templar's defense isn't bad, (actually gives a pally a decent amount of utility, hilt smash is awesome) nor is strike of faith-deliverance when you have all three hits land.
I always viewed shield pallies at a little more defensive and two handers a little more offensive.
But I'd guess with the right virutes/gear, shield pallies are better.

I haven't seen an avenger in a long time. People like monks and champions(whatever the staff/pole one is) and shield pallies have great defense.
Avengers have sort of faded away. But being able to use bal talon as a non storm is pretty sweet, since it is far easier to get than defiance relatively speaking.