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For every NHL team, securing a powerful one-two punch at center is an ideal scenario. Elite centers are not only challenging to obtain through trades or free agency, but they are also highly valued compared to similarly skilled wingers.
For the past three years, we have analyzed the caliber of the top-six centers for every NHL team in anticipation of the upcoming season.
Creating a definitive ranking from No. 1 to No. 32 is largely ineffective since the difference between a team with, say, the 10th and 16th best center duo is minimal. Therefore, it is more logical to categorize them into tiers where the distinctions are clearer. Within these tiers, teams are not ranked in any specific sequence.
Teams are categorized into tiers solely based on their expectations for the 2024-25 season — contract values are not considered, and we aren’t accounting for potential future developments beyond this season.
Tier 1: Generational
Edmonton Oilers: Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl
What more is left for McDavid and Draisaitl to demonstrate aside from winning the Stanley Cup?
McDavid is unequivocally the best player in the world, a fact he solidified during the playoffs by surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s record for the most assists in a single playoff run. Draisaitl has also achieved a scoring pace of 100 points or more for six straight seasons, a milestone that no active player except McDavid can claim.
Both McDavid and Draisaitl deserve accolades for their exceptional performances in the postseason. McDavid has amassed 95 points in 53 games over his last three playoff appearances (translating to a 147-point pace over an 82-game season), while Draisaitl follows closely with 81 points in 53 games (yielding a 125-point pace). When the stakes are highest, these two consistently excel.
Chicago Blackhawks: Connor Bedard and Philipp Kurashev
Few first-line centers in the NHL had less support than Bedard during the last season. According to Natural Stat Trick, the forwards who logged the most five-on-five minutes alongside him were Philipp Kurashev, Nick Foligno, and Ryan Donato. This context makes Bedard’s near-point-per-game performance as an 18-year-old rookie even more remarkable. While he must refine some defensive aspects of his game, Bedard seems ready for an impressive sophomore season, as he benefits from an enhanced supporting cast and a year of experience.
Kurashev, who played as a winger on Bedard’s line last season, will take on the role of Chicago’s second-line center this year. The 24-year-old recorded 54 points last year, with a significant portion of that success stemming from his time alongside Bedard at even strength and on the top power-play unit. His offensive output will likely decline this season. While Kurashev can serve as a temporary second-line center during this rebuilding phase, he is expected to fit more as a third-line forward in the long run.
Montreal Canadiens: Nick Suzuki and Kirby Dach
Suzuki capped off a remarkable year, achieving a career-high of 77 points while also contributing positively to defensive outcomes. Many would classify him among the top 15 to 20 centers in the league.
Montreal faces uncertainties at the second-line center position, where Dach is being evaluated. The initial concern with Dach is his ability to maintain health throughout the full season. The 2019 No. 3 overall pick managed to participate in only two games last season and appeared in fewer than 60 games during his inaugural season with the Canadiens. Furthermore, he played just 18 games with Chicago in 2020-21.
Additionally, although Dach had a standout breakout season in 2022-23, accumulating 38 points in 58 games, much of his contribution came while playing on the wing with Suzuki instead of centering his own line. He has yet to demonstrate the capability to thrive as a top-six center. While there’s no doubt he will be a significant part of Montreal’s forward lineup, his skills might be better utilized playing on the wing rather than in the center position. Complicating matters is the injury to Patrik Laine, who was expected to play on Dach’s right wing.
Dach is more likely to succeed in the second-line role compared to others in his tier; however, Aho and Bedard are expected to outshine Suzuki, creating a balance.
Detroit Red Wings: Dylan Larkin and J.T. Compher
Larkin has consistently posted point-per-game numbers over the past three seasons, serving as the driving force behind the Red Wings’ offense. The team appears to struggle significantly whenever he is sidelined due to injury, highlighting his irreplaceable nature. Many would classify Larkin as a solid first-line center, as he may not be elite or a clear-cut superstar, yet he is undeniably an excellent player who elevates the performance of those around him.
Compher had a quietly successful first season in Detroit, tallying 48 points across 77 games. Nonetheless, he serves as merely a serviceable
In 75 games, he tallied 44 points, but his offensive play-driving metrics have also plummeted. Fortunately for Lindholm, he is unlikely to bear the burden of offensive responsibilities alone, as he is expected to be paired with David Pastrňák. Teaming up with Pastrňák should allow Lindholm to thrive in a supporting role and potentially return to the 65-point range. Nevertheless, it is more accurate to consider Lindholm as a high-end second-line center rather than a true first-line presence.
