Hockey is truly the pinnacle of team sports, and having the best player globally does not ensure a team will secure a championship title. However, when a team boasts two of the league’s elite players, it certainly increases its chances, as demonstrated by the Edmonton Oilers last season, who fell just one win short of capturing the Stanley Cup.
In a spoiler alert, Connor McDavid has once again claimed the top spot in our ranking of the top 100 NHL players for the 2024-25 season, replicating his previous placements in 2023-24, 2022-23, 2021-22, and so on. But where does Leon Draisaitl fit into this ranking? Additionally, what about Aleksander Barkov and Matthew Tkachuk of the Florida Panthers, who triumphed over the Oilers in the Cup Final?
We conducted a survey of over 50 ESPN broadcasters, analysts, reporters, and editors to evaluate players based on their projected performance in the 2024-25 season relative to their counterparts. The focus was primarily on their anticipated contribution for the upcoming season, which explains why some players currently sidelined due to injuries may rank lower than they would if fully fit.
Contributions come from ESPN reporters Ryan S. Clark, Kristen Shilton, Greg Wyshynski, and the editorial team.
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2023-24 rank: 65
Age: 32
Toffoli was among the veterans acquired to assist in the team’s rebuild, finishing the 2023-24 season with 33 goals, scored while playing for both the Devils and Jets. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 99
Age: 33
While much of the spotlight during the summer was on the Predators’ signings of Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault, O’Reilly may prove even more crucial to their ascent among the top Cup contenders. He is an elite two-way center. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 52
Age: 30
Although Connor Bedard faced challenges during his rookie season with the Blackhawks, Jones’ underlying statistics remained relatively favorable. Will the 30-year-old continue to be part of the roster during the rebuilding phase, or will he be traded for picks and prospects as the deadline approaches? — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 43
Age: 30
Lindholm’s impressive 53-point performance in the 2022-23 season was followed by a decline in 2023-24, where he tallied just 26 points. What trajectory will the 30-year-old Swede take this season? — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 79
Age: 30
Recognized as one of the NHL’s elite defensive defensemen, he was honored as the “most gentlemanly” player for the 2023-24 season, receiving the Lady Byng Trophy. His performance will be crucial this year, especially since the Hurricanes saw several defensemen depart via free agency this summer. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 89
Age: 25
The 25-year-old continues to rise in prominence, surpassing a point-per-game pace for the first time this season with 86 points in 82 games. Thomas will be essential for the Blues as they aim to secure a playoff spot. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 28
Dunn missed a significant portion of the 2023-24 season, which may have contributed to the Kraken’s failure to reach the playoffs. The 28-year-old is still on an upward trajectory and will play a vital role during even-strength situations and on the power play. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 21
After finishing his rookie season as a Calder Trophy finalist, Hughes graced the cover of EA Sports NHL 25 alongside his brothers Quinn and Jack. He is poised to be a pivotal figure in the Devils’ aspirations, both in the short and long term. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 84
Age: 34
A reliable presence among Western Conference defensemen, the 34-year-old continues to deliver high performance, recording 33 points and averaging 23:33 of ice time per game last season. — ESPN staff
Editor’s Picks
2 Related
<2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 28
If the Panthers created a poster showcasing their “bad boys” from the 2024 playoff journey, Bennett would take center stage — potentially becoming Public Enemy No. 1 in Boston. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 38
As he embarks on his 19th NHL season, Malkin’s production has slightly decreased from his earlier dominant years. Nevertheless, he continues to be impactful both at even strength and during power plays for a Penguins squad that is aiming for one final remarkable playoff run with its seasoned veterans. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 66
Age: 26
DeBrincat has proven himself to be a dynamic scoring winger, registering 27 goals in two consecutive seasons. Will he return to the 40-goal form he achieved twice earlier in his career? — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 27
Ingram, a late bloomer, bravely defended a determined Coyotes team last season. However, like his teammates, his performance dipped amid the swirling rumors about the team’s possible relocation. Now based in Utah, he is expected to provide reliable goaltending as UHC aims for playoff contention this season. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 22
Drafted fourth overall in 2020, Raymond has lived up to expectations by taking on an increasingly pivotal role for Detroit. He is set to continue making an impact after signing an eight-year deal worth $64.6 million this offseason. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 28
