Jack Hughes (Getty Images)
The National Hockey League is yet another example of a sporting institution that has been completely revitalized by evolutions in sport science to create a product that defies belief for the fans. As scouting and training levels grow at an exponential rate, the quality of the league will continue to follow that pattern. Thus, it is no surprise that my latest ranking of the best players in the NHL was a sincerely challenging project.
It is worth noting that I concluded that ranking goaltenders and skaters on the same scale was a pointless endeavour, so after my list of the top 50 players, I will also name my top 5 goalies in the league at the end of the article.
Superstardom is taken for granted in a league as talented as the NHL, so there will coincidentally be several controversial selections throughout this process. There may well be odd inclusions or stunning exclusions; after all, a top 50 ranking is severely limiting. As I often do, I will name a few honourable mentions to cater to certain fanbases.
Jake Guentzel is the perfect sidekick to Sidney Crosby on Pittsburgh's first line. Blessed with a great hockey IQ, the winger has a sharp shot and an impressive resume.
Jared Spurgeon is one of the most underrated defensemen in recent memory. Despite his diminutive frame, the blue liner combines speed, smarminess, and snarl unlike nobody else.
Jesper Bratt is one of the NHL's best skaters, and he managed to utilize his agility to a greater degree in 2022-23, scoring a career-high 30 goals and improving his puck-carrying abilities.
Kevin Fiala is another personal favourite, a player that I assumed was going to break out in a major way in his first season in LA. While 54 assists is highly impressive, I still believe that the playmaker has a deeper bag than most give him credit for.
The second Penguins forward in the "near-miss" section, Evgeni Malkin's linemates don't help his surface stats, the Russian remains world-class at driving play at even strength.
Joe Pavelski, like Malkin, continues to defy Father Time. Though a drop-off is logical to expect, he is the defensive conscience on one of, if not the best lines in the NHL, while also providing goalscoring.
Andrei Svechnikov, despite my lingering belief in his talent, has still never put the entire package together, but his goalscoring potential is too enticing to not mention in this section.
Hampus Lindholm isn't flashy or thrilling, but he gets the job done as well as just about any other defender in the real top 50 list.
Now that the honourable mentions are out of the way, let's begin with the obvious #1 choice.
SKATERS
1. Connor McDavid, C, Edmonton Oilers
Connor McDavid is simply miles better than any other hockey player on this planet. The indisputable best passer and skater in the league, McDavid established himself as possibly its greatest goalscorer as well, by posting an earth-shattering 64 goals last season. Add that to his newly reinforced defensive responsibilities and you will find that there is simply no other option to top this list.
2. Nathan MacKinnon, C, Colorado Avalanche
The debate starts at #2, though after his most dominant regular season yet, MacKinnon is likely the only player that can rival McDavid in terms of chance creation and pure offensive ability. Arguably more powerful than his Edmontonian counterpart, the Avalanche star remains utterly rapid, making him an effective tool in transition. After leading the league in 5-on-5 points, MacKinnon is set to offer the greatest challenge to the throne of best in the NHL.
3. Auston Matthews, C, Toronto Maple Leafs
Perhaps stemming from Toronto-centric bias, my selection of Auston Matthews as the third best player in the league stems from my belief that he can rebound from a slightly disappointing season. Still armed with a potent shot that he effectively uses in all situations, Matthews is far more than a basic power forward. Nobody dominates across 200 feet like Matthews does, using his frame to dictate tempo in all three zones. With more penalty kill time promised by Sheldon Keefe, Matthews is set to emerge as a premier two-way force.
4. Leon Draisaitl, C, Edmonton Oilers
Offensively, Draisaitl mixes his playmaking ability and finishing better than nearly every player aside from McDavid, but his minimal defensive impacts provide the basis for my argument that he is the league's fourth-best player. Though Draisaitl isn't the fastest skater, his hockey IQ is unmatched. After another memorable playoff run, it will be intriguing to see how the German's dominant offensive game can evolve.
5. Cale Makar, D, Colorado Avalanche
Cale Makar (Getty Images)
Though he hasn't topped the defensemen scoring charts for the past two seasons, Makar has grown as a more complete blue liner, adding a chance prevention element to his game. Nevertheless, I expect a return to his 100-point form in the very near future, considering he is such a dynamic playmaker. Barring legitimate health concerns, Makar should be a shoo-in for the Norris Trophy.
6. Jack Hughes, C, New Jersey Devils
After finally easing the numerous physical concerns at the NHL level, Hughes, one of the best transition threats I have seen in years, has finally become the franchise centre that he always promised to be. A 104-point pace is just the beginning for the young American, who will only continue to improve his shot-making, stickhandling and finishing.
