Patrice Bergeron, Selke winner Jonathan Toews lead with their defence

CHICAGO – Jonathan Toews had games for the Chicago Blackhawks that his numbers “jumped off the charts.” That’s how coach Joel Quenneville describes it, and it doesn’t have to do with producing goals and assists.

Toews’ all-around game, especially in his own zone, earned him the Selke Trophy and it’s a big reason why the Blackhawks won the Presidents’ Trophy and are in the Stanley Cup final. They’re also facing the Selke runner-up in Patrice Bergeron, who likewise sets the perfect tone for the Boston Bruins on defence.

Toews’ defensive prowess sometimes goes overlooked because of what he can do offensively and how he leads Chicago. But those things put together make him a more well-rounded captain.

Being part of the NHL’s best and strongest defensive team helped Toews’ case for the Selke, which the 25-year-old acknowledged. But the Blackhawks are sound at both ends of the ice because Toews is such a responsible player.

The Bruins can say the same thing about Bergeron, who led the league in faceoff percentage and is probably the best shut-down centre around.

But Toews was in the MVP discussion because he does it all and does it well.