Greatest NHL Players of All Time
Mario Lemieux, center, was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1997.Take a poll about the most overlooked and underappreciated pro athletes of all, and hockey has our vote. It’s the culture. As the most humble, selfless, blood-and-guts game in sports, pucks are about team first and last. Honestly, when was the last time the NHL aggressively marketed its best players?
The league can’t even name its best players. When a handpicked panel tried just that in its 100th anniversary season, they somehow left out Evgeni Malkin, a surefire Hall of Famer whose name appears on every major career statistical list.
So we’ve the consulted a higher authority (that would be me) to give the greatest players in NHL history their just due. The criteria take into account individual statistics/all-time rankings/honors plus position played, historical significance and team performance.
OK, Boom Boom, shoot da puck.
Note: All statistics are through the 2020-21 season. Incomplete ones are marked with asterisks.
60. Tony Esposito, Goaltender
Chicago Blackhawks goalie Tony Esposito in 1977.Experience: 1968-84 (16 seasons)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks
Career statistics/82: 39.1 wins, 2.93 goals-against average, .906 save percentage
Point shares/82: 16.5
Stanley Cup championships: None
Bottom Line: Tony Esposito
Chicago Blackhawks goalie Tony Esposito makes a save against the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1977.There was a time when the three-time Vezina Trophy winner was as good as it got in the regular season, as evidenced by his 16 shutouts as a rookie. Then, the playoffs started.
The absence of a Stanley Cup championship on his resume cost "Tony O" a few spots on the list, and brother Phil deserves some of the blame for it.
In Their Own Words: Tony Esposito
Tony Esposito played 16 seasons in the NHL."I had a great time, and I always took care of my body. That's the thing some players don't. For a goalie, there's no reason he can't play until he's 40 if he takes care of himself. The reflexes are still there." —Tony Esposito
59. Tiny Thompson, Goaltender
Boston Bruins goaltender Tiny Thompson in the early 1930s.Experience: 1928-40 (12 seasons)
Teams: Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wings
Career statistics/82: 42.1 W, 2.12 GAA, N/A
Point shares/82: 15.9
Stanley Cup championships: 1 (1929)
Bottom Line: Tiny Thompson
Tiny Thompson makes a save against the Chicago Black Hawks in 1936.The four-time Vezina Trophy winner was the last line of defense on the dominant B’s teams of the 1930s decade.
He was the league leader in victories five times, goals-against average four times and shutouts three times. There was no better glove hand of his time.
Tiny fun fact: His nickname came in jest as a youth. At 5-foot-10, he was one of the bigger goalies of his era.
In Their Own Words: Tiny Thompson
Tiny Thompson, right, won one Stanley Cup."Thompson's pads have been repaired so often that there’s nothing left of the original set but the stuffing." —AP article on Tiny Thompson
58. George Hainsworth, Goaltender
George Hainsworth played 147 games with the Toronto Maple Leafs.Experience: 1926-36 (10 seasons)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs
Career statistics/82: 43.4 W, 1.93 GAA, N/A
Point shares/82: 16.6
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1930, 1931)
Bottom Line: George Hainsworth
George Hainsworth played 318 games with the Canadiens.Unless the 4-by-6 becomes 2-by-3, his 0.92 goals-against average and 22 shutouts in the 1928-29 season will never be surpassed.
The three-time Vezina Trophy recipient ranks second in GAA (1.93) on the all-time list.
In Their Own Words: George Hainsworth
George Hainsworth won two Stanley Cups."We suppose that one of the reasons hockey is such a great sport is that it demands the basic elements of man’s struggle for existence: courage, ability, and intelligence. These were the qualities which made George Hainsworth a star." —Saskatchewan Star-Phoenix obituary for George Hainsworth
57. Bobby Clarke, Center
Philadelphia Flyers center Bobby Clarke after a playoff win in 1974.Experience: 1969-1984 (15 seasons)
Teams: Philadelphia Flyers
Career statistics/82: 25.7 goals, 61.1 assists, 86.7 points, 36.3 plus-minus rating
Point shares/82: 7.6
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1974, 1975)
Bottom Line: Bobby Clarke
Philadelphia Flyers center Bobby Clarke, left, during a 1979 playoff game against the Vancouver Canucks.This three-time league Most Valuable Player was one of the all-time great leaders whose value went beyond mere numbers.
The captain was the rare superstar grinder — and he had the jack-o'-lantern grin to prove it.
In Their Own Words: Bobby Clarke
Bobby Clarke averaged 26 goals per season in his career."We take the shortest route to the puck and arrive in ill humor." —Bobby Clarke
56. Bryan Trottier, Center
New York Islanders Bryan Trottier celebrates scoring a goal against the Minnesota North Stars in 1978.Experience: 1975-94 (18 seasons)
Teams: New York Islanders, Pittsburgh Penguins
Career statistics: 33.6 G, 57.8 A, 91.4 PTS, 28.8 +/-
Point shares/82: 7.7
Stanley Cup championships: 6 (1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1991, 1992)
Bottom Line: Bryan Trottier
New York Islanders center Bryan Trottier faces off with Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Ken Wregget in 1987.The captain of the Islanders' dynasty was a winner in every way. In fact, he did so many things well, his ability to put the biscuit in the basket was overlooked at times.
"Trots" ranks 21st in points per game (1.11) and 25th in shooting percentage (.184) overall.
And he’s one of only eight players with multi five-goal games.
In Their Own Words: Bryan Trottier
Bryan Trottier won six Stanley Cups."Kid, I’m from the future. I’m you, 50 years from now. You’re looking at me like, 'You? The guy with the mustache and all the scars? What the heck happened to me?'" —Bryan Trottier
55. Steve Yzerman, Center
Detroit Red Wings center Steve Yzerman in 1997.Experience: 1983-2006 (22 seasons)
Teams: Detroit Red Wings
Career statistics: 37.5 G, 57.6 A, 95.1 PTS, 10.0 +/-
Point shares/82: 9.0
Stanley Cup championships: 3 (1997, 1998, 2002)
Bottom Line: Steve Yzerman
Detroit Red Wings center Steve Yzerman, left, fights for a loose puck against the San Jose Sharks during a playoff game in 1995.Rarely has an 18-year-old rookie entered the league and dominated so many grown men.
I’ll never forget the play at Chicago Stadium early in his career, when Steve Yzerman carried the puck into the attack zone, stickhandled around/through three defenders, then roofed a shot over the fallen goalie.
Yet that was almost routine compared his 55-foot jaw-dropper that decided Game 7 of the 1996 Western Conference semis.
In Their Own Words: Steve Yzerman
Steve Yzerman served in the Red Wings and Lightning front offices after his playing days."I wore No. 19 because of Bryan Trottier. I liked the overall aspect of his game. I liked the way he conducted himself on the ice. He was a quiet guy. He played really hard, just a good all-around, prototypical center man who could do everything." —Steve Yzerman
54. Martin Brodeur, Goaltender
New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur smokes a cigar after beating the Detroit Red Wings to win the Stanley Cup in 1995.Experience: 1991-2015 (22 seasons)
Teams: New Jersey Devils, St. Louis Blues
Career statistics/82: 44.8 W, 2.24 GAA, .912 SV%
Point shares/82: 13.4
Stanley Cup championships: 3 (1995, 2000, 2003)
Bottom Line: Martin Brodeur
New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur makes a save against the Philadelphia Flyers during a playoff game in 1995.Would you believe that some metrics say he’s ranked too high here?
While his 691 regular-season victories and 125 shutouts are the most in league history, save percentage is a better gauge of individual performance.
Take into account that the lucky Devil spent much of his career in the dead puck era, plus the ample support he received in an ultra-conservate system, and his advanced numbers are closer to very good than all-time great.
In Their Own Words: Martin Brodeur
Martin Brodeur had a .912 save percentage in his career."Do everything you need to do to keep the passion alive and never forget that it is a privilege to do what you love." —Martin Brodeur
53. Bill Cowley, Center
Bill Cowley played 508 games with the Boston Bruins.Experience: 1934-47 (13 seasons)
Teams: St. Louis Eagles, Boston Bruins
Career statistics: 29.1 G, 52.9 A, 82.0 PTS, N/A
Point shares/82: 8.5
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1939, 1941)
Bottom Line: Bill Cowley
Bill Cowley scored 195 goals in his career.An exceptional skater-stickhandler with the vision and touch to match, this three-time league assists leader and two-time Hart Trophy recipient blazed the trail for setup men in the middle.
