Report Card - Carl Gunnarsson

Name/Position – Carl Gunnarsson/D
Height/Weight – 6'2"/200 lbs
09/10 Games Played – 43 Goals - 3 Assists - 12 Points – 15 Plus/Minus – plus 8
Salary/Cap Hit - $630,000/$800,000


Analysis - Carl Gunnarsson was the Leafs most consistent defenceman.

The smooth skating Swede came out of nowhere in his rookie season, stealing a roster spot from Finger and Exelby.

An injury did limit him to 43 games, so it will be interesting to see if he can continue his great play through a whole season.

Although never "flashy", Carl always seemed to make the smart/safe play, clearing the zone, and stopping the offensive chance. He led defencemen in plus/minus, and was trusted by head coach Ron Wilson in all situations.

Being named to Team Sweden for the World Hockey Championships just highlights Gunnarsson's ability and poise.

Carl will be a big piece moving forward, and could prove to be a great 3/4 defender for years to come. A Luke Schenn/Carl Gunnarsson second pairing has the potential to be one of the best in the league! That's right, I said it!

Grade - B+ (With more games under his belt, Gunnarsson would have pushed an A!)