Kempe has steadily climbed up the ranks and was nearly registering a point per game last season (75 points in 77 games). He plays a crucial role as the Kings strive to advance past the first round of the playoffs this year. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 30
The “other guy”
In the 2022 trade that involved Matthew Tkachuk going to Florida in exchange for Jonathan Huberdeau, Weegar has proven himself to be a formidable player. He showcased his talent with a 52-point performance during the 2023-24 season for a Calgary team undergoing significant changes. – ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 97
Age: 36
While Bobrovsky may no longer be at the height of his Vezina Trophy-winning form, the experienced goaltender demonstrated his ability to deliver in crucial playoff moments. With his name now etched on the Stanley Cup, the narrative of “Playoff Bob” continues to expand. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 75
Age: 30
Toews has established himself as much more than simply Cale Makar’s supporting player; he has become an essential component of the Avalanche’s success in recent years, contributing on both special teams and during even-strength play. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 93
Age: 34
Although he is no longer the point-per-game player he once was, the seasoned center still plays a vital role in both even strength and power play situations for Toronto. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 23
Last season, especially during the playoffs, made it clear that the 2020 No. 1 pick is living up to the expectations the Rangers had for him at that draft. Be on the lookout. – ESPN staff
2024-25 Stanley Cup Favorites
2023-24 rank: 81
Age: 26
Despite the Devils experiencing a notable decline as a team last season, Bratt continued to shine with a career-high 83 points. The 26-year-old may just be on the verge of reaching the next level of stardom. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 32
Hyman had a breakout season with 54 goals in 2023-24, playing alongside Connor McDavid and taking on a significant role in the Oilers’ power play. Will he reach the 50-goal threshold again this season? — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 100
Age: 30
Hertl’s trade from San Jose to Vegas on deadline day last season was among the most surprising moves in recent memory. With his return to a contender, how much higher can he rise? — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 68
Age: 31
Nugent-Hopkins has consistently ranked 19th in overall NHL scoring over the past three seasons and remains the longest-serving member of an Oilers team regarded as a strong candidate for the Stanley Cup this spring. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 87
Age: 30
After having played for several teams early in his career, Montour emerged as a key player over the last two seasons with the Panthers. His performance earned him a seven-year, $50 million contract with the Kraken, as the team aims to re-enter the playoff scene. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 64
Age: 27
In a notably understated fashion, Werenski managed to score 57 points in 70 games during the 2023-24 season. Selected as the No. 8 pick in the 2015 draft, he continues to be a dependable defenseman when in good health. — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 47
Age: 31
Ullmark finds himself in a contrasting scenario compared to this time last year, now no longer sharing the goaltending duties with Jeremy Swayman in Boston. Will he thrive in this new environment? — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 34
Following an extensively discussed trade that was finalized in June, Markstrom steps in as the new goalie for a formidable Devils team in need of a major goaltending upgrade. Is he capable of regaining his previous Vezina Trophy-caliber form? — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 21
Age: 22
Stutzle seemed destined for great things after a remarkable 90-point season in 2022-23. However, with a 17.1% shooting percentage that wasn’t sustainable, his goal total fell sharply, dropping from 39 to just 18 last season. What will his trajectory look like in 2024-25? — ESPN staff
2023-24 rank: 59
Age: 33
The Golden Knights bid farewell to Marchessault, a key player who had been with the team since its inception. Now, the determined forward joins Nashville, where they hope his previous 42-goal season wasn’t merely a fluke. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 42
Age: 31
Zibanejad has significantly contributed to the Rangers’ powerful power play, amassing 32 goals and 38 assists during his time on the man advantage over the last two seasons. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 33
Kreider stands out as a unique asset in the NHL: a power forward who combines incredible speed with a knack for scoring near the opponent’s net, all while excelling in penalty killing. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 21
The Stars continue to cultivate homegrown talent, with Johnston playing a pivotal role in their pursuit of a third consecutive conference finals appearance. — Clark
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 29
Verhaeghe is among the most efficient forwards in the NHL during the regular season and transforms into a key asset in the playoffs, achieving 53 points in 61 career playoff matches with the Panthers. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 44
Age: 26
Don’t be misled by the injury-riddled 2023-24 season: Thompson is still the player who scored 47 goals and provided 47 assists for the Sabres two years prior. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 31
Age: 25
