The using of forwards isn't solely for the purpose of their offensive prowess, if that was the case, then teams would only have six forwards. The rest of the icetime would fall to 5 defencemen, one of which could take faceoffs, perfect way to have boring hockey. Merely each team could ice their Top Six forwards until they wore out, then stick to playing defence the rest of the time. The fact that the Frank Selke Trophy is awarded to the forward deemed the best two way forward, goes against that concept. Obviously there is a large contingent of hockey people that see the value of these types of players, not just the franchise type of Hart Trophy winning player.(One winner each season, which leaves 29 teams wanting.)
The value of JDLR is in his abilities to be the type of shutdown forward, made popular by Bob Gainey and a horde of other very great two way forwards. Hardly a player that some here consider a bust, due to his lack of offensive ability. Many fans seem only to appreciate the players that score the goals, which during the playoffs are few and far between. Learning about the game of hockey, winning hockey that takes checking the opponents, retaining possession of the puck and keeping it out of our net, whilst taking advantage of scoring opportunities.
All Star teams never win Championships, unless the All Stars play a good two way game, players like Crosby, Toews, Tavares, etc. etc. etc. That play a complete game or 200 ft. game, are those types of players that win in the World Cup competitions, best against best. In the NHL with 30 teams, there aren't enough players of their ilk to man each team, therefore the need of specialists that can stem these players offence, allowing their own offensive stars to rest, then come out to turn on the pressure to score and win.(Without allowing defensive breakdowns, which give the opponents scoring opportunities.)
The fact a forward is great at playing a shutdown role, doesn't mean he should be a defenceman, which usually takes at least 4-5 yrs. to become somewhat proficient. Development of every type of forward, isn't a certainty by any means, but a player that shows the abilities of JDLR as a shutdown forward, is pretty much like finding a piece of Gold for a team wanting to win the Stanley Cup Championship.