Despite various reports, the New York Knicks did not make a formal contract offer to three-time All-Star Ben Simmons. SNY’s Ian Begley, referencing league sources, reported that while the Knicks communicated with Simmons’ representatives, they ultimately chose not to extend a deal.

This clarification from Begley followed comments from veteran NBA reporter Marc Stein, who stated in his newsletter that Simmons had “passed on” a one-year veteran minimum offer from New York. However, Begley pointed out that although there was genuine interest from the Knicks in the former Rookie of the Year, no official offer ever materialized.

On September 8, 2025, Begley shared an update, posting, “Knicks have had dialogue with free agent Ben Simmons over the course of the offseason and certainly have had interest in him, but club has never made a formal offer to Simmons, per league sources. Landry Shamet, Malcolm Brogdon among those on NYK radar for its lone roster spot.”

Knicks have had dialogue with free agent Ben Simmons over the course of the offseason and certainly have had interest in him, but club has never made a formal offer to Simmons, per league sources. Landry Shamet, Malcolm Brogdon among those on NYK radar for its lone roster spot

— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) September 8, 2025

Knicks’ Interest and Other Targets

Simmons was viewed as a potential bench addition for his size and playmaking, but the Knicks instead strengthened their second unit this offseason by bringing in veteran forward Guerschon Yabusele and former Sixth Man of the Year Jordan Clarkson.

Marc Stein noted that both New York and the Boston Celtics expressed the “most serious interest” in Simmons this summer. The Celtics later filled their roster need by signing Chris Boucher, formerly of Toronto.

Stein also revealed that Simmons recently parted ways with his agent, Bernie Lee—who also represents Jimmy Butler of the Golden State Warriors—casting further doubt on Simmons’ future in the league.

With one roster spot remaining before the season begins, the Knicks are still linked to other options, including Landry Shamet, who played for the team last season, and Malcolm Brogdon.

Cap Room and Financial Flexibility

New York’s payroll sits $3.7 million below the league’s second-apron threshold after signing Yabusele with the taxpayer midlevel exception. This gives the Knicks room to add one more player on a veteran minimum contract as well as a rookie deal for a second-round draft pick.

Although Bleacher Report salary cap expert Eric Pincus has suggested Simmons could still end up with the Knicks, Begley’s reporting makes clear that no formal agreement has been made.

Betting Market Outlook for Knicks

While speculation about Simmons’ future continued, sportsbooks adjusted their odds on New York’s upcoming season. As of September 2025, the Knicks are consistently listed among the league’s top contenders.

DraftKings currently prices New York at +900 to win the 2025–26 NBA title, FanDuel lists them at +950, and Caesars/ESPN BET shows them shorter at +800. In the Eastern Conference market, Action Network puts the Knicks at +290, just behind Cleveland at +260, while OddsShark identifies a “best bet” at +310 for New York to win the East.

Season win totals showed strong expectations. Action Network previously noted a line of 52.5 wins with a projection of 53.3, while BetMGM lists the total at 53.5 (-110 on both sides).

Individual awards markets have included Knicks guard Jalen Brunson. His MVP odds vary widely, from +3500 at some books to as long as +8000 elsewhere, underscoring both his growing role and market uncertainty.

The Knicks’ futures prices have seen modest movement since the summer. ESPN reported on June 22 that New York opened at +750, ranking behind Oklahoma City and Cleveland. VegasInsider tracked the Knicks tightening from +950 to +900 to +800 in early July before settling back into the current +900 to +950 range across most books.

Simmons’ Decline Since His Peak

The 28-year-old Simmons entered the NBA as the No. 1 overall pick in 2016 and appeared to be on a fast track to superstardom. He made three consecutive All-Star teams, won Rookie of the Year in 2018, and was twice selected to the NBA All-Defensive First Team while with the Philadelphia 76ers.

But his career has been derailed by injuries and mental health struggles since his high-profile exit from Philadelphia. With the Brooklyn Nets, Simmons battled back issues that kept him sidelined for long stretches. He averaged 6.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists across 33 games last season before reaching a buyout agreement.

