NHL Scouting Combine 2012: Previewing Best Defenders on Showcase

Defense wins championships, and at the NHL scouting combine, teams will get a closer look at the best defenders in the draft. 

Putting goals in the back of the net is nice, but how far did that get the Pittsburgh Penguins?

Or Philadelphia Flyers?

The Los Angeles Kings and New Jersey Devils, teams with elite defenses, are the ones battling it out for the Stanley Cup trophy. 

So let's take a look at the best defenders at this year's combine. 

Note: All stats come from hockeydb.com

Ryan Murray

At 6'1" and 200 pounds, Murray has terrific size for a defenseman. He's able to control his area on the defensive side of the ice, but he also won't back down to a fight. Murray is an enforcer.

But his skills don't stop there, as Murray's true intrigue is as a two-way player.

He has been playing for the Everett Silvertips for the past three season, and has been drawing acclaim for being able to set up his teammates. 

In 168 total games with Everett, Murray has racked up 84 assists and 104 total points. Not only will he bolster a team's defensive unit, Murray will be able to contribute in all aspects of the game. 

Mathew Dumba

Dumba is a big-time hitter and he possesses a very strong shot.

The 17-year-old isn't the greatest passer, and has went minus-six for the Red Deer Rebels this season, but his ability to both enforce and put the puck in the back of the net is more than enticing. 

In the past two season for the Rebels, Dumba has tallied 35 goals and 48 assists in 131 games.

Morgan Rielly

Rielly is a smart player on the ice.

He defends well, and on offense, he knows how to set people up. That became apparent this season with the Moose Jaw Warriors. In 18 games, Rielly scored three times and racked up 15 assists, giving him an even point per game.

Unfortunately, he suffered a torn ACL in November and it will be interesting to see how healthy he is at this week's combine.