Hischier has proven himself to be one of the top defensive centers in the league, and he possesses significant offensive potential as a key player for the Devils. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 37
Age: 39
Ovechkin is in need of 42 goals to surpass Wayne Gretzky’s all-time scoring record. Although he has shown a decline in speed and didn’t appear in peak form during the playoffs, give him space and the puck, and you can witness the prowess of the “Russian Machine.” — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 62
Age: 29
Regarded as one of the premier two-way centers in the NHL, Lindholm is expected to excel alongside David Pastrnak after joining the Bruins during the offseason. — Wyshynski
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2023-24 rank: 30
Age: 29
Despite having his least impressive statistical season in 2023-24, Sorokin still maintained a save percentage of .908, which is well above the league average. When at his best, few goaltenders can rival his capacity to dominate games. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 78
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Age: 23
Detroit rewarded Seider with a lucrative contract extension after he established himself as the franchise’s next top defenseman in his first three NHL seasons. – Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 69
Age: 27
While Connor may not be in the running for the Selke Trophy, it hardly matters. He consistently finds the net every season, recording the 12th highest goals per game last season in the NHL (minimum 60 games played). — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 72
Age: 31
Although Scheifele’s goal production saw a decline last season, he has been a reliable top-line offensive player for the Jets throughout the past 14 years. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 28
Forsling is often referred to by his NHL peers as the league’s most undervalued player, and it’s easy to see why. His contributions to Florida’s top defensive pairing, from 5-on-5 gameplay to exceptional penalty killing, are essential yet often overlooked. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 45
Age: 37
A two-time Selke Trophy recipient, Kopitar remains a steady two-way player for a Kings lineup that is striving to make it past the first round for the first time in ten years. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 49
Age: 31
The Devils felt Hamilton’s absence significantly last season due to his injury, as he is known for his smooth skating and precise passing, bringing a calming influence to the team. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 22
Faber showcased the skills of a seasoned veteran in his debut NHL season, accumulating 47 points while providing a stabilizing influence on the Wild’s defense corps. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 80
Age: 28
Prior to his injury last season, Demko was a leading contender for the Vezina Trophy, showcasing performances that propelled the Canucks to over 100 points. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 82
Age: 27
It was never a matter of if Boeser could score, but rather how effective he would be with a full season of health. This year marked his inaugural 40-goal season. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 55
Age: 26
With Keller and his teammates moving from Tempe to Salt Lake City, there is a possibility they might contend for a playoff position in their inaugural season. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 54
Age: 28
Larkin has achieved three consecutive 30-goal seasons as the Red Wings’ leading center, including 33 goals across 68 games last season. – Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 35
Age: 36
In his first season without Patrice Bergeron, Marchand embraced the “C” with pride and continued to deliver impressive offensive statistics for the Bruins. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 25
Joining the Top 100 for the first time, Swayman’s performances last season demonstrated his potential as a No. 1 goaltender capable of commanding a significant salary. — Clark
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 24
Dobson has shed the title of the best offensive defenseman that no one talked about, as his impressive 70-point season garnered attention across the NHL. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 88
Age: 19
Bedard, heralded as the NHL’s forthcoming superstar, showcased his talent during his rookie season, leading the Blackhawks in goals, assists, and points while clinching the Calder Trophy awarded to the league’s premier rookie. — Clark
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 24
Bouchard made his debut in the Top 100, driven by an impressive performance last season, which included 82 points in the regular season and 32 in the playoffs. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 63
Age: 29
Morrissey confirmed that his offensive surge in 2022-23 was no fluke, registering 69 points over 81 games last season with the Jets. — Wyshynski
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2023-24 rank: 91
Age: 27
Barzal’s explosive offensive skills led him to achieve his first point-per-game season since being named rookie of the year in 2017-18. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 25
Age: 26
McAvoy exemplifies why teams continue to pursue well-rounded defensemen; a strong offensive campaign in 2024-25 could position him favorably for his first Norris Trophy. – Clark
2023-24 rank: 33
Age: 34
Stamkos, a franchise icon for the Lightning, has much to demonstrate, especially since he was not re-signed despite scoring 40 goals last season. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 36