The Los Angeles Clippers then signed Simmons to a pro-rated one-year, $1.08 million contract to finish out the 2024–25 season. He played just 17 games, averaging career lows of 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists while struggling to establish a role. His playoff role with the Clippers was minimal, logging just eight minutes per game during their brief postseason run.

Clippers Move On, Simmons Weighs His Career

This offseason, the Clippers reshaped their roster by adding Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and center Brook Lopez, closing the door on Simmons’ return to Los Angeles. Stein reported that Simmons had entered the summer hoping to secure a deal above the veteran minimum, but as training camp approaches, his options appear limited.

Stefan Bondy of the New York Post reported that Simmons is weighing whether to continue his professional career at all. Bondy wrote, “The former All-Star and Rookie of the Year, who has struggled recently with injuries and handling the public pressures of the league, is an option for the Knicks because of his upside as an elite defender and athlete to fill their backup point guard spot. However, Simmons … is sending a message that he isn’t sure if he wants to continue.”

At 29, Simmons now finds himself unsigned and weighing retirement. His former agent Bernie Lee officially stepped away from representing him this summer, notifying the NBPA of the change.

Hockey’s storied past is defined by legendary players and unforgettable moments that showcased unmatched talent, drive, and passion on the ice.

From record-breaking milestones to iconic plays, these stars didn’t just dominate—they redefined greatness in professional hockey.

Their influence extends well beyond NHL stats, inspiring generations of fans and future athletes worldwide. Now, explore the 20 greatest NHL players of all time.

Best Hockey Players of All Time – Top 20 List

Now, let’s explore our top 20 list of the greatest hockey players ever. From scoring sensations to defensive geniuses, these legends have made their mark on the sport, continue to inspire fans around the world, and are responsible for some of the biggest milestones in hockey history.

1. Wayne Gretzky: The Great One

Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One,” is often considered the best hockey player of all time.

He holds numerous records, including the most goals (894) and points (2,857) in NHL history. Gretzky’s vision, skill, and ability to read the game set him apart.

He revolutionized the sport with his playmaking abilities and offensive prowess, leading the Edmonton Oilers to four Stanley Cup championships in the 1980s.

Additionally, Gretzky recorded 50 goals in 39 games during the 1981-82 season, which remains unmatched.

2. Gordie Howe: Mr. Hockey’s Legacy

Gordie Howe, known as “Mr. Hockey,” is another legend who dominated the sport. He played 26 seasons in the NHL, primarily with the Detroit Red Wings, and is known for his toughness, scoring ability, and longevity.

Howe scored 801 goals and amassed 1,850 points during his career. His physical style of play and remarkable consistency made him a fan favorite and a key figure in hockey history.

Howe also played professional hockey into his 50s, a testament to his incredible endurance and passion for the game.

3. Bobby Orr: The Best Defenseman

Bobby Orr is widely regarded as the best defenseman in hockey history. Orr revolutionized the position by combining offensive skills with defensive prowess.

He won the Norris Trophy as the league’s best defenseman eight times and led the Boston Bruins to two Stanley Cup victories.

Orr’s ability to skate, score, and defend made him a unique and dominant player on the ice. Orr was the first defenseman to lead the league in scoring, which he achieved twice.

4. Mario Lemieux: Super Mario’s Triumphs

Mario Lemieux, also known as “Super Mario,” was one of the most talented players to ever play the game.

Despite battling serious health issues, including cancer, Lemieux scored 690 goals and recorded 1,723 points in just 915 games.

He led the Pittsburgh Penguins to two Stanley Cup championships and was known for his incredible skill, size, and ability to control the game. Lemieux’s career points-per-game average of 1.88 is second only to Wayne Gretzky’s.

5. Maurice “Rocket” Richard: The Montreal Legend

Maurice “Rocket” Richard was the first player to score 50 goals in 50 games and finished his career with 544 goals.