7. Matthew Tkachuk, RW, Florida Panthers
After leading the Florida Panthers to the Stanley Cup Final in a heroic effort, Tkachuk is no longer underrated among the general hockey community. The cornerstone of his team, Tkachuk is a phenomenal even-strength chance creator. He is as effective in tight spaces as he is around the perimeter, thanks to his blend of playmaking and physicality. The next step is to solidify his legacy with the Cats.
8. David Pastrnak, RW, Boston Bruins
While Pastrnak's unbelievable production likely was not hindered by the phenomenal system that coach Jim Montgomery installed in Boston, it is no small feat to score 60 goals in the current NHL landscape. It takes a special sniper to execute that feat. The Czech star also improved his playmaking instincts and power-play prowess last year. More responsibility will be placed on Pastrnak this season.
9. Adam Fox, D, New York Rangers
Not as flashy as the other names in the early stages of the rankings, Fox is as effective as any of his contemporaries. His underrated hockey IQ and strong body are the perfect tools for the modern-day NHL rearguard. In terms of chance prevention, Fox remains the gold standard. A player that can produce high-danger chances with his passing and who also ranks high for entry denial stats is very valuable.
10. Kirill Kaprizov, LW, Minnesota Wild
Kirill Kaprizov (Getty Images)
Kaprizov is a deadly offensive force, utterly complete at every necessary scoring facet in the opposition's end of the ice. Blessed with an array of weapons, such as his lightning-quick shot, dangerous passing, and rapid skating, Kaprizov's potential for elite production trumps that of most players in the league.
11. Jason Robertson, LW, Dallas Stars
What he lacks in dynamism compared to players like Kirill Kaprizov, Robertson makes up for it with his unmatched intelligence with and without the puck. The American's sense of positioning is utterly phenomenal. He occupies dangerous areas like nobody else, while he is equally great at creating chances and shooting in those parts of the ice.
12. Nikita Kucherov, RW, Tampa Bay Lightning
No longer the league's best offensive talent, I get the sense that Kucherov is suddenly underrated by the general public. After posting 83 assists in 2022-23, he emerged back on the scene. At even-strength or on the power play, Kucherov is still a wonderful passer, capable of slinging crisp, accurate dimes across the ice. Even if his finishing and defensive play continues to diminish, Kucherov's playmaking will keep him at the top of the list.
13. Charlie McAvoy, D, Boston Bruins
As with most players on the Boston Bruins, McAvoy's stock rose exponentially this past season, as he firmly cemented himself as one of the best defensive players in the league. His puck-moving remained the class of the field, which for somebody that rarely makes errors in his own end, is quite impressive. His ceiling will always be limited by his mediocre power play skillset, but he is one of the best 5-on-5 players out there.
14. Mitch Marner, RW, Toronto Maple Leafs
Arguably the second best passer in the league, there is no better running mate for Auston Matthews than the eternally under appreciated Marner. Though he will need to build off his performance in the most recent postseason, Marner ensures quality and quantity chances with his vision and playmaking. Marner is also one of the deadliest cycle players in recent memory.
15. Sidney Crosby, C, Pittsburgh Penguins
Sidney Crosby (Getty Images)
Crosby refuses to slow down, as he returned to his consistent best in 2022-23. While his athletic gifts decline, Crosby has adjusted by developing a more coherent game, particularly in the offensive zone. Though perhaps not as talented as those in this tier, there aren't many that can match the methodical zone entries and possession play of "Sid the Kid."
16. Mikko Rantanen, RW, Colorado Avalanche
After a 50-goal, 100-point season, Rantanen's game is continuing to elevate. One of the most difficult players to defend in the league from my perspective, he's a clever player between the seams. He combines that puck play with one of the most wicked releases in the entire league. It is worth noting that Rantanen's game does rely heavily on Nathan MacKinnon's playmaking, but as an individual, he remains a dangerous player.
17. Aleksander Barkov, C, Florida Panthers
Barkov is arguably the most complete player in the NHL. The heir to Pavel Datsyuk, Barkov dominates at even strength, despite being restricted by a defensive onus, but he is also a weapon on both special teams units. While the Finn cannot dominate a game, few are as effective and efficient against elite competition.
18. Elias Pettersson, C, Vancouver Canucks
This internally seems rather harsh on Pettersson, but I would like to see slightly more sustained elite play by Vancouver's talisman. People underrate Pettersson's defensive abilities, but overrate his offensive impacts. The Swede began to rely more on his shot this season, which was a welcome evolution to his game and his playmaking translated to transitional excellence. Expect Pettersson to score 85 points and receive Selke votes next season.
