NHL: The meteoric rise of the multi-tooled enforcer

Zack Kassian

Another player that comes to mind is Zack Kassian of the Edmonton Oilers. While he is not the offensive threat that Wilson is, Kassian has played well enough in his role to earn a multi-year contract. The 29-year old this season signed a four-year extension worth $12.8 million, a cap-hit of $3.2 million annually.

During this shortened season, the Ontario native has tied his career-mark in goals with 15, also accumulating a career-high in assists with 19. Playing alongside superstar Connor McDavid surely helps, but there is a reason he is on that top line.

His ability to be effective offensively, while keeping an eye out for his linemate makes his role crucial in getting the Oilers to where they want to be in the standings.

And yes, we have seen Kassian also get fined and suspended, as he kicked Erik Cernak of the Tampa Bay Lightning, as well as attacked Calgary Flames forward Matthew Tkachuk after what he deemed was dangerous hits against him.

He has a short fuse, what can I say. While he does not block and hit like Wilson, his leadership and ability to stand up for his teammates is never in question.

With three fights this season, that may not seem like a lot, but when you watch him play he will stop at nothing to make sure his teammates are protected. And I mean nothing. That is why he was awarded an extension and why he plays 13:23 minutes per game.