He’s the only Hall of Famer to have spent time with the Eagles, the one-season wonders formerly known as the Ottawa Senators.
"Cowboy" fun fact: He assisted on all three of Mel "Sudden Death" Hill’s overtime goals in the 1939 semis en route to the Stanley Cup title.
In Their Own Words: Bill Cowley
Bill Cowley was a great skater and stickhandler."I’m going to win the championship, but if I don’t win it, then you can quote me as saying that the winner will be a guy named Roy Conacher. And he and another fellow named Eddie Wiseman are two reasons why I think I am going to do it again. Those fellows can plug goals from anywhere. All you have to do is feed them the puck and bang! She’s in. So it makes things kind of easy for me, doesn’t it?" —Bill Cowley
52. Teemu Selanne, Right Wing
Anaheim Mighty Ducks right wing Teemu Selanne celebrates a goal in 1997.Experience: 1992-2014 (21 seasons)
Teams: Winnipeg Jets, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim/Anaheim Ducks, San Jose Sharks, Colorado Avalanche
Career statistics: 38.7 G, 43.7 A, 82.3 PTS, 5.4 +/-
Point shares/82: 9.7
Stanley Cup championships: 1 (2007)
Bottom Line: Teemu Selanne
Anaheim Ducks right wing Teemu Selanne in 2014.The "Finnish Flash" reminded me of Guy Lafleur — smooth, fast and lethal. Oh, and he had some of the best hockey hair ever.
Not only do his 684 goals rank 11th on the all-time list, but like "The Flower," he’s on the short list of most fun players to watch as well.
Can’t think of many who were this popular among fans and teammates alike.
In Their Own Words: Teemu Selanne
Teemu Selanne scored 684 goals in his career."When I was a kid, I remember playing hockey outside and whenever you did, you thought about playing for Finland vs. Sweden. Thats just the way it was." —Teemu Selanne
51. Bernie Geoffrion, Right Wing
Bernie "Boom Boom" Geoffrion kisses the puck with which he scored his 50th goal in 1961. He became only the second player to score 50 goals in a season.Experience: 1950-64, 1966-68 (16 seasons)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens
Career statistics: 36.5 G, 39.8 A, 76.3 PTS, *7.8 +/-
Point shares/82: 9.2
Stanley Cup championships: 6 (1953, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960)
Bottom Line: Bernie Geoffrion
Bernie Geoffrion in 1954.Few players left such an indelible mark than the first to reach the magic 50-goal mark. Bernie Geoffrion also was a pioneer of the slap shot, which convinced goalies to don face masks before long.
"Boom Boom" fun fact: He was so named after the cannon sound his trademark blasts made upon contact with the boards in his junior hockey days.
In Their Own Words: Bernie Geoffrion
Bernie Geoffrion, right, played 16 seasons in the NHL."There was a sportswriter named Charlie Boire who used to work for the Montreal Star. I was always practicing my slapshot. I was at the Forum after a practice, and Charlie came up to me and said, 'Do you mind if I call you 'Boom Boom'? I said, 'I don't care.'" —Bernie "Boom Boom" Geoffrion
50. Dit Clapper, Right Wing-Defenseman
Dit Clapper played 835 games in his NHL career.Experience: 1927-47 (20 seasons)
Teams: Boston Bruins
Career statistics: 22.5 G, 24.4 A, 46.8 PTS, N/A
Point shares/82: 9.3
Stanley Cup championships: 3 (1929, 1939, 1941)
Bottom Line: Dit Clapper
Dit Clapper scored 229 goals in his career.This trendsetter was one of the first true power forwards and played on the first line with a nickname ("The Dynamite Line").
He also was the first to survive 20 seasons and one of two players to be an All-Star at multiple positions.
Dit fun fact: He became part of "Slap Shot" lore when coach Reggie Dunlop famously said to his Charlestown Chiefs players, "Old-time hockey — Toe Blake, Dit Clapper, Eddie Shore. Those guys were the greats!"
In Their Own Words: Dit Clapper
Dit Clapper, left, won three Stanley Cups"[Dit Clapper] was very quiet and tall in those days as a player. He reminds me a lot of Jean Beliveau, a statesmen and always in good shape. He was as tough a player as there was in the league, nobody messed with him, he had a long fuse and played calm on the ice, never got rattled." —Scotty Bowman
49. Frank Mahovlich, Left Wing
Toronto Maple Leafs left wing Frank Mahovlich in 1965.Experience: 1956-74 (18 seasons)
Teams: Toronto Maple Leafs, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens
Career statistics: 37.0 G, 39.6 A, 76.6 PTS, *20.8 +/-
Point shares/82: 8.4
Stanley Cup championships: 6 (1962, 1963, 1964, 1967, 1971, 1973)
Bottom Line: Frank Mahovlich
Frank Mahovlich played 720 games with the Maple Leafs.He was known as "The Big M," a big man with a big shot. In Toronto, they also referred to Frank Mahovlich as "Moses" in expectation of a Stanley Cup, which he helped deliver four times.
While he never did part Lake Ontario, the man who scored 533 career goals was a sight to behold when he swooped in from the left side nonetheless.
In Their Own Words: Frank Mahovlich
Frank Mahovlich was known as "The Big M.""If someone gave the Russians a football, they'd win the Super Bowl in two years." —Frank Mahovlich
48. Chris Pronger, Defenseman
Edmonton Oilers defenseman Chris Pronger moves the puck against the New York Rangers in 2006.Experience: 1993-2012 (18 seasons)
Teams: Hartford Whalers, St. Louis Blues, Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, Philadelphia Flyers
Career statistics/82: 11.0 G, 38.0 A, 49.0 PTS, 12.9 +/-
Point shares/82: 9.8
Stanley Cup championships: 2007
Bottom Line: Chris Pronger
Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Chris Pronger launches a slap shot against the New York Islanders in 2010.He began his career as a 19-year-old hatchet man, finished it as a double-figures goal scorer.
In between, he became the second defenseman to win the Norris and Hart Awards in the same season.
The other: Bobby Orr.
In Their Own Words: Chris Pronger
Chris Pronger made his NHL debut in 1993."I've got to live my life. Bad things happen. I can't be sitting here worrying about it." —Chris Pronger
47. Pierre Pilote, Defenseman
Chicago Black Hawks defenseman Pierre Pilote in 1962.Experience: 1955-69 (14 seasons)
Teams: Chicago Blackhawks, Toronto Maple Leafs
Career statistics: 7.4 G, 38.5 A, 45.9 PTS, *23.2 +/-
Point shares/82: 8.6
Stanley Cup championships: 1 (1961)
Bottom Line: Pierre Pilote
Pierre Pilote played 821 games with the Chicago Black Hawks.The longtime captain is the answer to this bit of trivia: Who was last the multiple Norris Award winner before Bobby Orr claimed it for his own?
The frequent puck-rusher helped bridge the gap between Doug Harvey and No. 4 on the back line.
Pierre Pilote wasn’t allergic to contact, either.
In Their Own Words: Pierre Pilote
Pierre Pilote was a tough player."Well, that story gets bigger as the days go by. It was in my second or third year. I first went after the younger brother, Henri ... and I guess his brother Maurice wanted to defend him. Maybe he tripped… we’ll say he tripped." —Pierre Pilote on knocking out both of the Richard brothers in a one fight
46. Scott Niedermayer, Defenseman
New Jersey Devils defenseman Scott Niedermayer works against he Anaheim Mighty Ducks in 2002.Experience: 1991-2015 (22 seasons)
Teams: New Jersey Devils, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim/Anaheim Ducks
Career statistics: 11.2 G, 36.9 A, 48.0 PTS, 10.8 +/-
Point shares/82: 9.2
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1995, 2000, 2003, 2007)
Bottom Line: Scott Niedermayer
Anaheim Ducks defenseman Scott Niedermayer, left, during a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2006.While the Devils were plainer than vanilla in their heyday, here’s the rare exception. He was the strawberry sundae with sprinkles on top.