19. Miro Heiskanen, D, Dallas Stars
As Heiskanen's defensive impacts waned in 2022-23, he became a much more effective point producer. Potentially the second best puck-carrying blueliner in the NHL, behind Cale Makar, Heiskanen has great hands on the rush. His chance prevention against transition attacks is utterly ridiculous. We will need to see Heiskanen combine his newfound defensive acumen with his prior dynamism this season, but if he does, Heiskanen could become a top-10 player before long.
20. Brayden Point, C, Tampa Bay Lightning
Brayden Point (Getty Images)
Even I forgot that Brayden Point scored 50 goals last season before I began to research for this article, a testament to his quietly efficient production. Though Point has never delivered on his defensive potential, Point is a lethal finisher that has developed playmaking skills that serve him well as a transition-based centre.
21. Mark Stone, RW, Vegas Golden Knights
At his usual two-way dominant self during Vegas' Cup run, Stone returned to his excellent form after dealing with a multitude of injuries. He's been the best defensive winger in the league for several years, but 2022-23 saw his passing metrics become world-class. In terms of a player who can hold his own in all three zones, there aren't many better options than Stone.
22. Johnny Gaudreau, LW, Columbus Blue Jackets
Though Gaudreau regressed heavily in Columbus, he remained a point-per-game ace on a much less talented Blue Jackets squad. With a more skilled squad after major investment in the free agent market, Gaudreau is set for a return to his 90-point form. His microstats remained excellent and there were several moments when Gaudreau showcased his craftiness in the offensive zone. Don't count him out yet.
23. Roman Josi, D, Nashville Predators
In a league dominated by speedy defenders, Josi continues to go from strength to strength, despite being 33 years old. Though his point totals weren't as gaudy this past season, Josi's chance prevention numbers actually improved. He remains a smooth skater, capable of executing difficult plays in transition. With a promise of more speed on Nashville's roster this season, the Swiss rearguard will still be able to rack up assists.
24. Sebastian Aho, C, Carolina Hurricanes
Though Aho never jumps off the page, mainly because he is a part of a highly team-oriented system in Carolina, he remains the greatest rival to Sasha Barkov in terms of pure versatility. Aho is great, if not excellent, at nearly every skill he attempts. Armed with a quick release, elite vision, and an unteachable commitment to forechecking, Aho is the centrepiece of the talented Hurricanes roster.
25. Jack Eichel, C, Vegas Golden Knights
Jack Eichel (Getty Images)
Few are blessed with the physical gifts that Eichel possesses. Though his microstats don't jump off the page like others in this tier, Eichel's blend of speed and physicality make him a major threat off the rush. In the playoffs, I noticed a new element of playmaking in his game that he hasn't used effectively since his draft-eligible days. Eichel should continue to improve this season.
26. Rasmus Dahlin, D, Buffalo Sabres
Dahlin's 22-23 season was the legitimate definition of a breakout. Not only did the former first overall pick post an impressive 73-point tally, he levelled up his defensive game as well. Now, firmly established as one of the league's best blueliners, it is time for an even more drastic step to develop his rush defence and become a legitimate threat in transition.
27. Tage Thomspson, C, Buffalo Sabres
One of the cornerstones of the Sabres revolution, Thompson is one of the most unique players of all time. Few are blessed with his immense frame and world-class stickhandling as individual skills, but Thompson possesses both in spades. He is one of the best offensive talents in the entire NHL. His defensive play is in need of refinement.
28. Roope Hintz, C, Dallas Stars
The perennially underrated Hintz certainly benefits from his status on a line with Jason Robertson and Joe Pavelski, but one could argue that Hintz is the true driving factor behind that trio's success. Devastating in transition, the uniquely named Finn is a rare dual threat mastermind in the modern NHL, capable of breaking defences down with a well-placed pass or an accurate shot.
29. Brad Marchand, LW, Boston Bruins
Though Marchand will have less help around him this season following the retirements of David Krejci and Patrice Bergeron, he was still his typical self in 2022-23. Few can create space for their teammates better than the much-maligned pest, though it would be reasonable to expect a drop-off of sorts for the Bruins stalwart in his age-35 season.
30. William Nylander, RW, Toronto Maple Leafs
William Nylander (Getty Images)
In my opinion, Nylander is the best third option in the entire NHL. Though his tendency to avoid physical situations may draw the ire of some Leafs fans, Nylander can create offence out of nothing. Speedy and creative, he offers the transitional threat that Toronto otherwise lacks. He has also drastically improved as a finisher in recent seasons.
