As The Hockey News celebrates its 80th anniversary, the publication has unveiled the definitive ranking of the NHL’s top 80 players entering the 2026-27 season. The list, compiled by the publication’s digital editorial team, culminates in the announcement of the top 10, a group that highlights both established legends and the explosive rise of the league’s newest superstars.
Sitting atop the throne remains the undisputed king of the modern era: Connor McDavid. Despite the Edmonton Oilers’ continued pursuit of a Stanley Cup, McDavid’s individual resume—featuring six Art Ross Trophies and three Hart Trophies—keeps him at the pinnacle of the sport. The 29-year-old remains the standard against which all other talent is measured, cementing his status as the game’s pre-eminent competitor.
Rounding out the top three are a pair of Colorado Avalanche superstars who continue to redefine their respective positions. Nathan MacKinnon claims the No. 2 spot, fueled by four consecutive 110-point campaigns and an unmatched intensity. Just behind him at No. 3 is Cale Makar, whose Conn Smythe and Norris Trophy pedigree confirm his place as the world’s most dominant defenseman.
The remainder of the top 10 showcases a fascinating mix of offensive firepower and defensive brilliance. Nikita Kucherov, at 33 years old, holds firm at No. 4, proving that his elite playmaking and championship pedigree remain essential to the Tampa Bay Lightning. He is followed closely at No. 5 by San Jose’s burgeoning icon, Macklin Celebrini. The 20-year-old has experienced a meteoric rise, highlighted by a stellar 115-point performance last season and a standout showing for Team Canada at the 2026 Olympics.
The list’s defensive depth is bolstered by Quinn Hughes at No. 6, who brings unparalleled offensive creativity to the Minnesota Wild, and Columbus stalwart Zach Werenski, who arrives at No. 8 following his first career Norris Trophy win. Between them sits Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl at No. 7, a versatile offensive force with a trophy case that includes both the Hart and Art Ross honors.
Rounding out the top 10 are two perennial stars: Boston Bruins captain David Pastrnak at No. 9, recognized for his consistency as one of the league’s deadliest snipers, and Winnipeg Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck at No. 10. While Hellebuyck faced a difficult 2025-26 campaign, his status as a three-time Vezina winner and his gold-medal performance at the 2026 Olympics secure his place among the league’s elite.
As the 2026-27 season drops the puck, this ranking serves as the starting point for the inevitable debates regarding the state of the game. While rankings are inherently subjective, these 10 athletes represent the gold standard of professional hockey today. The Hockey News invites fans to weigh in on the list as the season unfolds, continuing a tradition of discourse that has defined the publication for eight decades.
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