The one-time Norris and Smythe Trophy winner had the speed and instincts to join the rush or even lead it on occasion.
Niedermayer ... alive!
In Their Own Words: Scott Niedermayer
Scott Niedermayer in 2019 became the third Duck to have his number retired."(There's) nothing better than playing in a rink where the fans are loud and making a bunch of noise. It makes it a more exciting, more intense game, one you like to be part of." —Scott Niedermayer
45. Brett Hull, Right Wing
St. Louis Blues right wing Brett Hull in 1995.Experience: 1986-2006 (19 seasons)
Teams: Calgary Flames, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, Phoenix Coyotes
Career statistics/82: 47.9 G, 42.0 A, 89.9 PTS, 1.5 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.0
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1999, 2002)
Bottom Line: Brett Hull
St. Louis Blues right wing Brett Hull drives toward the net against the Florida Panthers in 1993.In the late '80s-early '90s, the "Golden Brett" was the Barry Bonds of pucks. Or was Bonds the Golden Brett of baseball?
Either way, the king of the one-timer scored 228 goals ... in a span of three seasons. That’s sick.
Um, why didn’t opponents intentionally walk him? His 741 career goals rank behind only Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe and Jaromir Jagr on the all-time list.
In Their Own Words: Brett Hull
Brett Hull played 19 seasons in the NHL."I was kind of smart enough when I was young, 14 or 15 years old, to realize that if you're ever going to do anything and step out of the shadow of your own dad — not only in hockey, but in life itself — you're going to have to learn you're Brett and not 'Bobby's son.'" —Brett Hull
44. Chris Chelios, Defenseman
Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Chris Chelios moves the puck against the New Jersey Devils in 1991.Experience: 1983-2010 (26 seasons)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings
Career statistics: 9.2 G, 37.9 A, 47.1 PTS, 17.4 +/-
Point shares/82: 8.4
Stanley Cup championships: 3 (1986, 2002, 2008)
Bottom Line: Chris Chelios
Chris Chelios played 1,651 games in the NHL."Chelly" played forever, and few defensemen accomplished more — seven All-Star Games, three Norris Trophies, three Stanley titles.
The emotional D-man produced seven seasons of 60 points or more and was equally effective at the other end.
In Their Own Words: Chris Chelios
Chris Chelios won three Stanley Cups."It takes brains. It's not like a forward, where you can get away with scoring and not play defense. On defense, you have to be thinking." —Chris Chelios
43. Joe Sakic, Center
Colorado Avalanche center Joe Sakic during a game against the Chicago Blackhawks in 1997.Experience: 1988-2009 (20 seasons)
Teams: Quebec Nordiques, Colorado Avalanche
Career statistics/82: 37.2 G, 60.5 A, 97.7 PTS, 1.8 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.0
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1996, 2001)
Bottom Line: Joe Sakic
Colorado Avalanche center Joe Sakic fires the puck against the Calgary Flames in 1995.This team captain set the tone by example — he excelled at equal strength as well as with the power-play and penalty-kill units.
He ranks ninth in points, 13th in assists and 16th in goals per game on the all-time list.
In Their Own Words: Joe Sakic
Joe Sakic scored 625 goals in his career."I always said to myself that the minute I thought I'd slipped, and not be the player I wanted to be, it was time for me to go." —Joe Sakic
42. Brad Park, Defenseman
Boston Bruins defenseman Brad Park battles for the puck against the New York Rangers in 1975.Experience: 1968-85 (17 seasons)
Teams: New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, Detroit Red Wing
Career statistics/82: 15.7 G, 50.3 A, 66.0 PTS, 26.7 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.6
Stanley Cup championships: None
Bottom Line: Brad Park
Brad Park started his career with the New York Rangers.His biggest mistake was that he played in the Bobby Orr era. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have been so taken for granted even in New York early in his career.
He was was the Norris Trophy runner-up no fewer than eight times, half of them to you-know-who.
In Their Own Words: Brad Park
Brad Park never won a Stanley Cup."It all started for real when I was 6, playing against my brother, Ron, who was two years older. He'd been playing organized hockey and loved it. My father was very enthused about us playing and built a makeshift rink on our front lawn. When Ron wasn't involved with one of his league games, he'd play with me on our own little rink in front of the house. He would skate around a big tree, right in the middle of the 'rink,' and then take a rush at me." —Brad Park
41. Charlie Conacher, Right Wing
New York Rangers right wing Charlie Conacher in 1939.Experience: 1943-50 (seven seasons)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens
Career statistics: 44.5 G, 2.36 A, N/A
Point shares/82: 11.8
Stanley Cup championships: 1 (1932)
Bottom Line: Charlie Conacher
Charlie Conacher played 328 games with the Maple Leafs.The most celebrated of the famous Conacher family was known as "The Big Bomber" for his 6-foot-1 size and howitzer of a shot. In a span of six seasons (1930-36), he led the league in goals five times.
Popular? The one-time Toronto heartthrob finished 11th in a local poll of the top 100 Maple Leafs players of all time, which was taken 75 years after his final game.
In Their Own Words: Charlie Conacher
Charlie Conacher averaged 45 goals a game in his career."Growing up, we couldn't afford a tube of toothpaste. We were as poor as church mice." —Charlie Conacher
40. Aurele Joliat, Left Wing
Aurele Joliat played 655 games in the NHL.Experience: 1922-38 (16 seasons)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens
Career statistics: 33.7 G, 24.3 A, 58.0 PTS, N/A
Point shares/82: 11.0
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1924, 1925, 1930. 1931)
Bottom Line: Aurele Joliat
Aurele Joliat scored 269 goals in his career.He was a four-time Stanley Cup champion and one-time league Most Valuable Player, one of the first great snipers in the league. Only Nels Stewart and Howie Morenz had more career goals at the time of his retirement.
Yet while Aurele Joliat's No. 4 was co-retired by the franchise, only that of Jean Beliveau can be seen in the Bell Centre raftors.
Tell me why, kids.
In Their Own Words: Aurele Joliat
Aurele Joliat was one of the NHL's early stars."Aurele Joliat scored four of the five goals, largely on his own individual prowess, and generally scintillated on the ice in a manner that drew round after round of applause and cheers from a highly-entertained gathering of hockey fans." —The Montreal Gazette
39. Bill Cook, Right Wing
Bill Cook played his entire NHL career with the New York Rangers.Experience: 1926-37 (11 seasons)
Teams: New York Rangers
Career statistics: 39.4 G, 23.8 A, 63.2 PTS, N/A
Point shares/82: 12.5
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1928, 1933)
Bottom Line: Bill Cook
Bill Cook in 1928.The original Blueshirt captain carried his team to four Stanley Cup Final series. He led the league in goals and points on two occasions.
That Gordie Howe, Guy Lafleur and Teemu Selanne are a few of the right wingers on his similarity scores list puts him in pretty good company.
In Their Own Words: Bill Cook
Bill Cook won two Stanley Cups."Bill was the finest all-round player in Ranger history. And he's my choice as the best right winger hockey ever knew — despite the fact that others disagree and give their votes to Rocket Richard or Gordie Howe. I say Cook topped them both." —Frank Boucher
38. Brian Leetch, Defenseman
New York Rangers defenseman Brian Leetch in 1993.Experience: 1987-2006 (18 seasons)
Teams: New York Rangers, Boston Bruins
Career statistics/82: 16.8 G, 53.1 A, 70.0 PTS, 1.7 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.0
Stanley Cup championships: 1 (1993)
Bottom Line: Brian Leetch
Brian Leetch helped the New York Rangers Rangers win the 1994 Stanley Cup, the team's first Cup in 54 years.He was a five-time All-Star and two-time Norris Trophy winner, but his greatest accomplishment was this: He was the backbone of the Stanley Cup championship team that put that worn-out 1940 thing to rest.
On behalf of everyone except the Vancouver Canucks, we say thank you very much.