Richard played his entire career with the Montreal Canadiens, leading them to eight Stanley Cup championships.

His fierce competitiveness and scoring ability made him a legend in Montreal and a key figure in the NHL’s early history.

Richard’s impact on the game is further honored through the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy, awarded annually to the NHL’s top goal scorer.

Want to know why fighting is allowed in hockey? Check out our article about the biggest hockey fights.

6. Jean Beliveau: The True Leader

Jean Béliveau, the legendary center for the Montreal Canadiens, remains a towering figure in NHL history—both for his extraordinary talent and unwavering leadership. Over his illustrious career, Béliveau tallied 507 goals and 1,219 points, guiding the Canadiens to an incredible 10 Stanley Cup victories.

Renowned for his graceful playing style and clutch performances, Béliveau embodied class and composure under pressure. His unmatched sportsmanship and poise elevated those around him, earning respect from teammates and rivals alike.

Serving as team captain for a record 10 seasons, Béliveau became the heart and soul of the Canadiens, cementing his legacy as one of hockey’s greatest and most respected leaders.

7. Mark Messier: The Moose’s Dominance

Mark Messier, known as “The Moose,” was a dominant force in the NHL for over 25 years. In his career, Messier scored 694 goals and 1,887 points.

He won six Stanley Cup championships, five with the Edmonton Oilers and one with the New York Rangers. Messier’s leadership and ability to elevate his game in the playoffs earned him a place among the all-time greats.

He is the only player to captain two different teams to win the Stanley Cup.

8. Jaromir Jagr: The Eternal Star

Jaromir Jagr’s longevity and skill have made him one of the best players in NHL history. Jagr scored 766 goals and recorded 1,921 points, playing for multiple teams over his career.

Known for his incredible work ethic and physical style, Jagr has been successful across different game eras, showcasing his adaptability and talent.

Jagr is second only to Wayne Gretzky in all-time points and has won two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

9. Steve Yzerman: The Red Wings Icon

Steve Yzerman spent his entire career with the Detroit Red Wings, scoring 692 goals and recording 1,755 points.

Yzerman led the Red Wings to three Stanley Cup championships and is known for his leadership, determination, and two-way play.

Under coach Scotty Bowman, he transformed into a complete player and became one of the most respected figures in hockey.

Yzerman’s number 19 jersey was retired by the Red Wings in honor of his contributions to the team.

10. Martin Brodeur: The Goalie Pioneer

Martin Brodeur is considered one of the best goaltenders in NHL history. He holds the record for most wins (691) and shutouts (125) by a goaltender.

Brodeur spent the majority of his career with the New Jersey Devils, leading them to three Stanley Cup championships.

Known for his puck-handling skills and consistency, Brodeur revolutionized the goaltending position. He also won the Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s best goaltender four times.

11. Patrick Roy: The Playoff Hero

Patrick Roy is another legendary goaltender known for his clutch performances in the playoffs.

Roy won four Stanley Cup championships and is the only player to win the Conn Smythe Trophy three times as the playoff MVP.

He played for the Montreal Canadiens and Colorado Avalanche, setting records for most playoff wins by a goalie.

Roy’s aggressive style and ability to make key saves in critical moments solidified his legacy.

12. Alexander Ovechkin: The Goal-Scoring Machine

Alexander Ovechkin is one of the greatest goal-scorers in NHL history. He has scored 812 goals and continues to add to his tally.

Ovechkin has spent his entire NHL career with the Washington Capitals, leading them to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2018.

Known for his powerful shot and physical play, Ovechkin has led the league in goals multiple times and is a key figure in modern hockey. He is on track to challenge Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record.

13. Sidney Crosby: The Modern Superstar

Sidney Crosby, known as “Sid the Kid,” is one of the most skilled players of his generation.

Crosby has won three Stanley Cup championships with the Pittsburgh Penguins and has scored over 500 goals and 1,400 points.

Since his debut, his playmaking ability, vision, and leadership have made him one of the top players in the NHL.