Age: 27
Hintz stands out as a two-way center who, in recent years, has proven his ability to generate and score goals while also demonstrating effectiveness in defensive roles. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 13
Age: 26
Fox clinched the Norris Trophy in the 2020-21 season and has placed among the top five candidates for this honor in four of his five NHL seasons. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 26
Age: 24
After scoring 20 goals last season, the newly appointed Sabres captain is eager to channel his personal success into helping the team break a 13-year playoff drought. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 51
Age: 29
Having led the NHL in games played for three consecutive seasons, Saros has been rewarded with a new eight-year contract as the Predators’ franchise goalie. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 12
Age: 25
Robertson’s scoring prowess is powered by his creativity and confidence, making him a formidable playmaker for the Stars. He consistently finds innovative ways to deliver goals from all areas of the ice. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 50
Age: 30
Forsberg not only boasts the best mustache in the NHL but also comes off his most productive offensive season, achieving a career-high of 48 goals. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 34
Age: 25
At 6 feet 5 inches, Oettinger exemplifies the ideal physique for an NHL goaltender. He has notched 30 or more wins in three consecutive seasons, solidifying the Stars’ status as strong contenders for the Stanley Cup. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 40
Age: 28
Nylander’s game showcases versatility, fueling his remarkable scoring ability. The Leafs remain committed to helping the ever-exciting winger succeed in the center position as well. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 14
Age: 31
The current two-time Vezina Trophy holder began the 2024-25 season merely 25 wins away from becoming the seventh American goalie in history to reach 300 career victories. — Clark
Editor’s Picks
2 Related
2023-24 rank: NA
Age: 28
After a 57-goal season that propelled him to elite scoring status in the NHL, Reinhart’s days of remaining unnoticed are over, and he has no intention of disappearing. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 38
Age: 32
Stone epitomizes steadiness, which is his true strength. He is a reliable scorer, defensively responsible, and unafraid to battle in the corners—essentially, the complete package. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 95
Age: 31
Miller’s arrival in Vancouver has transformed him from a top-nine forward into a key player with a lead role. He is coming off his first career season with 100 points, as the Canucks aim to build on last year’s division championship. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 57
Age: 30
As many teams transition to goaltending tandems, this seven-time 30-game winner remains one of the few netminders reliable enough to play over 60 games in a season. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 28
Age:
Age: 28
The unwavering core of the Rangers is their Vezina Trophy-winning goaltender. His outstanding performances, especially during the postseason, highlight his exceptional lateral movement and quick instincts in the crease. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 19
Age: 25
Tkachuk exhibits an impressive blend of physicality and skill, complemented by a passion that shines through in his energetic, and at times bone-crushing, engagements with opponents. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 16
Age: 25
Known for his puck wizardry and solid defensive play, Pettersson aims to return to the 100-point milestone he achieved two seasons ago with the Canucks. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 18
Age: 33
A six-time Norris Trophy finalist, this formidable generational defenseman steps up as captain of a Lightning team transitioning into a new era with Steven Stamkos now in Nashville. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 29
Age: 25
Heiskanen’s stock continues to rise, showcasing two consecutive seasons with over 50 points for a Stars team poised to present a formidable challenge for the Stanley Cup in the West. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 24
Age: 28
Being around elite players is often viewed as a skill. Point has flourished alongside Nikita Kucherov in Tampa Bay, and this season, he pairs with Jake Guentzel. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 27
Age: 34
To be a top defenseman in the NHL requires versatility in various situations. Josi, the 2020 Norris Trophy winner, has consistently demonstrated the ability to excel in 5-on-5, power-play, and short-handed scenarios. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 22
Age: 27
Aho’s nickname has changed over time, transitioning from “Sea Bass” to the simpler “Fishy.” However, his status as one of the NHL’s elite two-way centers remains intact, highlighted by three consecutive seasons of 30 or more goals. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 71
Age: 30
Guentzel has demonstrated that his three successive seasons of over 30 goals are no coincidence, as he is among the league’s finest net-front scorers. It’s no surprise that Tampa Bay made a significant effort to secure that level of scoring for their roster. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 17
Age: 27
2023-24 rank: 9
Age: 28