In Their Own Words: Brian Leetch
Brian Leetch is a New York Rangers legend."I didn't want to leave (the New York Rangers). I played my first game as an 18-year-old here and I got traded on my 36th birthday." —Brian Leetch
37. Peter Forsberg, Center
Colorado Avalanche center Peter Forsberg, right, battles against the Chicago Blackhawks during a 1997 playoff game.Experience: 1994-2008, 2010-11 (13 seasons)
Teams: Quebec Nordiques, Colorado Avalanche, Philadelphia Flyers, Nashville Predators
Career statistics/82: 28.8 G, 73.7 A, 102.5 PTS, 27.6 +/-
Point shares/82: 11.3
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1996, 2001)
Bottom Line: Peter Forsberg
Peter Forsberg scored 249 goals in his career.If not for a ruptured spleen, this two-way terror would have put up even more monstrous numbers. He returned one year later to have his best season ever, but we would never see that player again.
Nonetheless, he ranks fourth in assists and eighth in points per game in league history.
"Peter Puck" fun fact: He was known as "Foppa" in his native Sweden, "Floppa" in most NHL cities.
In Their Own Words: Peter Forsberg
Peter Forsberg won two Stanley Cups in his career."I wouldn't accept losing as a team, wouldn't accept losing as my team. It's like a war every practice. I think it helped us a lot." —Peter Forsberg
36. Bill Durnan, Goaltender
Bill Durnan played his entire career with the Montreal Canadiens.Experience: 1943-50 (7 seasons)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens
Career statistics: 44.5 W, 2.36 GAA, N/A
Point shares/82: 19.4
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1944, 1946)
Bottom Line: Bill Durnan
Bill Durnan was the Canadiens' captain.He was the original Ken Dryden — a future Hall of Fame netminder who achieved more in a few short years than all but a few would in a career.
In seven seasons, he led the league in point shares six times, goals-against average six times, victories four times and shutouts twice.
He entered the league in the war years, but his brilliance extended well beyond that.
In Their Own Words: Bill Durnan
Bill Durnan allowed 2.36 goals per game."The Vezina got to be a matter of personal pride with me after I’d won it a couple of times. But the thing was always hanging over my head. Every time I blew a soft shot I suffered, and then I’d worry about blowing another soft shot and work twice as hard to avoid it." —Bill Durnan
35. Al MacInnis, Defenseman
Calgary Flames defenseman Al MacInnis in 1985.Experience: 1981-2004 (23 seasons)
Teams: Calgary Flames, St. Louis Blues
Career statistics/82: 19.7 G, 54.1 A, 73.8 PTS, 21.5 +/-
Point shares/82: 11.3
Stanley Cup championships: 1 (1989)
Bottom Line: Al MacInnis
St. Louis Blues defenseman Al Macinnis in 2002.Among defensemen, only Ray Bouque and Paul Coffey had more career goals, assists and points, but none could fire a puck quite like Al MacInnis.
His trademark slapper was once clocked at 100.4 miles per hour in the Hardest Shot competition, which he won a record seven times.
Oh, and this was accomplished with a wooden stick that he used throughout his career.
In Their Own Words: Al MacInnis
Al MacInnis played 23 seasons in the NHL."I wish I could skate one more shift, take one more slap shot from the blue line, for the best fans of hockey. But knowing my No. 2 will forever have a home here is more than I could ask." —Al MacInnis
34. Larry Robinson, Defenseman
Montreal Canadiens defenseman Larry Robinson, right, holds the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award with Serge Savard, left, and Guy Lapointe, center, after winning the 1978 Stanley Cup.Experience: 1972-92 (20 seasons)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Los Angeles Kings
Career statistics/82: 12.3 G, 44.4 A, 56.8 PTS, 42.8 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.0
Stanley Cup championships: 6 (1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1986)
Bottom Line: Larry Robinson
Larry Robinson mixes it up with Philadelphia Flyers tough guy Dave Schultz in 1974.There was a time in the 1970s when the safest answer to "Which team won the Stanley Cup?" was "Which team had Larry Robinson on its roster?"
Only two defensemen hoisted it more times — Jean-Guy Talbot and Serge Savard.
"Big Bird" combined size, physicality and leadership like few ever at the position.
33. King Clancy, Defenseman
King Clancy with the Toronto Maple Leafs.Experience: 1921-37 (16 seasons)
Teams: Ottawa Senators, Toronto Maple Leafs
Career statistics/82: 19.0 G, 20.8 A, 39.8 PTS, N/A
Point shares/82: 14.4
Stanley Cups: 3 (1923, 1927, 1932)
Bottom Line: King Clancy
King Clancy played 592 games in the NHL.This 5-foot-7, 170-pound bulldog was one of the first lethal goal scorers on the back line.
Had the Norris Trophy been around, he would have as many as three on his resume.
His similarity scores compare favorably to those of Al MacInnis and Larry Robinson in the modern era.
In Their Own Words: King Clancy
King Clancy averaged 19 goals a season in his career."The first memory I have of playing hockey was when I was a little gaffer growing up in Ottawa. I played for the fun of it, and I really enjoyed myself going out on those cold winter days, walking four or five miles to the river just to play shinny with the boys." —King Clancy
32. Paul Coffey, Defenseman
Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Paul Coffey in a game against the Minnesota North Stars in 1989.Experience: 21 seasons (1980-2001)
Teams: Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Los Angeles Kings, Detroit Red Wings, Hartford Whalers, Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, Carolina Panthers, Boston Bruins
Career statistics/82: 23.0 G, 66.1 A, 89.1 PTS, 17.3 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.8
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1984, 1985, 1987, 1991)
Bottom Line: Paul Coffey, Defenseman
Paul Coffey in 1993.While Wayne Gretzky and boys up front got most of the goals and hype, it was Paul Coffey who triggered the Oilers' attack at the back end.
The three-time Norris Trophy winner was the best skater/puck mover not named Bobby Orr at the position.
In Their Own Words: Paul Coffey
Paul Coffey played 21 seasons in the NHL."People ask me all the time now, what's the most memorable moment of your career? It's always the championships. The first goal, the 50th — it doesn't matter. It's always the championships." —Paul Coffey
31. Nels Stewart, Center
Nels Stewart played 15 seasons in the NHL.Experience: 15 seasons (1925-1940)
Teams: Montreal Maroons, Boston Bruins, New York Americans
Career statistics/82: 40.9 G, 24.1 A, 65.0 PTS, N/A
Point shares/82: 12.8
Stanley Cup championships: 1 (1926)
Bottom Line: Nels Stewart
Nels Stewart scored 324 goals in his career.This 6-foot-1, 195-pounder was the Phil Esposito of his time, one of the first power forwards and a premier lamp-lighter.
His rookie season was among the best of any era — 34 goals in 36 game and the first of his two Hart Trophies.
In Their Own Words: Nels Stewart
Nels Stewart won one Stanley Cup."I remember we had an old-timers game for charity, and I was playing with Nels. The puck came to Nels from behind the net, and he was out in front — where he usually was when he was playing in the National Hockey League. And what he did to that goalkeeper was just shameful, it made him look so silly. He just turned him inside out … it was a masterpiece, something I’d never seen before." —Ted "Teeder" Kennedy
30. Glenn Hall, Goaltender
Glenn Hall makes a save for the Chicago Black Hawks in 1962.Experience: 18 seasons (1952-53, 1954-71)
Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks, St. Louis Blues
Career statistics/82 games: 36.8 W, 2.50 GAA, .918* SV%
Point shares/82: 10.8
Stanley Cup championships: 1 (1961)
Bottom Line: Glenn Hall
Detroit Red Wings goalie Glenn Hall defends the goal during a game against the Montreal Canadiens in 1956.The Blackhawks were chronic underachievers for much of the 1960s, but don’t blame their man between the pipes.
If not for Glenn Hall and his Smythe Trophy-worthy performance in the 1961 Stanley Cup Final, they would have been 0-for-the-decade.
Eight years later, he won the award with an overmatched Blues team that got swept in the series. Besides, anyone named "Mr. Goalie" has to be on this list.
