Hockey is one of the fastest and most exciting sports in the world. Over the years, many great players have wowed fans with their speed, skill, and power. But who are the best of the best? In this article, we rank the top 10 hockey players of all time based on skill, records, championships, and overall impact on the game.
Whether you are a new fan or a hockey expert, this list will give you a deeper appreciation for the legends of the rink.
1. Wayne Gretzky – “The Great One”
There is no doubt who tops the list. Wayne Gretzky is widely known as the greatest hockey player of all time. He holds more than 60 NHL records, including most goals (894), assists (1,963), and points (2,857). Gretzky won four Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers and earned nine Hart Trophies as the league’s MVP.
What made Gretzky special wasn’t just his stats, but his vision and hockey IQ. He could see plays before they happened and made his teammates better.
2. Mario Lemieux – A Natural Talent
Mario Lemieux had everything — size, skill, and smarts. Standing at 6’4″, he was a powerhouse with soft hands. Lemieux scored 690 goals in just 915 games and led the Pittsburgh Penguins to two Stanley Cups.
Despite battling cancer and injuries, he returned to the NHL and still performed at an elite level. His comeback story inspired millions and proved his greatness.
3. Bobby Orr – The Game Changer
Bobby Orr changed how defensemen played hockey. Before Orr, defensemen mostly stayed back. But Orr rushed with the puck, scored goals, and created plays. He won eight Norris Trophies (best defenseman) and three Hart Trophies.
Orr’s most famous moment? Flying through the air after scoring the Stanley Cup-winning goal in 1970. A true icon.
4. Gordie Howe – “Mr. Hockey”
Gordie Howe played professional hockey across five decades. He was tough, skilled, and a born leader. Howe had 801 NHL goals and was known for his physical style of play. The term “Gordie Howe Hat Trick” (a goal, an assist, and a fight) was named after him.
He played until he was 52, showing his love and passion for the game.
5. Sidney Crosby – The Modern Great
Sidney Crosby entered the NHL with huge expectations—and he delivered. He led the Pittsburgh Penguins to three Stanley Cups and won two Olympic gold medals for Canada. Crosby is known for his leadership, strong two-way play, and incredible hands.
Still playing at a high level, Crosby is one of the most complete players the game has ever seen.
6. Alexander Ovechkin – The Goal Machine
Alexander Ovechkin may go down as the greatest goal scorer in NHL history. As of now, he has scored over 800 goals and is chasing Gretzky’s all-time record. Ovechkin won the Stanley Cup in 2018 with the Washington Capitals and is a three-time MVP.
His powerful slapshot and fiery personality have made him a fan favorite for nearly two decades.
7. Jaromir Jagr – The Ageless Wonder
Jaromir Jagr played in the NHL for over two decades, scoring 766 goals and adding more than 1,900 points. Known for his incredible puck control and strength, Jagr played for multiple teams but shined brightest with the Penguins.
Even after leaving the NHL, he continued to play professionally in Europe, showing his deep love for hockey.
8. Jean Béliveau – The Gentleman Leader
Jean Béliveau was class and grace on and off the ice. He won 10 Stanley Cups as a player with the Montreal Canadiens and was the team captain for many years. Béliveau scored 507 goals and was admired for his leadership and sportsmanship.
His legacy continues in Montreal and across the hockey world.
9. Patrick Roy – The King in the Crease
Goaltenders don’t often get the spotlight, but Patrick Roy earned his place among the greats. He won four Stanley Cups and was known for his clutch performances in big games. Roy was the first goalie to really use the butterfly style, changing how the position is played today.
He won the Conn Smythe Trophy (playoff MVP) three times, more than any other player.
10. Connor McDavid – The Future of Hockey
Connor McDavid is already considered the fastest and most skilled player in the NHL today. At just 28 years old (as of 2025), he has won multiple scoring titles and MVP awards. His speed, vision, and creativity are unmatched in today’s game.
Many believe McDavid could one day challenge Gretzky’s legacy. Time will tell, but he’s already on the path to greatness.
Final Thoughts
Ranking the greatest hockey players of all time is never easy. Every era has its stars, and every player brought something unique to the ice. But these ten legends not only dominated in their careers — they also shaped the game into what it is today.
From Gretzky’s brilliance to McDavid’s electric speed, hockey continues to thrill fans worldwide. Whether you’re new to the sport or a lifelong fan, these names are worth remembering — and watching again and again.
Want More?
If you enjoyed this list, share it with your hockey-loving friends. And don’t forget to follow your favorite players this season — the next legend could be skating the ice right now.
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