won Hart Trophies and Stanley Cups after anchoring the back end. And Boston's Dit Clapper is the only player in National Hockey League history to be named as an All Star both at forward and on defense.
1 comment:
Don't forget Doug Mohns who had a sandwich career of several years as a defenseman switched to winger for 6 years then spent his final 5 years as a rearguard again.
He was a fine defenseman for the Bruins when traded to Chicago he became an offensive star skating on the famed "Scooter line" with Stan Mikita and Kenny Wharram.
The last 5 seasons of his career he return to patrol the blueline for the North Stars,Flames and Caps always in demand for that veteran skill on defense. Mohns remains one of the NHL most unsung players
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