When general manager Doug Wilson acquired Brent Burns before the 2011-12 season, it was anticipated that he would plug-in and become a dominant force on the San Jose Sharks blue line. However, Burns’ greatest impact in San Jose has come when he’s been a forward, playing alongside Joe Thornton.
After moving back to defense last season, Burns continued his offensive prowess, ranking second in the NHL, and fourth on the Sharks, with 60 points by a defenseman. His 17 goals and 43 assists, to go along with 245 shots shows the kind of offensive potential Burns possesses.