31. Jaccob Slavin, D, Carolina Hurricanes
The man with the most active stick in the whole league, Slavin has started to garner plaudits in the last few seasons for breaking down plays with his intelligence and clever use of his hockey stick. While his offensive game may pale in comparison to others in this tier, he is no slouch in the puck-moving department either.
32. Victor Hedman, D, Tampa Bay Lightning
Hedman is clearly no longer capable of taking the burden of carrying the entire Lightning D-corps any longer, but he remains excellent in many departments. The Swedish rearguard offers a frightening shot from the point and he is still the king of the breakout pass. Perhaps, in more sheltered minutes, Hedman could preserve his dwindling offensive game and return to Norris Trophy form.
33. Devon Toews, D, Colorado Avalanche
Long before he was acquired by the Avalanche, Toews has been one of the most underrated puck-movers in the NHL. However, in the Colorado spotlight, Toews has emerged as an analytical darling, with or without Cale Makar by his side. I have drawn parallels to Toews and prime Alex Pietrangelo: two elite passers that are equally comfortable in their own end as they are moving the puck up the ice.
34. Nico Hischier, C, New Jersey Devils
While the Swiss star is destined to remain in Jack Hughes' shadow, Hischier is set to announce himself to the greater NHL fanbase now that Patrice Bergeron has retired. Hischier has officially inherited the throne as best defensive centre in the game, which is no easy feat. In addition, 2022-23 saw Hischier dramatically improve his playmaking and rush offence.
35. Tim Stutzle, C, Ottawa Senators
Tim Stutzke (Getty Images)
The youngest player in my top 50, Stutzle did not wither under the increased pressure that Senators management placed on him last season; in fact, he soared to new heights. Few players scream superstar like the young German phenom, who had always been a crafty talent, but is now more dominant in the offensive zone and much more defensively productive at even strength.
36. Erik Karlsson, D, Pittsburgh Penguins
Arguably the most impromptu comeback in recent memory, Karlsson went from being a defensive pumpkin to rediscovering his form as the most dazzling defenseman on the planet. Obviously, he's still severely flawed defensively, but nobody can move the puck or dangle past opponents on the rush like Erik Karlsson can.
37. Timo Meier, LW, New Jersey Devils
Meier's stint in New Jersey hasn't yielded major dividends so far, but he is too talented to not kick off as a Devil. He's a versatile shot creator and an elite finisher. Though it is easy to fall into the power forward trope, Meier is so much more than that. He's genuinely dangerous on the rush and he is quite active defensively, too.
38. Pavel Buchnevich, LW, St. Louis Blues
Described by many as a versatile and competitive weapon that most contenders would love to have, Buchnevich is not just a Swiss army knife player; he's legitimately a world-class talent and one of the most underrated wingers in the world. Effective at both ends of the ice at 5-on-5, Buchnevich is great in tradition and he wields a wicked one-timer.
39. Dougie Hamilton, D, New Jersey Devils
A bit of a shot spammer at times, Hamilton is the neo-Brent Burns: an excellent offensive talent that occasionally neglects his defensive duties. Regardless, there may only be two blueliners in the NHL (Karlsson and Makar) that can match what Hamilton brings to the table in the offensive zone. He's a huge part of New Jersey's possession-heavy structure.
40. Artemi Panarin, LW, New York Rangers
Artemi Panarin (Getty Images)
Similar to Mitch Marner, Panarin's unreal vision and passing ability makes the Russian one of the best cycle players in the league. Not many can spot an open teammate like 'the Bread Man,' a generational playmaker that makes New York's power play tick.
41. Clayton Keller, LW, Arizona Coyotes
Though his opportunity to show off is limited by his teammates' skill in Arizona, Keller is one of the most efficient and effective offensive zone players of the past decade. The American stud rarely wastes a chance, whether it be through his rocket of a release or his high-danger pass creation. As the Coyotes grow as an organization, expect more volume of OZ time to correlate with Keller's rise up this list.
42. Quinn Hughes, D, Vancouver Canucks
The newest captain of the Vancouver Canucks, Quinn Hughes is a phenomenal skater and passer that finally rectified his poor even strength numbers by dramatically improving his defensive play last year. Blessed with extreme talent as a puck-mover, I'd like to see Hughes be slightly less tentative and take control of the team as a true captain would do. This could unlock the next step for him and the franchise.
43. Carter Verhaeghe, LW, Florida Panthers
Yet another highly underrated left winger pilfering the league, Verhaeghe is a terrifying transition threat, due to his speed, his vision and his elite finishing ability. Verhaeghe can absolutely rip the puck, as proven in the 22-23 postseason. He's also very engaged in the forecheck, which is rare for such a talented offensive player.