In Their Own Words: Glenn Hall
Glenn Hall averaged 37 wins a season."I often look at the guys who can whistle before a game and shake my head. You'd think they didn't have a care in the world. Me? I'm just plain miserable before every game." —Glenn Hall
29. Bernie Parent, Goaltender
Philadelphia Flyers goalie Bernie Parent slides into his net after making a save against the Atlanta Flames in 1976.Experience: 14 seasons (1965-79)
Teams: Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Philadelphia Flyers
Career statistics/82: 36.5 W, 2.55 GAA, .915 SV%
Point shares/82: 16.8
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1974, 1975)
Bottom Line: Bernie Parent
Philadelphia Flyers goalie Bernie Parent celebrates after beating the Boston Bruins to win the 1974 Stanley Cup. Parent was MVP of the series.The Flyers would have zero Stanley Cup banners without Bernie Parent.
He was one of three players (and the only goalie) to capture the Conn Smythe Award in consecutive seasons.
The others: Sidney Crosby and Mario Lemieux.
In Their Own Words: Bernie Parent
Only the Lord saves more than Bernie Parent."You don't have to be crazy to be a goalie, but it helps." —Bernie Parent
28. Stan Mikita, Center
Stan Mikita, left, against the Detroit Red Wings in 1965.Experience: 22 seasons (1958-80)
Teams: Chicago Blackhawks
Career statistics/82: 31.8 goals, 54.4 assists, 86.2 points, 19.4 plus-minus rating
Point shares/82: 8.4
Stanley Cup championship: 1 (1961)
Bottom Line: Stan Mikita
Chicago Blackhawks center Stan Mikita puts the puck past New York Rangers goalie Eddie Giacomin in 1965.The four-time league points leader made one of the most remarkable transitions ever —from hatchet man to Lady Byng Trophy winner in two short years.
Along with teammate Bobby Hull, the crafty pivot pioneered the curved stick blade much to the horror of goalies everywhere.
In Their Own Words: Stan Mikita
Stan Mikita played 22 seasons in the NHL."There are rough players and there are dirty players. I'm rough and dirty." —Stan Mikita
27. Mike Bossy, Right Wing
Mike Bossy, left, works to get his stick on the puck against the Boston Bruins in 1981.Experience: 10 seasons (1977-87)
Teams: New York Islanders
Career statistics/82: 62.5 G, 60.3 A, 122.8 PTS, 41.4 +/-
Point shares/82: 12.1
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1980, 1981, 1982, 1983)
Bottom Line: Mike Bossy
New York Islanders right wing Mike Bossy, right, eyes the puck, against the Minnesota North Stars in 1977.Confident? In his first contract talks, the kid assured Islanders general manager Bill Torrey that he would score 50 goals in his debut season.
Then the rookie went out and scored 53 of them. That’s all Boss could do — score goals and win Stanley Cups.
In fact, no player lit the lamp (0.76 per game) at a higher rate in league history. Only a back problem that shortened his career prevents a higher score here.
In Their Own Words: Mike Bossy
Mike Bossy averaged 63 goals a season in his career."I'm always extremely honored to be applauded the way I am when I get back (to New York) and have any kind of liaison with the fans. I'm humbled by it." —Mike Bossy
26. Denis Potvin, Defenseman
New York Islanders defenseman Denis Potvin skates out of trouble against the New Jersey Devils in 1984.Experience: 15 seasons (1973-88)
Teams: New York Islanders
Career statistics/82: 24.0 G, 57.4 A, 81.4 PTS, 35.3 +/-
Point shares/82: 12.4
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1980, 1981, 1982, 1983)
Bottom Line: Denis Potvin
New York Islanders defenseman Denis Potvin controls the puck against the Boston Bruins in 1981.There was some truth in those "Potvin Sucks" chants at old Madison Square Garden, you know.
The three-time Norris Trophy winner could be loud, whiny, pompous and worse. In his prime, though, few defensemen were better at both ends.
If not for health issues in the prime of his career, he would have been greater yet.
In Their Own Words: Denis Potvin
Denis Potvin won four Stanley Cups in his career."There's always been cheaters in every sport. The fans want to know. And it is illegal. I think it's a very important issue to deal with, and it has to be done." —Denis Potvin
25. Evgeni Malkin, Center
Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin skates against the Washington Capitals in 2019.Experience: 15 seasons (2006-present)
Teams: Pittsburgh Penguins
Career statistics/82: 37.6 G, 58.8 A, 96.4 PTS, 6.4 +/-
Point shares/82: 11.7
Stanley Cup championships: 3 (2009, 2015, 2016)
Bottom Line: Evgeni Malkin
Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin shoots the puck into the net against the Philadelphia Flyers in 2007."Geno" ranks 14th in points per game (1.18) in league history.
And he’s among only a dozen players to be the regular -eason and postseason Most Valuable Player in their careers.
Anyone who doesn’t have the three-time Stanley Cup champion among the top 100 players ever deserves a lifetime suspension.
In Their Own Words: Evgeni Malkin
Evgeni Malkin was born in Magnitogorsk, Russia."(Sidney Crosby) is the best player in the NHL. I’m always saying that, and I never change my thinking." —Evgeni Malkin
24. Ray Bourque, Defenseman
Boston Bruins defenseman Ray Bourque, right, pins New Jersey Devils John MacLean up against the boards in 1985.Experience: 22 seasons (1979-2001)
Teams: Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche
Career statistics/82: 20.9 G, 59.5 A, 80.3 PTS, 26.8 +/-
Point shares/82: 12.3
Stanley Cup championship: 1( 2001)
Bottom Line: Ray Bourque
Boston Bruins defenseman Ray Bourque fights for the puck against the Minnesota North Star in 1988.The guy had everything except a nickname.
His only Stanley Cup victory may be tainted — it came in his final season after the Bruins' lifer bailed on Boston — but that didn’t diminish his status as the best player at his position for nearly two full decades.
His five Norris Trophies rank behind only Bobby Orr, Doug Harvey, and Niklas Lidstrom in league history.
In Their Own Words: Ray Bourque
Ray Bourque is Boston fan favorite."If I can be half the hockey player that Bobby Orr was, I'll be happy." —Ray Bourque
23. Terry Sawchuk, Goaltender
Terry Sawchuk stopping the puck in 1956.Experience: 21 seasons (1949-70)
Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs, Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers
Career statistics/82: 37.6 W, 2.73 GAA, .904* SV%
Point shares/82: 15.1
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1952, 1954, 1955, 1967)
Bottom Line: Terry Sawchuk
Detroit Red Wings goaltender Terry Sawchuk bats the puck away during a game in 1958.The four-time Vezina Trophy winner still ranks second in shutouts (103) and seventh in victories (445) on the all-time list.
If the Smythe Award had been available, he would have at least two of those as well.
His 1952 postseason set the standard at the position — eight games, eight wins, five goals allowed, four shutouts.
In Their Own Words: Terry Sawchuk
Terry Sawchuk won four Stanley Cups."The day they put me in the net, I had a good game. I've stayed there ever since." —Terry Sawchuk
22. Patrick Roy, Goaltender
Colorado Avalanche goalie Patrick Roy makes a glove save against the Florida Panthers in Game 4 of the 1996 Stanley Cup Final.Experience: 19 seasons (1984-2003)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Colorado Avalanche
Career statistics/82: 43.9 W, 2.54 GAA, .910 SV%
Point shares/82: 15.8
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1986, 1993, 1996, 2001)
Bottom Line: Patrick Roy
Montreal Canadiens goalie Patrick Roy stops a shot against the Chicago Blackhawks in 1995.Three times Patty Wah was chosen the best player with the best team in the postseason.
And the three-time Smythe and Vezina Trophy winner won both awards with different teams.
Can you say "money player," girls and boys?
In Their Own Words: Patrick Roy
Patrick Roy coached the Avalanche after his playing days."I can't hear what Jeremy (Roenick) says because my ears are blocked with my two Stanley Cup rings." —Patrick Roy
21. Mark Messier, Center
New York Rangers center Mark Messier battles for the puck with New York Islanders center Alexei Yashin in 2002.Experience: 25 seasons (1979-2004)
Teams: Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers
Career statistics/82: 32.4 G, 55.7 A, 88.1 PTS, 9.9 +/-
Point shares/82: 7.5
Stanley Cup championships: 6 (1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, 1990, 1994)
Bottom Line: Mark Messier
Mark Messier, right, battles for the puck against the Hartford Whalers in 1981.Stats-wise, "The Moose" was as much about volume as quality — only Gordie Howe played more games. Yet Mark Messier's name appears on every short list of greatest leaders ever, and what number do you place on that?