Crosby has also won the Hart Trophy as the league’s MVP twice and is known for his clutch performances in high-pressure situations.

14. Ray Bourque: The Defensive Powerhouse

Ray Bourque is one of the highest-scoring defensemen in NHL history. He played 22 seasons, primarily with the Boston Bruins, scoring 410 goals and recording 1,579 points.

Bourque won five Norris Trophies as the league’s best defenseman and finally won a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in his final season.

Bourque’s number 77 jersey has been retired by both the Bruins and the Avalanche in recognition of his contributions to the game.

15. Paul Coffey: The Offensive Defenseman

Paul Coffey was an offensive defenseman known for his skating ability and scoring touch. He scored 396 goals and recorded 1,531 points in his career.

Coffey won four Stanley Cups, three with the Edmonton Oilers and one with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

His speed and offensive skills made him a unique player among defensemen. Coffey holds the record for most goals in a season by a defenseman with 48, achieved in the 1985-86 season.

16. Phil Esposito: The Goal-Scoring Center

Phil Esposito was a dominant center in the 1970s, leading the league in goals six times and points five times. He scored 717 goals and recorded 1,590 points in his career.

Esposito played for the Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins, and New York Rangers and was known for his goal-scoring ability and physical play.

Esposito was the first player in NHL history to score 70 goals in a single season.

17. Dominik Hasek: The Dominator’s Legacy

Dominik Hasek, known as “The Dominator,” is considered one of the best goaltenders in NHL history.

Hasek won six Vezina Trophies as the league’s best goalie and two Hart Trophies as the league’s MVP.

He led the Detroit Red Wings to two Stanley Cup championships and was known for his unorthodox style and incredible reflexes. Hasek also holds the record for the highest career save percentage in NHL history.

18. Mike Bossy: The Pure Goal Scorer

Mike Bossy was one of the purest goal-scorers in NHL history. He scored 573 goals in just 752 games, averaging over 50 goals per season.

Bossy played his entire career with the New York Islanders, leading them to four Stanley Cup championships in the 1980s.

His scoring ability and consistency made him a key figure in the Islanders’ dynasty. Bossy holds the record for most consecutive 50-goal seasons with nine.

19. Jean Ratelle: The Playmaking Gentleman

Jean Ratelle was a skilled center known for his playmaking ability and sportsmanship. In his career, he scored 491 goals and 1,267 points.

Ratelle played for the New York Rangers and Boston Bruins and was known for his smooth skating and offensive skills.

Ratelle was a two-time recipient of the Lady Byng Trophy, awarded for sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct.

20. Teemu Selanne: The Finnish Flash

Teemu Selanne, known as “The Finnish Flash,” was one of the most exciting players to watch. In his career, he scored 684 goals and 1,457 points.

Selanne won the Calder Trophy as Rookie of the Year and a Stanley Cup with the Anaheim Ducks.

His speed, scoring ability, and longevity made him a fan favorite. Selanne holds the record for most goals by a rookie with 76, set during the 1992-93 season.

Timeless Lessons from the Greatest NHL Legends

The most iconic NHL players show us that relentless dedication, elite skill, and unshakable perseverance can overcome any obstacle. Their remarkable careers provide powerful lessons that transcend the rink and resonate in all areas of life.

Hockey’s all-time greats exemplify how discipline, resilience, and passion fuel long-term success. Their legacy is a testament to what’s possible when talent meets tireless effort and unwavering focus.

Draw strength from their mindset, mirror their determination, and use their victories as motivation to push your own limits—on the ice and beyond.

Major League Baseball (MLB) has produced countless legends and unforgettable moments—but not every player earns fame for greatness. While stars rise through record-breaking feats, others are etched in history for costly mistakes and disappointing stats.

This article explores the careers of the most notorious players in MLB history, highlighting those whose time in the majors was defined by struggles, failures, and missed opportunities instead of triumph.

