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It's time to put the finishing touches on the 2009-2010 season for the Buffalo Sabres. Here is a complete report card of every single player that played any amount of time with the Sabres this season. The journey will begin with Chris Butler and conclude in almost a month with Thomas Vanek. Thanks to Japers Rink and Mile High Hockey for the inspiration.
Introduction: In his first year with the Sabres, Steve Montador endeared himself to fans with his solid defensive play, toughness, and better-than-advertised offensive ability. By the end of the year, he had firmly entrenched himself as a top-4 defenseman for this team.
Voting: On a scale of one to ten, one being the lowest and ten being the highest, grade Steve Montador on his season according to the expectations you had for him. If he met them, give him a five or a six. If he eclipsed them, aim for a seven or beyond. If he failed to meet them, give him a lower number relating to how poorly he missed the target.
Key Stat: Despite not being advertised for his offensive ability, Montador took 134 shots, most on the team by 30, which helped him tie his career high in points. However, even with all those shots, his shooting percentage was a mere 3.7%, lowest on the team among players with more than one goal.
Thumbs Up: Montador was the team's second best offensive defenseman, with his 5 goals and 23 points trailing only Tyler Myers. He was also second best on the team in goals against per 60 minutes, at 2.15 behind Tony Lydman. He also led the team in game winning goals with two.
Thumbs Down: Steve Montador is a poor skater, as evidenced by his falling down while carrying the puck that directly led to two goals against, one in the playoffs. He also shares Tony Lydman's penchant for awful, front-of-your-own-net turnovers.
Discuss: What do you think about Steve Montador's play this year? Who should be his defensive partner next year?