While ex-teammate Wayne Gretzky failed to win another Stanley Cup after he left E-Town, Mess did the unthinkable in New York.
That major miracle alone gets him a spot here.
In Their Own Words: Mark Messier
Mark Messier won six Stanley Cups."The only pressure I'm under is the pressure I've put on myself." —Mark Messier
20. Red Kelly, Defenseman/Center
Red Kelly played 470 games with the Maple Leafs.Experience: 20 seasons (1947-67)
Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs
Career statistics/82: 17.5 G, 33.8 A, 51.3 PTS, 7.0* +/-
Point shares/82: 9.1
Stanley Cup championships: 8 (1950, 1952, 1954, 1955, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1967)
Bottom Line: Red Kelly
Red Kelly in a game against the Detroit Red Wings in the 1960s.The first Norris Trophy winner was part of more Stanley Cup teams (eight) than any player not with the Montreal Canadiens and is among the greatest (and most underrated) champions ever.
In his prime, the Red Wings' defenseman was a perennial first-team All-Star candidate.
Later in his career, the Maple Leaf made a seamless transition to center with four more Stanley Cup teams.
Red Kelly even won a seat in the Canadian Parliament, for goshsakes.
In Their Own Words: Red Kelly
Red Kelly is a hockey legend."Twelve and a half years in Detroit and then they trade you. I thought I was out of hockey. I retired. I thought my hockey days were over. When I started playing in the league, I thought, 'If you have a ten-year career, that's a long career.' I played twelve and a half years and thought, 'That's it. Now I gotta earn a living.' I started to work the next day with a tool company. But hockey was my whole life. I loved hockey ever since I was knee high to a grasshopper." —Red Kelly
19. Ken Dryden, Goaltender
Montreal Canadiens goalie Ken Dryden makes a save against the Boston Bruins during a Stanley Cup playoff game in 1978.Experience: 8 seasons (1970-79)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens
Career statistics/82: 53.3 W, 2.24 GAA, .922 SV%
Point shares/82: 20.4
Stanley Cup championships: 6 (1971, 1973, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979)
Bottom Line: Ken Dryden
Montreal Canadiens goalie Ken Dryden deflects a shot during a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1971.Maybe it was because he didn’t have the typical jock mentality. Maybe it was because he held out for an entire season to pursue a law degree. Or maybe it was because there was so much talent around him.
Whatever the reason "The Giraffe" tends to be shortchanged on these lists.
But it’s impossible to ignore that, in seven seasons, Ken Dryden won five Vezina Trophies and four Stanley Cups and posted a ginormous .922 save percentage, a full .029 better than the league average at the time.
In Their Own Words: Ken Dryden
Ken Dryden won six Stanley Cups."I feel nothing, I hear nothing, my eyes watch the puck, my body moves—like a goalie moves, like I move; I don’t tell it to move or how to move or where, I don’t know it’s moving, I don’t feel it move—yet it moves. And when my eyes watch the puck, I see things I don’t know I’m seeing. I see Larson and Nedomansky as they come on the ice, I see them away from the puck unthreatening and uninvolved. I see something in the way a shooter holds his stick, in the way his body angles and turns, in the way he’s being checked, in what he’s done before that tells me what he’ll do—and my body moves. I let it move. I trust it and the unconscious mind that moves it." —Ken Dryden
18. Howie Morenz, Center
Howie Morenz played 14 seasons in the NHL.Experience: 14 seasons (1923-37)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers
Career statistics/82: 40.4 G, 30.6 A, 71.0 PTS, NA +/-
Point shares/82: 15.0
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1924, 1925, 1930, 1931)
Bottom Line: Howie Morenz
Howie Morenz played 12 seasons with the Canadiens.The three-time league MVP was the first true superstar of pro hockey. His end-to-end rushes were the stuff of legends.
When the pint-sized center suddenly passed away shortly after a shattered leg threatened to end his career, he was the top scorer in league history.
The Canadian Press selected him as the best hockey player in the first half of the 20th century.
In Their Own Words: Howie Morenz
Howie Morenz won four Stanley Cups."There was something missing inside when I was away the last two seasons. I got it back when I came back with the Canadiens. I'm giving the fans everything I've got. The end may be in sight but the heart is still sound." —Howie Morenz
17. Alex Ovechkin, Right Wing
Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin (8) plays in the NHL Winter Classic hockey game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Washington Capitals in Pittsburgh, Saturday, Jan. 1, 2011.Experience: 16 seasons (2005-present)
Teams: Washington Capitals
Career statistics/82: 49.8 G, 41.8 A, 91.6 PTS, 7.1 +/-
Point shares/82: 12.4
Stanley Cup championship: 1 (2018)
Bottom Line: Alex Ovechkin
Washington Capitals right wing Alex Ovechkin skates in front of Pittsburgh Penguins net during a game in 2019.Ovie is the most dominant goal scorer of his time, and a recent Stanley Cup victory fills the only obvious void on his resume.
At 33, there’s still time for him to climb the ladder.
In Their Own Words: Alex Ovechkin
Alex Ovechkin is one best scorers of all time."Everybody has to have his own style, his own game. Everybody has to be himself. I'm listening to nobody. I have my own mind, my own heart." —Alex Ovechkin
16. Guy Lafleur, Right Wing
Montreal Canadiens right wing Guy Lafleur against the New Jersey Devils in 1983.Experience: 17 seasons (1971-85, 1988-91)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, Quebec Nordiques
Career statistics/82: 40.8 G, 57.7 A, 98.5 PTS, 32.5 +/-
Point shares/82: 9.5
Stanley Cup championships: 5 (1993, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999)
Bottom Line: Guy Lafleur
Montreal Canadiens right wing Guy Lafleur, right, fights for the puck against the Chicago Black Hawks in 1976.The three-time Ross Trophy winner was 21st in goals, 23rd in assists and 11th in points per game in league history.
For sheer entertainment value, "The Flower" in full bloom had no equal in his day.
The guy was smoother than a double chocolate-peanut butter milkshake.
In Their Own Words: Guy Lafleur
Guy Lafleur averaged 41 goals a game in his career."Being drafted by the Montreal Canadiens, that was the greatest moment in my career. And stealing the Stanley Cup in 1978 and bringing it back to my hometown." —Guy Lafleur
15. Dominik Hasek, Goaltender
Detroit Red Wings goalie Dominik Hasek against the Nashville Predators in 2008.Experience: 16 seasons (1990-2008)
Teams: Chicago Blackhawks, Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, Ottawa Senators
Career statistics/82: 43.4 W, 2.20 GAA, .922 SV%
Point shares/82: 17.5
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (2002, 2008)
Bottom Line: Dominik Hasek
Buffalo Sabres goalie Dominik Hasek makes a stick save during a game in 1998.For athletic talent, the Gumby-like goalie was the best ever at his position.
In regular-season and postseason history, he’s the only one to rank among the top 11 in goals-against average (seventh and first, respectively) and save percentage (11th, 10th).
Need we say more?
In Their Own Words: Dominik Hasek
Dominik Hasek played 16 seasons in the NHL."I am not afraid to stop the puck with my head. I try to do it sometimes even in practice; not everyday but once in a while, I say to my teammates, shoot me in my head and I'll try to stop the puck. I am not afraid at all of the puck, so sometimes, if the shot comes at my head, it's an easier save to make with your head. Maybe the people think a different way, but for me, I do it with my head." —Dominik Hasek
14. Doug Harvey, Defenseman
New York Rangers defenseman Doug Harvey, center, against the Montreal Canadiens.Experience: 19 seasons (1947-64, 1966-68)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, Detroit Red Wings, St. Louis Blues
Career statistics/82: 6.5 G, 33.3 A, 39.8 PTS, 10.9* +/-
Point shares/82: 9.1
Stanley Cup championships: 6 (1953, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960)
Bottom Line: Doug Harvey
Doug Harvey won six Stanley Cups with the Canadiens.The backbone of the Canadiens' dynasty won the Norris Award no fewer than seven times in its first nine years of existence.