10 Worst Baseball Players

Let’s take a closer look at these players who, despite their best efforts, ended up making history for all the wrong reasons. Here are the ten most memorable underperformers in MLB history.

1. Bill Bergen

MLB is full of memorable and iconic moments, but there have been many underperformers who have left their mark on the sport — Bill Bergen being one of the most notable.

Bill Bergen, who played from 1901 to 1911, is often highlighted for his exceptionally low batting average of .170, the worst among major leaguers with over 2,500 at-bats.

Despite being a superb defensive catcher, his offensive capabilities were severely lacking. In 1909, he set a record of 45 consecutive at-bats without a hit, which stood for 102 years.

Bergen’s defense was highly regarded. He often ranked among the best catchers of his time in terms of assists and fielding percentage.

2. Mario Mendoza

Mario Mendoza, known for the “Mendoza Line,” a term used to describe a batting average below .200, played from 1974 to 1982.

Despite being a solid defensive player, his batting average was often below this threshold, finishing his career with a .215 average.

The term “Mendoza Line” was popularized in the late 1970s by his teammates and caught on in the media, symbolizing poor hitting.

Mendoza’s struggles at the plate made him a frequent subject of discussion when talking about underperforming hitters.

3. Al Chambers

Al Chambers, the first overall pick in the 1979 MLB Draft by the Seattle Mariners, endured a short and disappointing major league career, appearing in just 57 games between 1983 and 1985.

He finished his stint in the big leagues with a .208 batting average and only two home runs.

Chambers often reflected that he never received a true opportunity to prove himself at the MLB level, a frustration he voiced in interviews after retirement. His limited chances and minimal impact make his career one of the most notable busts for a number-one draft pick.

While MLB legends are celebrated for their lasting impact, it’s equally important to revisit players like Al Chambers, whose careers highlight the harsh realities of missed opportunities in professional baseball.

4. Jim Levey

Jim Levey’s career with the St. Louis Browns in the early 1930s is infamous for setting the record for the worst single-season Wins Above Replacement (WAR) in MLB history at -4.0.

Over his 440-game career, Levey had a batting average of .230 and managed to hit 11 home runs, but his performance got noticeably worse over time.

5. Bob Uecker

Bob Uecker, widely celebrated for his broadcasting career, had a less successful time as a player.

With a WAR of -1.0 and a batting average of .200 across 297 games, Uecker’s performance behind the plate did not mirror his subsequent success in the commentary box.

His time in the MLB was marked by his humor and self-deprecating commentary, which later defined his broadcasting style.

Uecker’s legacy in baseball is enriched by his humorous take on his playing days, often joking about his on-field struggles.

6. John Gochnaur

John Gochnaur’s career as a shortstop from 1901 to 1903 is marked by his extremely poor batting average of .187 and his defensive record, which included a staggering number of errors.

Over three seasons, he committed 146 errors and never hit a home run across 264 games. Gochnaur’s 1903 season with the Cleveland Naps is particularly infamous, during which he made 98 errors.

This unfortunate record contributes significantly to his reputation as one of the worst MLB players of all time.

7. Steve Jeltz

Steve Jeltz’s MLB career lasted from 1983 to 1990. During this time, he was known for his low batting average of .210 and minimal power, evidenced by just five home runs in over 1,700 at-bats.

His on-base percentage was relatively better at .308 due to his higher walk rate. Jeltz’s notable career moment was a two-homer game in 1989, a rarity given his overall power shortage.

Despite a long career, his offensive struggles and a negative overall WAR reflect his difficulties maintaining consistent performance at the major league level.

8. Kevin Jarvis

Kevin Jarvis, a pitcher whose MLB career lasted from 1994 to 2006, struggled with a high ERA of 6.03 over 780 innings.

His challenges on the mound were compounded by giving up many home runs and recording more losses than wins, which made his tenure as a pitcher tough.

These issues highlight Jarvis’s difficulties in finding consistent success in his roles.

9. Tommy Thevenow

Tommy Thevenow played as a shortstop in the 1920s and 1930s and is well-known for his extremely long home run drought.

