There has been some outstanding play by defencemen in the Stanley Cup playoffs - Sergei Gonchar's offensive prowess with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Chris Pronger's dominance with the Philadelphia Flyers. And let's not forget Drew Doughty, who continues to impress as postseason rookie with the Los Angeles Kings.

But don't overlook Shea Weber's value to the Nashville Predators, who hold a 2-1 series lead over the talent-rich Chicago Blackhawks.

Weber was at his best in the Predators 4-1 win over Chicago in Game 3. Not only did he score a goal, he fired up his side just minutes into the first period when he flattened the 'Hawks Patrick Kane with a hard hit.

Inflicting their will and making life miserable for Chicago's skill players represents the Predators best chance of upsetting Chicago, and with Weber leading that charge Nashville has a puncher's chance at making it happen.

Weber's stock has stayed high since his Olympic showing in Vancouver, where he finished second in scoring among defencemen. The Germans, by the way, still haven't seen the Weber blast that beat their goalie and went through the net for a Canadian goal.