Brent Burns is now on pace to do something that hasn't been done by a defenseman since 1986

BarDown Staff

Brent Burns , Getty Images/Christian Petersen

Aside from Connor McDavid's ascent to superstardom and Sidney Crosby's sensational scoring numbers this season, a big storyline in the NHL is the career year Brent Burns is currently on pace for.

Entering play Tuesday night against the Jets, Burns had 50 points in 48 games, 20 of which were goals.

Burnzie continued his hot play by scoring the game's opening goal in Winnipeg for his 21st goal of the year, and it was an important one as the Shark continues his journey towards history.

Brent Burns goal is also his 21st of 2016-17, putting him on pace for 35. That would be the 8th most in a single NHL season by a defenceman
— StatsCentre (@StatsCentre) January 25, 2017

As it stands, only 3 defencemen have ever had 35+ goals in a season: Bobby Orr (3 times), Paul Coffey (3) and Burns's GM Doug Wilson (once) https://t.co/rrZzjY2u7H
— StatsCentre (@StatsCentre) January 25, 2017

It's insane that Burns could actually finish the season with 35 or more goals. At this point, it's not just a pipe dream, it's very realistic.

The accomplishment would also be very historical, too, as Paul Coffey was the last defenseman to score 35 or more goals in a season back in 1986. He scored 48 that season.

Not including the game against the Jets Tuesday night, Burns has scored three goals in his last five games. If he keeps that pace up, the All-Star will be in the history books come the end of the season.

(H/T: StatsCentre)