After hitting three inside-the-park home runs in 1926, he never hit another over his career, spanning 3,614 plate appearances.

Despite this lack of power, Thevenow was kept in lineups primarily for his defensive skills, although injuries later hindered his career​.

10. Ralph “Putsy” Caballero

Putsy Caballero’s career lasted from 1944 to 1952. During this time, he recorded a batting average of .228 and minimal power, which contributed to his WAR of -2.5.

Known for being one of the youngest players in MLB history to appear at third base, Caballero’s career was marked by his youth but limited impact on the field.

His involvement in the 1950 World Series and various clutch pinch-hitting appearances were highlights of his otherwise underwhelming career​.

In summary, these players’ stories remind us how tough professional baseball can be. Not every player becomes a star, but each adds something unique to the history of Major League Baseball.

Their careers are full of personal challenges and moments where they had to keep trying, showing us how unpredictable and tough the sport can be.

Whether they’re known for not hitting many home runs or having trouble pitching, these players show the real challenges athletes face in the intense world of baseball.

Lessons to Learn from Baseball’s Underperformers

While some players hit it big and end up scoring lucrative MLB salaries, this list reminds us of the relentless unpredictability and the rigorous demands of pro baseball, which leads to some disappointing careers.

Remembered more for failures than triumphs, these players have still carved out a unique spot in MLB history.

From Bill Bergen’s strong defense overshadowed by his poor batting to Putsy Caballero’s fleeting moments of promise in an otherwise quiet career, each case highlights the unforgiving challenges and setbacks that define life in the big leagues.

The UFC has showcased countless fierce battles, where fighters endure extreme physical punishment. Over the years, some clashes have resulted in injuries so shocking they remain etched in UFC history.

This ranked breakdown spotlights the most gruesome injuries ever, exposing the brutal risks athletes face each time they enter the Octagon.

The Worst Injuries Ever Seen in the UFC

The UFC has seen injuries that redefine the sport’s intensity, pushing fighters to their limits. Here are the most unforgettable moments that showcase the risks of stepping into the octagon.

Silva’s Career-Changing Injury in Weidman Rematch

December 28, 2013, at Ultimate Fighting Championship 168 marks one of the most infamous moments in UFC history.

Anderson Silva’s attempt at reclaiming his title was cut short when Chris Weidman checked a kick, resulting in Silva breaking his leg. The injury required a titanium rod and a six-month medical suspension.

Silva’s career was never the same after this injury​​​.

UFC Fight Night 16: Corey Hill’s Leg Injury

During UFC Fight Night 16 on December 10, 2008, Corey Hill faced a terrifying injury as his leg snapped, a moment that left fans in horror. This was one of the most memorable UFC matches in history.

UFC 180: Eye vs. Smith and the Burst Ear Incident

On November 15, 2014, at UFC 180, Jessica Eye landed a punch that caused Leslie Smith’s cauliflower ear to burst, leading to a doctor’s stoppage.

UFC 159: Jon Jones’ Toe Dislocation

Despite securing a dominant victory over Chael Sonnen at UFC 159 on April 27, 2013, Jon Jones suffered one of the most gruesome injuries in UFC history—a brutal toe dislocation. The injury was so severe that it went completely unnoticed until the adrenaline faded, leaving fans and commentators stunned.

This shocking moment highlights the unmatched resilience, warrior mentality, and pain tolerance of elite UFC fighters.

Frank Mir vs. Tim Sylvia: The Arm Snap

At UFC 48 on June 19, 2004, Frank Mir delivered a bone-chilling armbar to Tim Sylvia, snapping his forearm and showcasing the lethal submission skills present in UFC​.

The Eye Poke Incident in Browne-Mitrione Bout

During their fight on January 17, 2016, Matt Mitrione suffered a broken orbital bone due to repeated eye pokes from Travis Browne, highlighting the dangers even the simplest mistakes can pose in a fight​.