44. Brady Tkachuk, LW, Ottawa Senators
I genuinely believe that Tkachuk is the best crease player in the NHL. He is so sneaky and skilled with the puck in tight areas, while he provides a big body for deflections and tips. His ability in the personal areas is undeniable, but Matthew's brother has improved his checking ability on the wall, helping him be a more positive contributor to cycle play.
45. Alex Pietrangelo, D, Vegas Golden Knights
Alex Pietrangelo (Getty Images)
Pietrangelo went back in time in 2022-23, re-establishing himself as an excellent two-way defenseman. He's a true minute muncher that can excel in almost any role, be it as a shutdown defender or a power play quarterback. Pietrangelo is still a fantastic puck mover, while he improved his chance prevention stats significantly during the Cup run.
46. Mika Zibanejad, C, New York Rangers
One of the top run-and-gun offensive talents, Zibanejad isn't as well rounded as many others in this list, but he provides a guaranteed spark of offence in any circumstance. His deadly one-timer is not to be underestimated, while the Swedish centre is also a great passer. Crucially, in a declining age of actual power play specialists, Zibanejad lives for the man advantage.
47. Mackenzie Weegar, D, Calgary Flames
I never stopped believing in Mackenzie Weegar, despite Calgary's failure of a season. Weegar's pace and defensive IQ are the leading factors behind his status as one of the league's top neutral zone players. Similarly to Jacob Slavin, Weegar has an excellent defensive awareness to break up attacks, but he's also deceptively quick and a phenomenal passer in transition.
48. Dylan Larkin, C, Detroit Red Wings
Expected to centre a line with Alex Debrincat and Lucas Raymond, this is the time for Larkin to announce himself as a true franchise player. He's a great two-way talent, as he effectively uses his quick feet to make an impact in the offensive and defensive zones. Though he doesn't jump out with his microstats, Larkin is at least solid in nearly every department. That value can't be overstated.
49. Nikolaj Ehlers, RW, Winnipeg Jets
It wouldn't be a Sincere Sports article without some Nikolaj Ehlers prop. My favourite non-Leaf in the NHL, Ehlers did not get the ice time spike that we expected following Rick Bowness' appointment. However, with Blake Wheeler gone, Ehlers should receive a platform to display his world-class skill and speed combo.
50. Shea Theodore, D, Vegas Golden Knights
Shea Theodore (Getty Images)
Though not as effective in as many situations as Pietrangelo, Theodore was still a strong power-play quarterback in 2022-23. His chance creation remains the cream of the crop along D-men, but his defensive struggles tend to rear their ugly head on occasion. Nevertheless, if Theodore can patch out those mistakes from his game, he'll get his flowers as one of the best puck-moving defensemen out there.
GOALIES
1. Ilya Sorokin, G, New York Islanders
Sorokin's aggressiveness is to be commended. He challenges shooters in any possible circumstance, which he makes up for with his lightning-quick movements and his elite read of the game. Sorokin is inarguably the most talented goalkeeper in the league right now. Some simple refinements could make Sorokin unstoppable.
2. Igor Shesterkin, G, New York Rangers
Shesterkin is the rare exception to the rule that goalies are drastically inconsistent, due to his excellent technical base. He's a very smart goalie that knows how to size up to shooters and how to cover his posts. While he isn't as athletically gifted as Sorokin or Saros, Shesterkin is a commodity for his guaranteed elite play.
3. Juuse Saros, G, Nashville Predators
Solely based on basic fundamentals, Saros is not a match for the dominant Russian trio. However, Nashville's netminder has phenomenal east-west speed in his movement and is thus capable of some incredible feats of athleticism. Nashville was blessed with Pekka Rinne in the past generation, but Saros may be even better.
4. Andrei Vasilevskiy, G, Tampa Bay Lightning
Andrei Vasilevskiy (Getty Images)
Andrei Vasilevskiy is a complete freak of nature, nobody can deny that. However, his lacklustre performance in the first round showcased his weakness to the world. While 'Vasy' struggles with deflections from the point, he remains flexible and comfortable to a degree that very few goaltenders can mimic.
5. Connor Hellebuyck, G, Winnipeg Jets
Hellebuyck is probably under appreciated, due to Winnipeg's inadequate team defense, but the American goalie poses the most imposing figure on the shooter of any netminder in the league. Though he doesn't challenge shooters like Sorokin, he covers up such a large portion of the net with his stable, conservative stance.
ALL STATS COURTESY OF EVOLVING HOCKEY, TOPDOWNHOCKEY AND MONEYPUCK
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