The top-line center for Vegas, Eichel, excels in playmaking for the Golden Knights while showcasing a refined two-way game. Additionally, he has the ability to enhance the performance of those around him. – Shilton
2024-25 Stanley Cup Favorites
2023-24 rank: 4
Age: 23
Recognized as one of the upcoming superstars of hockey, the middle Hughes brother has proven himself as a top-line center. Despite battling injuries this past season, he managed to record 27 goals and 74 points over 62 games. A fully healthy Hughes could potentially lead the Devils back to the playoffs after a brief hiatus. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 20
Age: 27
Marner has rightfully earned his reputation as one of the NHL’s top playmakers. However, he is also a formidable goal-scoring threat, having recorded four straight seasons with over 20 goals. – Shilton
2023-24 rank: 23
Age: 37
At 37, Crosby maintains his status as a formidable offensive player, having netted 42 goals last season while striving to keep the Penguins’ Cup aspirations alive. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 60
Age: 25
Over the past year, Hughes has garnered considerable attention, and rightly so. He transitioned from being named captain of the Canucks to bringing them close to the Western Conference finals. For his remarkable contributions, Hughes secured the Norris Trophy. This summer was particularly significant for him, as he and his brothers, Luke and Jack, graced the cover of NHL 25. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 10
Age: 28
When Pasta performs, goals follow. The Bruins winger ranks second in the NHL for goals scored over the last four seasons, achieving 47 goals and 110 points in the previous season. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 15
Age: 29
Barkov has long been considered the quintessential answer to the query “Who is the most underrated player in the NHL?” As the Panthers have gained national attention, more fans are able to appreciate what makes this two-way center one of the most all-around talented players, leading his team to the Stanley Cup in 2024. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 6
Age: 29
Draisaitl continually seeks to enhance his game, which in turn elevates those around him. He excels as both a playmaker (recording five seasons with over 100 points in the last six) and a scorer (scoring 40 or more goals in most seasons), establishing himself as a uniquely elite talent. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 7
Age: 28
Having Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar isn’t sufficient for the Avs. Rantanen, a 6-4 winger, has recorded more than 30 goals in five seasons and more than 50 assists in as many seasons. Currently, he leads the list of top players for the 2025 NHL free agency. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 32
Age: 32
Achieving personal bests in goals (49) and points (120) like Panarin did last season is impressive. Yet doing so at 32 years old, in his ninth NHL season? Panarin appears to be improving with age. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 5
Age: 27
Already a three-time Rocket Richard Trophy recipient as the league’s top goal scorer, Matthews continues to develop as one of the premier two-way centers. He has consistently maintained a high bar in Toronto across various aspects—and now the “C” on his sweater showcases that. — Shilton
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2023-24 rank: 11
Age: 26
Tkachuk is not just talented and tenacious; he is also incredibly entertaining. Serving as an elite-level pest for the Panthers, he masterfully combines physical play with significant offensive talent. — Shilton
2023-24 rank: 2
Age: 25
In the modern NHL, young, puck-moving defensemen are essential. Players like Makar, who captured the Norris Trophy as the league’s premier defenseman in 2022, exemplify this trend. His exceptional capacity to influence a game during 5-on-5 play and on the power play has been vital to the Avalanche’s success since his debut in 2018. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 3
Age: 29
The current Hart Trophy holder, honored as the league’s most valuable player, aims to enhance what was arguably his best individual season. MacKinnon’s blend of size, speed, and strength positions him as one of the NHL’s most formidable threats, with the potential to lead his team to a second Stanley Cup win since 2022. — Clark
2023-24 rank: 8
Age: 31
Kucherov significantly impacted the Lightning’s record book last season, achieving a career-high of 144 points. He became the fifth player in NHL history to accumulate 100 assists in a single season. In terms of point production over the last decade, only one player can claim better performance than Kucherov. — Wyshynski
2023-24 rank: 1
Age: 27
The best player in hockey stood just one win away from a historic achievement as he led the Oilers back from a 3-0 deficit in the Stanley Cup Final. Statistically, he is unparalleled; McDavid leads the scoring charts by over 120 points compared to the next highest scorer in the past decade. It is merely a matter of time before his dominance translates into a championship victory. — Wyshynski
2024-25 NHL Player Rankings: McDavid Leads the Pack as Top Stars Prepare for the Season
Overview of the 2024-25 NHL Season
The excitement surrounding the NHL season is palpable, as fans gear up for another thrilling year of hockey. The 2024-25 season promises to showcase incredible talent, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments on the ice. As teams finalize their rosters and prepare for training camps, the NHL player rankings are a focal point of discussion among hockey enthusiasts.