Unforgettable Night of Vicente Luque vs. Mike Perry

On August 10, 2019, a flying knee from Luque broke Perry’s nose and reshaped it literally. This injury is a bloody testament to the violence and unpredictability of mixed martial arts​.

Check out our thoughts on a possible Sean Strickland vs Jake Paul UFC fight.

Overeem vs. Rozenstruick Fight: Worst Facial Injury

December 7, 2019, saw one of the worst facial injuries as Alistair Overeem’s lip was horrifically split by Jairzinho Rozenstruick’s punch, a sight that is hard to forget for those who witnessed it​​.

Joanna Jedrzejczyk’s Hematoma at UFC 248

March 8, 2020, at UFC 248, gave us the greatest women’s UFC fight that left Joanna Jedrzejczyk with a massive forehead hematoma, a stark visual of the battle scars that come with the sport​.

Chris Weidman’s Fateful Leg Injury

Ironically, on April 24, 2021, at UFC 261, Chris Weidman suffered a leg break similar to that of Anderson Silva’s, in a twist of fate that sent shockwaves through the UFC community​.

UFC’s Toughest Battles and Unbreakable Fighter Resilience

The UFC has witnessed some of the most unforgettable and horrible injuries in sports history.

These harrowing moments reveal the severe physical toll UFC fighters withstand inside the Octagon and the relentless mental toughness required at the sport’s highest level.

While their resilience inspires fans worldwide, such devastating injuries emphasize the urgent need for stronger safety measures and stricter regulations in combat sports.

Hockey’s high-speed, hard-hitting action makes it one of the most thrilling sports to watch.

But behind the excitement lies a history of dangerous, often devastating injuries. In this article, we spotlight the most shocking injuries in hockey history, revealing the physical toll on players and how evolving safety measures aim to protect the game’s future.

Most Devastating Injuries in Hockey History

Celebrated for its relentless speed and bone-crushing physicality, hockey has also witnessed some of the most horrifying injuries that reshaped the sport and altered players’ lives forever.

From life-threatening neck wounds to brutal, career-ending collisions, these incidents tested human limits and sparked crucial changes in safety standards across the league.

In this in-depth report, we explore the most shocking injuries in hockey history—along with the powerful stories of survival, comeback, and lasting reform they triggered.

Clint Malarchuk: Neck Injury That Changed Hockey

On March 22, 1989, Clint Malarchuk, the Buffalo Sabres’ goalie, suffered one of the most horrifying injuries ever seen in professional sports. A skate blade from an opposing player accidentally sliced his carotid artery, leading to a life-threatening situation on the ice. The quick actions of the team’s athletic trainer, who manually pinched the artery closed, are credited with saving Malarchuk’s life. This incident brought about a mandate for goalies to wear neckguards, forever changing safety standards in the history of hockey.

Richard Zednik: Near-Fatal Injury

Similar to Malarchuk’s accident, Richard Zednik of the Florida Panthers experienced a severe neck laceration during a game on February 10, 2008. A teammate’s skate blade accidentally cut his external carotid artery, leading to immediate and profuse bleeding. Zednik’s swift skate to the bench and subsequent medical attention saved his life, highlighting the dangers players face every time they step onto the ice.

Steve Moore: The Career-Ending Injury

On March 8, 2004, Steve Moore of the Colorado Avalanche was attacked from behind by Todd Bertuzzi of the Vancouver Canucks, resulting in a pile-up that left Moore with three fractured vertebrae in his neck and a concussion. This assault ended Moore’s professional hockey career and led to legal action, raising serious questions about violence and retribution in the sport.

Bryan Berard: Eye Injury That Nearly Ended a Career

Bryan Berard, a promising defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs, suffered a catastrophic eye injury on March 11, 2000. An opponent’s stick accidentally struck him in the eye, severely damaging his vision and almost ending his career. Despite the grim prognosis, Berard underwent several surgeries and returned to play in the NHL, showcasing an incredible determination and love for the game.

