NHL mock draft: How all-time greats fit 2018 needs

The Toronto Maple Leafs need a franchise defenseman. Specifically, they need someone to anchor the right side of the ice. This sounds like a job for arguably the best right-handed defenseman of all-time in Chris Chelios.

Chelios is one of the two right-handed defensemen in NHL history to win multiple Norris Trophies. The other one? Erik Karlsson. Chelios is also arguably the best American-born player in NHL history. He won three Norris Trophies, one with the Montreal Canadiens and two with the Chicago Blackhawks.

He’s one of the most durable players of all-time, as he played well into his forties. Chelios was named to seven All-Star teams and won three Stanley Cups (1985-86, 2001-02, 2007-08). He also appeared in 10 All-Star Games.

The Leafs have never had a defenseman of Chelios’ caliber. In his prime, he was one of the best defensemen of all-time. Chelios’ strong defensive game would make the Leafs much better. And he was always quicker and faster than he was given credit for. This would make him a great fit in Toronto.

Chelios is the kind of defenseman who could help bring a Stanley Cup to the Leafs for the first time since 1967. They need a right-handed defenseman and he’s a flawless fit in that role. Also, Chelios is familiar with Mike Babcock, as he coached him with the Red Wings.