Top NHL Players to Watch in 2024-25
As we dive into the 2024-25 NHL player rankings, one name consistently stands out: Connor McDavid. The Edmonton Oilers captain continues to dominate the league with his phenomenal skills and unmatched speed. However, several other players are making headlines and are poised to make significant impacts this season. Here’s a breakdown of the top stars to watch:
1. Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers)
McDavid remains the top player in the NHL, showcasing his elite scoring ability and playmaking skills. With a remarkable points per game average and a track record of leading the Oilers to success, he is expected to shine once again.
2. Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs)
Matthews continues to be a powerhouse in the league. With his lethal shot and knack for finding the back of the net, he is a constant threat on the ice. Expect him to challenge McDavid for the scoring title this season.
3. Nathan MacKinnon (Colorado Avalanche)
MacKinnon’s speed and agility make him one of the most dynamic players in the NHL. As the Avalanche look to reclaim their championship status, MacKinnon’s performance will be crucial.
4. Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers)
As McDavid’s linemate, Draisaitl complements his skills perfectly. With a strong scoring record and excellent vision, he is a key player in the Oilers’ offensive lineup.
5. Nikita Kucherov (Tampa Bay Lightning)
Kucherov is known for his playmaking ability and offensive creativity. As the Lightning aim for another deep playoff run, Kucherov’s performance will be essential.
2024-25 NHL Player Rankings Table
| Rank | Player | Team | Position | 2023 Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Connor McDavid | Edmonton Oilers | Center | 120 |
| 2 | Auston Matthews | Toronto Maple Leafs | Center | 106 |
| 3 | Nathan MacKinnon | Colorado Avalanche | Center | 102 |
| 4 | Leon Draisaitl | Edmonton Oilers | Center | 100 |
| 5 | Nikita Kucherov | Tampa Bay Lightning | Right Wing | 95 |
Emerging Stars to Keep an Eye On
While established stars like McDavid and Matthews capture the spotlight, several emerging players are ready to make their mark in the 2024-25 season. These young talents may become household names as they continue to develop their skills.
1. Jack Hughes (New Jersey Devils)
Hughes has already shown flashes of brilliance, and with the Devils expected to improve, his growth will be closely monitored. His agility and vision make him a player to watch.
2. Cole Caufield (Montreal Canadiens)
Caufield’s scoring ability and determination set him apart as a future star. As he gains experience, his contributions will be pivotal for the Canadiens.
3. Trevor Zegras (Anaheim Ducks)
Known for his creativity and flair, Zegras is one of the most exciting young players in the league. His innovative style is sure to capture fans’ attention this season.
Practical Tips for Fans Following Player Rankings
To make the most of the NHL season and stay informed about player rankings, consider these practical tips:
- Stay Updated: Follow reliable sports news websites and NHL social media accounts for the latest player updates and rankings.
- Watch Highlights: Regularly check highlight reels to see the best plays and performances from top-ranked players.
- Engage with the Community: Join online forums and social media groups dedicated to NHL discussions to share insights and opinions.
- Utilize Fantasy Sports Platforms: Participate in fantasy hockey leagues to track player performance and rankings closely.
Case Studies: Player Performance Over the Years
Examining how players have performed in previous seasons can provide valuable insights into their future potential. Here are a few case studies of top-ranked players:
Connor McDavid: Consistency in Excellence
Since entering the NHL in 2015, McDavid has consistently ranked among the top scorers, averaging over 1.3 points per game. His ability to elevate his play during critical moments has made him a leader on and off the ice.
Auston Matthews: Goal Scoring Machine
Matthews has transformed into one of the league’s premier goal scorers, netting 40+ goals in multiple seasons. His work ethic and dedication to improvement make him a formidable competitor.
Nathan MacKinnon: The Heart of the Avalanche
MacKinnon’s leadership and clutch performance in the playoffs have solidified his reputation as one of the best. His ability to perform under pressure is a key factor in the Avalanche’s success.
Conclusion: Anticipation for the Upcoming Season
As the 2024-25 NHL season approaches, anticipation is at an all-time high. With top talent like Connor McDavid leading the charge and promising young stars emerging, fans can expect an electrifying season filled with memorable moments. Stay tuned as the rankings evolve and players showcase their skills on the ice!
