No reason why they can't. But plenty of reason why they don't. It is tough to get 2 good top pairing Dmen. Having 6 second pairing Dmen doesn't really compensate for the lack of talent at the top. Though 6 2D's is better than 6 3D's, or 4 2D's + 2 3D's, etc. Now, if you could get 4 1D's, or 6 1D's, sure, great plan.
Right now, Jets 2 best Dman are split between to first 2 pairs and the 3rd best Dman is playing on the 3rd pair. That looks like PM is trying to do what you suggest except the talent is not that even and neither is the TOI. He doesn't have the other 3 Dmen to do that. Each of his top 3 is having to carry a weaker partner.
My thought was running 3 lines with:
The top-2 as we have it, but hopefully next year upgrading on Poolmn with Morrissey, and ^+Samburg joining Pionk (with resigning him), and then;
VHeinola with DDemelo. Spread out 3 top defenders, assuming Heinola is ready full bore for NHL giving her.
?? Whats wrong with this??
Maybe - Stanley can pair with Heinola and they gel, compliment. (and or Demelo is dealt with a prospect or 2 to get a higher rated RHS; or d Demelo plays with Morrissey, letting JMo green light to explore more offensive play starts and rushes!)
Not possible or plausable??
The only other fixes likely are trading a top forward or 2, plus high picks to get proper talented Defense on the Jets again! So, Morrissey, Pionk, Heinola, maybe Samberg? are all only 2nd pairing peak, top, best level, but none can play with each other to form a make-shift top pairing!? What about your love for Demelo, calling him a top pair/ top 3 defender at season start? He's a valued, sturdy 3rd liner on many other teams.
What is the fix you all suggest? ( instead of questioning others, dissing what/who we have now, Im talking for next year, future)