Ted Green: Skull Fracture That Shocked Everyone

In a preseason game in 1969, Ted Green of the Boston Bruins engaged in a stick-swinging duel with Wayne Maki of the St. Louis Blues. The altercation resulted in Green sustaining a major skull fracture, which sidelined him for an entire season. This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked aggression on the ice.

Erik Karlsson: Overcoming an Achilles Tendon Slice

Erik Karlsson, a defenseman for the Ottawa Senators, had his Achilles tendon sliced by a skate blade during a game in 2013. The injury required surgery and extensive rehabilitation, but Karlsson made a remarkable return to the ice, continuing to perform at an elite level.

The Most Gruesome Injuries in Hockey and Their Lasting Consequences

These unforgettable incidents expose the intense physical punishment endured by the sport’s most resilient athletes.

The determination of players who suffer devastating injuries and fight to return highlights hockey’s raw toughness and deep-rooted camaraderie.

Their stories reveal the high-stakes reality of professional sports while spotlighting advances in sports medicine and the evolution of safety standards sparked by these traumatic events.

In global sports, athletes chase both championship triumphs and massive contracts that showcase their skill, drive, and impact on the industry.

By 2025, the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL’s top stars are smashing salary records, reflecting the skyrocketing market power of elite performers in major leagues.

List of Highest-Paid Athletes

Let’s dive into the details of the athletes topping the earnings charts in 2025 and the standout contracts driving their success.

Dak Prescott: NFL’s Highest-Paid Player

As of 2025, Dak Prescott, the quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, is the highest-paid NFL athlete.

Prescott signed a record-breaking contract extension worth $160 million over four years, with a whopping $126 million guaranteed. His average annual salary of $60 million makes him the highest-paid player in NFL history.

This extension was finalized just before the 2025 season, securing Prescott’s future with the Cowboys and emphasizing the immense value top-tier quarterbacks hold in the league.

Prescott’s consistent performance, including leading the Cowboys to multiple playoff appearances, underscores his importance to the franchise and justifies the historic deal​.

Shohei Ohtani: MLB’s Highest-Paid Player

Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers is the highest-paid athlete in Major League Baseball.

Ohtani signed a groundbreaking 10-year, $700 million contract, averaging $70 million annually, the largest in North American sports history.

This contract reflects Ohtani’s exceptional dual-threat ability as a pitcher and a hitter. Since his MLB debut in 2018, Ohtani has won multiple awards, including the American League Rookie of the Year and two MVP awards.

His rare skills and consistent performance made him extremely valuable, leading to this record-breaking contract.

Stephen Curry: NBA’s Highest-Paid Player

Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors is the highest-paid athlete in the NBA for 2024.

Curry, a transformative player in the league, signed a four-year, $215 million extension in August 2021, which will see him earn an average annual salary of $55.76 in this 2025 season.

The point guard followed his stellar performance in the Olympics with a further 62.6 million, one-year contract extension with Golden State.

This extension ensures Curry’s presence with the Warriors, a team he has led to multiple championships, until the 2026-2027 season.

Curry’s contract reflects his huge value to the team on and off the court, especially due to his role in changing the game with his incredible three-point shooting​.

Auston Matthews Becomes NHL’s Top-Earning Star

Auston Matthews secures his spot as the NHL’s highest-paid player with a four-year contract extension from the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The deal, which took effect in the 2025 season, features an annual average value of $13.25 million—setting a new salary benchmark in the league.

Boasting accolades like the Hart Trophy and two Rocket Richard Trophies, Mathews continues to be a dominant force for the Leafs​ and hopes to be a future NHL all-time great.

Top-Paid Athletes Redefining Worth in Pro Sports

These icons dominate league earnings, landing record contracts that highlight their unmatched talent and impact on winning franchises.

Dak Prescott, Shohei Ohtani, Stephen Curry, and Auston Matthews lead 2025’s list, setting new standards for athlete compensation.

Their landmark deals showcase performance, influence, and vital roles in shaping the success of elite teams.