As the 2026-27 NHL season approaches, hockey fans are eager to see which defensemen will lead their teams to victory. The NHL Network's latest rankings have revealed its top 20 defensemen heading into the new season, and with a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, this year's crop is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. But with so many talented blueliners vying for the top spots, which ones will make the biggest impact? Here are five key questions surrounding the NHL Network's top 20 defensemen, from the dominance of established stars to the emergence of new breakout players. Who will rise to the top of the rankings, and which teams will reap the benefits of their success?

NHL Network top 20 defensemen entering 2026-27: 5 questions  NHL.com