They are large, strong and fast. They arrive at the point of attack in a nasty mood. To say they finish their checks in textbook manner hardly does their work justice. It all depends on how you react. Goal-scorers reap the glory.
Goalies deal with the tension.
Big hitters determine the course of entire playoff series by emboldening their teams and intimidating the opponent. More than ever, the playoffs have become their time of the year. Defending Stanley Cup champion New Jersey has won its last five playoff series. Look at the damage wrought by defenseman Scott Stevens in that streak. In the second round against Toronto last spring, Stevens flattened Tomas Kaberle, Kevyn Adams and Tie Domi.