He also quarterbacked a power-play unit that was so drop-dead efficient, the rule makers decided to limit teams to one goal per minor penalty.
As a two-way defenseman and team leader, there was none better in his time.
In Their Own Words: Doug Harvey
Doug Harvey played in 1,113 games in his career."My mom beat us until she started breaking clothes hangers. Wooden clothes hangers! Once we started laughing back at her, then your spankings were through. That's the way I was raised. So, I got to be about 13 years of age when finally she quit spanking on me. But I think that it was a great way to be raised." —Doug Harvey
13. Jacques Plante, Goaltender
Montreal Canadiens goaltender Jacques Plante in 1958.Experience: 19 seasons (1952-65, 1968-73, 1974-75)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, St. Louis Blues, Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins
Career statistics/82: 42.8 W, 2.38 GAA, .920* SV%
Point shares/82: 17.0
Stanley Cup championships: 6 (1953, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960)
Bottom Line: Jaccques Plante
Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Jacques Plante saves a shot against the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1970."Jake the Snake" wasn’t the most talented goaltender of all time, not that he was far from it.
He was the one who had the biggest impact on the position, the first to permanently wear a facemask, handle the puck, roam behind the net and direct teammates on the ice among other innovations.
Then. there were those seven Vezina Trophies and half-dozen Stanley Cups.
In Their Own Words: Jaccques Plante
Jacques Plante had 437 wins in his career."How would you like a job where when you made a mistake, a big red light goes on and 18,000 people boo?" —Jacques Plante
12. Jaromir Jagr, Right Wing
Jaromir Jagr playing for the Florida Panthers against the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2016.Experience: 24 seasons (1990-2008, 2011-18)
Teams: Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals, New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers, Dallas Stars, Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils, Florida Panthers, Calgary Flames
Career statistics/82: 36.2 G, 54.7 A, 90.9 PTS, 15.2 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.3
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1991, 1992)
Bottom Line: Jaromir Jagr
Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Jaromir Jagr gets a shot off against the Philadelphia Flyers in 1995.For all the points (1,921, second-most ever) and game-winners (135, most ever), Ross (five), Lindsay (three) and Hart (one) Trophies, Jaromir Jagr's most impressive feat may be the 134 goals he scored — in his 40s.
If the physical freak hadn’t carried a cash-strapped franchise to the 1999 Eastern Conference semifinals, we might be talkin’ about the Saskatoon Penguins right now.
Oh, and "The Mullet" owns the unofficial record for the most good-hair days in pucks history, too.
In Their Own Words: Jaromir Jagr
Jaromir Jagr scored 766 goals in his career."You appreciate things after you lose them." —Jaromir Jagr
11. Bobby Hull, Left Wing
Bobby Hull scores a goal for the Chicago Black Hawks against the Detroit Red Wings in a 1963 playoff game.Experience: 15 seasons (1957-72, 1979-80)
Teams: Chicago Blackhawks, Winnipeg Jets, Hartford Whalers
Career statistics/82: 47.1 G, 43.2 A, 90.3 PTS, 22.1* +/-
Point shares/82: 10.5
Stanley Cup championship: 1 (1961)
Bottom Line: Bobby Hull
Chicago Black Hawks left wing Bobby Hull takes a shot against the Boston Bruins in 1964.Too bad el cheapo Blackhawks owner Arthur Wirtz allowed the "Golden Jet" to bolt to the WHA, a Triple-A league that he kept in business for seven seasons. Otherwise, Bobby Hull would be several spots higher on this list.
No player possessed a more electric mix of speed and power on ice. He was the first player to surpass 50 goals in a season, and if netminders hadn’t begun to wear facemasks early in his career, he also might have been the first to obliterate one with his legendary slap shot.
In Their Own Words: Bobby Hull
Bobby Hull averaged 47 goals a season in his career."Every professional athlete owes a debt of gratitude to the fans and management, and pays an installment every time he plays. He should never miss a payment." —Bobby Hull
10. Nicklas Lidstrom, Defenseman
Detroit Red Wings defenseman Niklas Lidstrom shoots against the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2007.Experience: 20 seasons (1991-2012)
Teams: Detroit Red Wings
Career statistics/82: 10.4 G, 45.5 A, 59.9 PTS, 26.7 +/-
Point shares/82: 11.1
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1997, 1998, 2002, 2008)
Bottom Line: Nicklas Lidstrom
Detroit Red Wings defenseman Niklas Lidstrom, right, during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2012.The best two-way defenseman of the post-Bobby Orr era was as fundamentally correct as any at his position.
The seven-time Norris Trophy-winner was efficient, versatile, durable, coachable and ultimately a winner.
Really, have you ever heard anyone say a bad word about the guy?
In Their Own Words: Nicklas Lidstrom
Nicklas Lidstrom played 20 seasons in the NHL."People will learn a lot more about our rivalry, and not only in hockey, but in other sports. Sweden and Finland will be huge." —Nicklas Lidstrom
9. Eddie Shore, Defenseman
Boston Bruins defenseman Eddie Shore in 1934.Experience: 14 seasons (1926-40)
Teams: Boston Bruins, New York Americans
Career statistics/82: 15.6 G, 26.6 A, 42.3 PTS, NA +/-
Point shares/82: 14.6
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1929, 1939)
Bottom Line: Eddie Shore
Eddie Shore in 1929.It’s kinda strange that the James Norris Trophy was named after the longtime Detroit Red Wings owner, not an elite all-around defenseman to whom it is given each year.
You know, someone like Eddie Shore, the four-time league MVP and first legit star at the position.
He could have won the award as many as nine times, which would stand as the most ever.
So let’s rename it the Shore Trophy, shall we?
In Their Own Words: Eddie Shore
Eddie Shore won two Stanley Cups in his career."Most people of the day would skate down the side. But Eddie always went down the middle of the ice. People bounced off him like tenpins" —Milt Schmidt
8. Phil Esposito, Center
Phil Esposito playing for the New York Rangers against the California Golden Seals in 1975.Experience: 18 seasons (1963-81)
Teams: Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins, New York Rangers
Career statistics/82: 45.9 G, 55.8 A, 101.7 PTS, 16.1 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.5
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1970, 1972)
Bottom Line: Phil Esposito
Boston Bruins center Phil Esposito in 1975.Truth is, "Espie" doesn’t crack the top 10 on many of these lists. To which we say, why the h-e-double-hockey-sticks not?
The guy was a slot machine, a five-time scoring champion, two-time MVP and two-time Stanley Cup-winner, no? Averaged 60 goals and 71 assists in one seven-year stretch?
Also overlooked is his immense role with Team Canada in the epic 1972 Summit Series that changed the sport forever.
In Their Own Words: Phil Esposito
Phil Esposito played 18 seasons in the NHL."I never shot a deer. I've never shot anything in my life. I never hunted. I'm just not that type of guy. But there's no doubt in my mind that I would have killed to win. That really scares me sometimes. Right now I think about it, and I get little goose bumps. I would have done anything — absolutely anything — to win. In a war, maybe that's what happens. It was our society against (Russian) society." —Phil Esposito
7. Jean Beliveau, Center
Montreal Canadiens team captain Jean Beliveau holds the Stanley Cup trophy after his team's win over the Chicago Black Hawks in 1971.Experience: 20 seasons (1950-51, 1952-71)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens
Career statistics/82: 37.0 G, 51.9 A, 88.9 PTS, 12.8* +/-
Point shares/82: 10.1
Stanley Cup championships: 10 (1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1965, 1966, 1968, 1969, 1971)
Bottom Line: Jean Beliveau
Montreal Canadiens center Jean Beliveau takes a shot against the Detroit Red Wings in 1954.Most players dream to have one Stanley Cup ring. Well, "Le Gros Bill "had one for each of his eight fingers and two thumbs.