Last season, Coyle faced significant pressure due to the Bruins’ shortage of elite centers. He managed to put up solid numbers, finishing with 60 points, but he is still better suited for a third-line center position rather than a top-six role. His two-way performance declined under the increased pressure, with Boston controlling just 45 percent of five-on-five shot attempts during his shifts. Additionally, he had a tough playoff run, scoring only one goal in 13 games.
Nashville Predators: Ryan O’Reilly and Thomas Novak
O’Reilly surpassed all expectations in his inaugural season with Nashville, amassing 69 points—his best offensive showing since 2020-21, when he approached a point-per-game pace. Alongside this, he posted solid, if not elite, defensive numbers. Considering last year’s output is likely an anomaly in relation to his recent performances—where he recorded just 30 points in 53 games in 2022-23 and 58 points in 2021-22—and with him now being 33, a slight decline in his offensive statistics is probable this season. O’Reilly has aged relatively well, but at this point in his career, he ranks as a low-end first-line center.
There is considerable enthusiasm regarding Novak, a talented and skillful playmaker, as he is projected to be paired with Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault. This enticing combination suggests a potential offensive breakout, particularly as Novak has achieved 95 points across 149 career games (averaging a pace of 52 points). Nevertheless, Novak has defensive shortcomings and his performance during last year’s playoffs indicated he has yet to solidify his position as a genuine second-line center. He went without a point in the first round against the Canucks, who effectively pushed him to the periphery. In the playoffs, Novak logged a mere 10:31 of ice time per game.
Anaheim Ducks: Mason McTavish and Leo Carlsson
In the future, McTavish and Carlsson will form an exceptional one-two punch. Their growth has just begun, although for this analysis, we are focused solely on the current season. Realistically, it’s unlikely that either will rank among the top 15-20 centers in the league this year.
McTavish significantly contributed offensively, accumulating 42 points in 64 games during his sophomore year. He possesses an exciting offensive skill set characterized by both playmaking and scoring abilities. However, like many young centers, he has defensive areas that require improvement.
Standing tall at 6-foot-3, boasting smooth puckhandling and elite playmaking vision, Carlsson showcases significant breakout potential for 2024-25. I am confident he will evolve into a franchise center one day, but at just 19 years old, he is fresh off a rookie season in which he registered 29 points in 55 games.
The Ducks might achieve above-average results from the second-center position, yet they will likely be overpowered at the first-line center role by most teams this season.
Minnesota Wild: Ryan Hartman and Joel Eriksson Ek
Eriksson Ek has established himself as a defensive powerhouse, placing in the top 10 for Selke Trophy voting over four consecutive years while steadily enhancing his offensive performance. The tall and lanky center has seen his point totals increase for five straight seasons, culminating in 64 points last year. Although Eriksson Ek remains underrated in the league, he would not secure a position as the No. 1 center on most playoff-contending teams.
Despite Marco Rossi’s impressive rookie year, Hartman will initially center the Kirill Kaprizov line. Previously, Hartman found some success with Kaprizov, notching 65 points in the 2021-22 season, but he struggled to maintain that level of production and has shuffled through the lineup in recent campaigns. Hartman does not fit the mold of a full-time top-six center.
Washington Capitals: Dylan Strome and Pierre-Luc Dubois
Strome broke out with 65 points in his first season with the Capitals, following up with 67 points last year. The skillful playmaker has incorporated goal-scoring into his repertoire and showcases solid play-driving statistics despite a reputation for defensive weaknesses and a need for sheltered minutes prior to his arrival in D.C. Nonetheless, Strome would not be a No. 1 center for the majority of NHL teams, and this lack of a true first-line center is what places the Capitals in this tier.
Despite the challenges posed by Dubois’ contract and his underwhelming performance in Los Angeles, last year’s 40-point outing stands out as an anomaly. Dubois has a long history of performing as a second-line center, typically scoring around 60 points; with a more prominent role in Washington than he had in L.A., he is expected to return to that production level.
