I AM defending Gorges. He is what he always has been, a defensive D-man. Yes, he's a disaster with the puck, and yes, we've had to endure the sight of a lot of Gorges shots lately; but he is a fine NHL defenseman. He could comfortably play third pair on any team in the league. He's routinely handed the toughest minutes and he plays them well. Blame Bylsma for coaching a defensive style, blame the hockey gods for our injuries, but don't blame Josh Gorges. Maybe stop expecting him to be something he never was and you'll appreciate him more as a player.