Hockey has a long history filled with legendary players whose skill, dedication, and passion have shaped the sport.
From record-breaking performances to game-changing moments, these athletes have redefined what it means to excel on the ice.
Their contributions have not only earned them a place in NHL history but also continue to inspire new generations of players and fans alike.
Let’s take a closer look at the 20 greatest hockey players of all time and their lasting impact on the game.
- Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One,” holds numerous records, including the most goals and points in NHL history.
- Gordie Howe, “Mr. Hockey,” played 26 seasons and was renowned for his toughness and scoring ability.
- Bobby Orr revolutionized the defenseman position with his offensive skill and won eight Norris Trophies.
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.
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6. Jean Beliveau: The Elegant Leader
Jean Beliveau was a center for the Montreal Canadiens and is celebrated for his leadership and skill. In his career, Beliveau scored 507 goals and 1,219 points, leading the Canadiens to 10 Stanley Cup championships.
He was known for his elegance on the ice, sportsmanship, and ability to perform in crucial moments.
Beliveau also served as the Canadiens’ captain for a record 10 seasons, showcasing his leadership both on and off the ice.
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.
What We Can Learn from Hockey’s Greatest Players
These hockey legends have shown what can be achieved with skill, hard work, and passion. Their stories remind us that greatness is possible in any field.
Let their dedication and achievements inspire you to reach your own goals, both on and off the ice. Embrace the spirit of these icons and strive for excellence in everything you do.