Winnipeg Jets: Mark Scheifele and Vladislav Namestnikov
Scheifele has long been known for his offensive gifts, and last season was no exception, as he racked up 72 points in 74 games. Yet, his history indicates a one-dimensional“`html
No. 2 center (similar to his time in Colorado) alongside Backlund, who would serve as an effective third-line checking center. Following the Lindholm trade, both players find themselves positioned one slot higher in the lineup than is optimal, but that’s acceptable considering the Flames are in a retool/rebuild phase.
Kadri led the Flames last season with 75 points, which was 16 points more than the next closest teammate. He accomplished this while still posting solid defensive statistics. Kadri serves as a prime veteran presence to support Calgary’s rising young players both on and off the ice.
In contrast, Backlund is beginning to experience a decline in his offensive output at the age of 35. He dropped from 56 points to 39 last season, although his defensive stats continue to be strong.
Tier 8: Young Developing Talent/Needs Improvement
San Jose Sharks: Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith
Once Celebrini and Smith hit their prime, the Sharks could feature one of the league’s premier one-two punches at center. While Celebrini and Smith are expected to showcase flashes of brilliance this season, it is unrealistic to anticipate dominance from them as rookie teenagers. They will likely face challenges and learning moments, particularly in terms of playing two-way hockey.
Celebrini’s NCAA production during his draft year was comparable to that of Jack Eichel and Adam Fantilli. Eichel notched 56 points in his rookie season, while Fantilli was on track for 45 points last season before an injury. Celebrini will probably have more opportunities than Fantilli, who averaged less than 16 minutes per game, making it reasonable to expect him to surpass 50 points. Achieving more than 50 points as an 18-year-old rookie would be a remarkable accomplishment, yet it won’t reflect the expectations for a true No. 1 center.
Celebrini and Smith are set to ascend these rankings in the coming years; however, we will keep our expectations for their rookie seasons measured and realistic.
Columbus Blue Jackets: Sean Monahan and Adam Fantilli
Monahan may not qualify as a genuine first-line center, but he will serve as an effective veteran stopgap for the rebuilding Blue Jackets while players like Fantilli and Cayden Lindstrom develop. He enjoyed a fantastic bounce-back year last season, accumulating 59 points. Hopefully, he can maintain his health and continue to produce in the 50-60 point range.
Fantilli is one of my top candidates for a breakout season in 2024-25. The 2023 No. 3 overall pick possesses a powerful frame, impressive skating ability (ranking in the top 10 percent of all NHL forwards for speed bursts exceeding 20 miles per hour), exceptional puck skills, and relentless energy. He is expected to take on a considerably larger role in his sophomore season and could very well evolve into the team’s best forward by the season’s end.
Columbus has a bright long-term outlook at center, but they won’t move up the ranks until one of their younger players develops into a bona fide No. 1 center.
Utah Hockey Club: Logan Cooley and Barrett Hayton
Cooley’s development from Game 1 through to Game 82 was remarkable to observe. The 2022 No. 3 pick encountered
Beniers is set to break out in Year 3 after experiencing a sophomore slump. He is also an accomplished and sophisticated two-way player at this stage. Nevertheless, even if he achieves a score of 60 points while also delivering solid defensive outcomes, it still wouldn’t reflect a genuine 1C-caliber performance.
The upcoming transition for Stephenson to Seattle will be intriguing to observe. Last season, this quick playmaking center recorded 51 points, which remains respectable for a 2C, but several warning signs warrant attention. First, Stephenson’s defensive statistics deteriorated significantly last year. He allowed five-on-five scoring chances and expected goals against at the poorest rate among all Vegas forwards during the 2023-24 season. Additionally, he must demonstrate his ability to thrive in a top-six role without the support of Mark Stone, an elite winger, as his linemate.
Seattle’s center situation reflects the overall construction of the team’s roster; while the depth is exceptional (with Shane Wright and Yanni Gourde centering the bottom-six lines), the top-line scoring potential is rather lackluster.
Philadelphia Flyers: Sean Couturier and Morgan Frost
Couturier started strong, amassing 21 points in his initial 26 games and performing as an above-average two-way play driver. However, he played through injuries in the latter half of the season, undergoing sports hernia surgery at the end of the year, which resulted in a decline in both his production and defensive metrics. This included a few contentious healthy scratches shortly after being named captain. Ultimately, Couturier concluded the season with 38 points, falling short of the expected output for a 1C. Yet, considering he missed almost two years of action due to severe injuries, the dedication he has shown to return as an effective NHL player is commendable.