Simply put, the two-time league MVP was the greatest winner with the most storied franchise in hockey history, an indispensable part of not one but two dynasties.
In Their Own Words: Jean Beliveau
Jean Beliveau, left, Guy Lafleur, center, and Maurice Richard."Talent is a gift from God, but you can only succeed with hard work." —Jean Beliveau
6. Maurice Richard, Right Wing
Montreal Canadiens right wing Maurice "Rocket" Richard gets ready to fire a goal against the Chicago Black Hawks in 1954.Experience: 18 seasons (1942-60)
Teams: Montreal Canadiens
Career statistics/82: 45.6 G, 35.4 A, 81.0 PTS, 28.9* +/-
Point shares/82: 10.5
Stanley Cup championships: 8 (1944, 1946, 1953, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960)
Bottom Line: Maurice Richard
Montreal Canadiens forward Maurice Richard scores a goal in a 1951 Stanley Cup game against the Detroit Red Wings.The "Rocket" didn’t lug around just opponents on his back. The Montreal native also carried the Quebec province, not to mention eight Stanley Cups.
When the first player to score 50 goals in 50 games was suspended for the entire 1955 postseason, fans threatened to burn Montreal to the ground. And when he died, an entire nation mourned for days.
Name another player who had this kind of stranglehold on a franchise, a city and a league. You can’t. Because there wasn’t one.
In Their Own Words: Maurice Richard
Maurice Richard won eight Stanley Cups."Because I always try so hard to win and had my troubles in Boston, I was suspended. At playoff time, it hurts not to be in the game with the boys. However, I want to do what is good for the people of Montreal and the team. So that no further harm will be done, I would like to ask everyone to get behind the team and to help the boys win from the Rangers and Detroit. I will take my punishment and come back next year to help the club and younger players to win the cup." —Maurice Richard
5. Sidney Crosby, Center
Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby celebrates against the Anaheim Ducks in 2014.Experience: 14 seasons (2005-present)
Teams: Pittsburgh Penguins
Career statistics/82: 38.8 G, 67.0 A, 105.7 PTS, 15.9 +/-
Point shares/82: 13.0
Stanley Cup championships: 3 (2009, 2016, 2017)
Bottom Line: Sidney Crosby
Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby protects the puck against the New York Islanders during a game in 2019.Hard to believe that Sid’s not "The Kid" anymore, isn’t it?
Now he’s merely the best 200-foot player in pucks history, a once-in-a-generation mix of skill, smarts, selflessness, will and physicality.
What’s more, the GOTM (Greatest Of The Millennium) has dominated at all levels when the worldwide talent pool has never been deeper.
In Their Own Words: Sidney Crosby
Sidney Crosby made his NHL debut in 2005 at the age of 18."The biggest thing for me is the passion that I've always had for hockey. I remember growing up, no matter what I did in life, my parents always told me to try to do my best at it and be my best. I can say going through different things that passion is the most important part. It's not skills or talent or any of that stuff." —Sidney Crosby
4. Gordie Howe, Right Wing
Gordie Howe scored 786 goals in his career.Experience: 26 seasons (1946-71, 1979-80)
Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Hartford Whalers
Career statistics/82: 37.2 G, 48.7 A, 85.9 PTS, 14.2 +/-
Point shares/82: 10.1
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1950, 1952, 1954, 1955)
Bottom Line: Gordie Howe
Detroit Red Wings right wing Gordie Howe tries a shot on goal against the California Seals in 1967.We all know about his absurd longevity — he scored 15 goals in his farewell season. At 51 years of age.
We tend to forget that he was the first dominant power forward, a force of nature who could score in traffic as well as he could plant an elbow into a face.
As massive as his career numbers may be, they don’t do him justice entirely. In his prime, Gordie Howe was the league points leader five times in a span of seven seasons.
There was only one "Mr. Hockey," and there will never be another like him.
In Their Own Words: Gordie Howe
Gordie Howe was "Mr. Hockey.""You find that you have peace of mind and can enjoy yourself, get more sleep, and rest when you know that it was a one hundred percent effort that you gave ... win or lose." —Gordie Howe
3. Mario Lemieux, Center
Mario Lemieux finished his career with 690 goals and 1,033 assists.Experience: 17 seasons (1984-97, 2000--6)
Team: Pittsburgh Penguins
Career statistics/82: 37.2 G, 48.7 A, 85.9 PTS, 14.2 +/-
Point shares/82: 15.0
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1991, 1992)
Bottom Line: Mario Lemieux
Pittsburgh Penguins center Mario Lemieux, in 1984, after scoring his first NHL goal during a game against the Boston Bruins at the Boston Garden.The hockey gods broke the mold when they combined his 6-foot-4 size and off-the-charts talent level. What they didn’t give "Super Mario" was longevity.
Who knows what his numbers would look like if everything from a bum back to Hodgkin’s disease hadn’t forced him to sit out nearly 500 games?
But let’s not dwell on what might have been. Let’s celebrate all those ridiculous highlights and miraculous comebacks that he gave us all those years.
In Their Own Words: Mario Lemieux
Mario Lemieux won two Stanley Cups."One thing I hate is people screaming at me. If you want me to do something, talk to me. When someone screams at me to hurry up, I slow down." —Mario Lemieux
2. Wayne Gretzky, Center
Wayne Gretzky played in 1,487 NHL games.Experience: 20 seasons (1979-99)
Teams: Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, New York Rangers
Career statistics/82: 49.3 G, 108.2 A, 157.5 PTS, 28.7 +/-
Point shares/82: 13.8
Stanley Cup championships: 4 (1984, 1985, 1987, 1988)
Bottom Line: Wayne Gretzky
Edmonton Oilers center Wayne Gretzky moves toward the net to score during a playoff game against the Chicago Black Hawks."The Great One" was Barry Bonds without the steroids, a hockey prodigy who made a joke of the record book in the live puck era.
We could bore you with the details, but there’s not enough space here.
So here’s our favorite: If the nine-time league MVP hadn’t scored one stinkin’ goal, he still would be the all-time points leader on his 1,963 assists alone.
Gretzky played chess. Everyone else played Chutes and Ladders.
In Their Own Words: Wayne Gretzky
Wayne Gretzky scored 894 goals in his career."I skate to where the puck is going to be, not where it has been." —Wayne Gretzky
1. Bobby Orr, Defenseman
Boston Bruins defenseman Bobby Orr is the GOAT.Experience: 12 seasons (1966-79)
Teams: Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks
Career statistics/82: 33.7 G, 80.5 A, 114.2 PTs, 72.6 +/-
Point shares/82: 18.8
Stanley Cup championships: 2 (1970, 1972)
Bottom Line: Bobby Orr
Boston Bruins defenseman Bobby Orr scores a goal against the Chicago Black Hawks in a 1970 Stanley Cup game.Four reasons why No. 4 is No. 1 — and it’s not close, really.
- The eight-time Norris and three-time Hart Trophy-winner didn’t just revolutionize the game. As the first defenseman to trigger the offense — sacre bleu! — he took it by the collar and dragged it out of the Dark Ages. The game became quicker, faster and more creative because of him, not to mention a whole lot more fun to watch.
- No player was more dominant at his position. His career 1.39 points per game are a full 28 percent more than Paul Coffey, who's next in line. What about Wayne Gretzky, you ask? His 1.92 points per game are a scant 5 percent better than Mario Lemieux, who ranks second.
- No player was more valuable to his team, as evidenced by his crazy plus-0.89 rating per game. Runner-up Larry Robinson checked in at plus-0.52. Any misguided soul who thinks of the guy as a one-trick pony obviously didn’t see him play 30-plus minutes per game, hand out a check, block a shot or drop his gloves.
- His 1970 Stanley Cup Final game winner remains one of the epic moments in pro sports, not to mention the coolest hockey photo of all time. All he needed was the Superman cape.
Any questions, girls and boys?
In Their Own Words: Bobby Orr
Bobby Orr, center, won two Stanley Cups."Growing up, if I hadn't had sports, I don't know where I'd be. God only knows what street corners I'd have been standing on, and God only knows what I'd have been doing, but instead, I played hockey and went to school and stayed out of trouble." —Bobby Orr