Frost continues to seek his role as a long-term asset in the Flyers’ core. This talented playmaking center faced being a healthy scratch at times during the first half of the season and has not always proven to be a dependable defensive presence. However, he improved significantly after the midpoint of the season, finishing with 41 points in 71 games. Frost possesses intriguing potential, though he has yet to demonstrate the consistency required to be regarded as a true top-six center.
(Top photo: Curtis Comeau / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Breaking Down the NHL’s Top-Six Center Duos: A Tiered Ranking Ahead of the 2024-25 Season
Understanding the Importance of Center Duos
In the NHL, the center position is crucial for both offensive and defensive play. The top-six centers often dictate the pace of the game, contribute significantly to scoring, and play pivotal roles in special teams. Here’s why understanding the top duos is essential:
- Offensive Synergy: Effective center pairings can generate more scoring opportunities.
- Defensive Balance: Strong two-way play from center duos aids in maintaining team structure.
- Depth and Versatility: Teams with robust center depth have more options during matchups.
Tiered Rankings of the NHL’s Top-Six Center Duos
Based on performance metrics, team dynamics, and individual skill sets, here’s a tiered ranking of the NHL’s top-six center duos ahead of the 2024-25 season.
Tier 1: Elite Duos
| Center Duo | Team | Key Stats (2023-24) |
|---|---|---|
| Connor McDavid & Leon Draisaitl | Edmonton Oilers | Combined 220 points |
| Nathan MacKinnon & Mikko Rantanen | Colorado Avalanche | Combined 195 points |
| Auston Matthews & John Tavares | Toronto Maple Leafs | Combined 190 points |
These duos are synonymous with high-scoring games and clutch performances. Their ability to create and convert scoring opportunities makes them a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Tier 2: Strong Contenders
| Center Duo | Team | Key Stats (2023-24) |
|---|---|---|
| Jack Eichel & Mark Stone | Vegas Golden Knights | Combined 165 points |
| Brayden Point & Steven Stamkos | Tampa Bay Lightning | Combined 180 points |
| Sidney Crosby & Evgeni Malkin | Pittsburgh Penguins | Combined 158 points |
These duos bring not only skill but also leadership and experience, making them invaluable during playoff pushes.
Tier 3: Rising Stars
| Center Duo | Team | Key Stats (2023-24) |
|---|---|---|
| Trevor Zegras & Troy Terry | Anaheim Ducks | Combined 140 points |
| Tim Stützle & Josh Norris | Combined 125 points | |
| Kirill Kaprizov & Mats Zuccarello | Minnesota Wild | Combined 150 points |
These younger duos are not just future stars; they are already making significant impacts on their respective teams.
Factors Influencing Rankings
Several factors contribute to the ranking of these center duos:
- Point Production: Goals and assists accumulated during the regular season.
- Defensive Contributions: Plus/minus rating and effectiveness on the penalty kill.
- Durability: Injury history and ability to stay on the ice during crucial games.
Benefits of Strong Center Duos
Having potent center duos can transform a team’s performance in various ways:
- Enhanced Scoring Capability: Offensive pressure leads to more goals and wins.
- Playoff Success: Teams with strong center duos often perform better in the postseason.
- Team Morale: High-performing duos can uplift the entire team’s performance.
Case Studies of Successful Duos
McDavid and Draisaitl: A Historic Partnership
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl form one of the most potent offensive duos in NHL history. Their chemistry is palpable on the ice, leading to record-breaking seasons and consistent playoff appearances for the Edmonton Oilers.
Crosby and Malkin: Legacy of Success
Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin have been the backbone of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ success, with multiple Stanley Cup championships under their belts. Their two-way play and leadership have set benchmarks for future generations.
First-Hand Experiences with Center Duos
Fans and analysts often note the palpable difference in gameplay when elite center duos take the ice. For instance, during the 2023-24 playoffs, the synergy between Jack Eichel and Mark Stone was evident as they dominated the opposition with strategic plays and timely goals.
Conclusion: The Future of Center Duos in the NHL
As the NHL progresses into the 2024-25 season, teams will continue to rely heavily on their top-six centers. With emerging talents and established stars, the dynamics of center duos will play a critical role in shaping the league’s future. Monitoring the performance of these duos will be essential for fans and analysts alike.
